Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a spectacularly isolated and wild destination on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, often referred to as the "Amazon of Costa Rica." This region is defined by a dense network of freshwater canals and lagoons cutting through dense, flooded rainforests. The area’s biggest draw is the Tortuguero National Park, globally recognized as one of the most critical nesting sites for the endangered Green Sea Turtle, along with Leatherback and Hawksbill turtles. Exploring the canals by canoe or small boat reveals caimans, river otters, manatees, and an incredible diversity of birdlife. The village itself is a laid-back, car-free Afro-Caribbean community. Gastronomy here reflects Caribbean roots, featuring rice and beans cooked in coconut milk, fresh fish, and spicy panbón. There are no large resorts, only eco-lodges integrated into the jungle. Getting to Tortuguero is an adventure in itself, as there are no roads. Visitors must fly in on a small domestic flight or take a scenic, hour-long boat ride from La Pavona or Moín. While the general dry season in Costa Rica is December to April, Tortuguero is very rainy year-round. The absolute best time to visit is from July to October, which aligns with both the peak turtle nesting season and a mini dry season on the Caribbean side.

Nearby cities

Guápiles

The main town of the Pococi canton, serving as a primary commercial and transit point on the route to the Caribbean coast.

Siquirres

A bustling town in the Limon province, positioned between the highlands and the Caribbean coast.

Guácimo

An agricultural town in Limon, known for its lush surroundings and its role in the banana industry.

Matina

A town in Limon, primarily driven by large-scale banana and pineapple production.

Cahuita

Cahuita is a laid-back Caribbean coastal town in Costa Rica, famous for its stunning national park and vibrant Afro-Caribbean culture.

Bribri

The administrative center of Talamanca, reflecting the strong indigenous presence and culture of the region near the border with Panama.

Puerto Viejo de Talamanca

A vibrant coastal town famous for its eclectic Caribbean culture, reggae music, world-class surf, and proximity to wildlife sanctuaries.

San Juan de Nicaragua (Greytown)

Historically significant port town on the Caribbean coast.

Turrialba

Nestled in a fertile valley, this city is famous for its proximity to the Turrialba Volcano and various river rafting destinations.

Ojochal

Ojochal is a culinary haven nestled in Costa Rica's southern Pacific jungle.

Juan Viñas

A historic agricultural town known for its extensive coffee plantations and scenic rural landscapes in the Cartago province.

San Isidro de El General

The largest city in the southern region of Costa Rica, acting as a major commercial and agricultural hub for the Perez Zeledon area.

Drake Bay

Drake Bay is a spectacularly remote village on the northern Osa Peninsula, offering exclusive eco-lodges, pristine beaches, and world-cla…

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Desembocadura de Río Grande

Municipality at the mouth of the Río Grande de Matagalpa.

Uvita

Known for the 'Whale Tail' rock formation and the Marino Ballena National Park, it is a key destination for whale watching and nature lov…

History & landmarks

Sloth Sanctuary of Costa Rica

The world's first sloth-only rescue center.

Jaguar Rescue Center

A rescue center for injured and orphaned wild animals near Puerto Viejo.

Tortuguero National Park

The 'Amazon of Costa Rica', famous for nesting sea turtles.

Corcovado National Park

One of the most biologically intense places on Earth on the Osa Peninsula.

Pearl Lagoon

The largest coastal lagoon in Nicaragua, known for its vibrant Creole culture.

Nature

Reventazon River

An important river for hydroelectric power and popular for water sports.

Pacuare River

World-famous for white-water rafting through breathtaking tropical gorges.

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Grande de Matagalpa River

One of the longest and most important rivers crossing the country from west to east.

Prinzapolka River

A long river connecting the mining region to the Caribbean coast.

More places

Cimarron Culture

The history of escaped slaves (Cimarrones) who found refuge in the Talamanca mountains, preserving their own culture.

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Old Railway of La Palma

Remains of the old 'Jungle Train' to the Atlantic coast, which was crucial for the banana export industry.

Puerto Viejo Shipwreck

A sunken cargo ship near Puerto Viejo that has become an artificial reef and a popular diving spot.

Historic Gandoca-Manzanillo

This Caribbean coastal region has a rich Afro-Caribbean history, shaped by fishermen and cocoa farmers.

Bribri Cocoa Tradition

The Bribri cocoa tradition links cacao to indigenous knowledge on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica.

Cerro Chirripo

The highest mountain in Costa Rica, offering views of both the Pacific and Caribbean.

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Puerto Matina

Smaller port on the Caribbean coast for local goods.

Finca 6 Stone Spheres

An archaeological park showcasing the mysterious pre-Columbian stone spheres of Costa Rica.