Playa Tortuguero

Playa Tortuguero Travel Guide

Tortuguero, located on Costa Rica’s northern Caribbean coast in the Limón province, is a unique and enchanting destination renowned for its extensive network of canals, lush rainforests, and, most notably, its role as a critical nesting ground for sea turtles. This guide provides an overview of the best activities, attractions, restaurants, and practical tips to help you make the most of your visit to Tortuguero.

Overview of Playa Tortuguero

Tortuguero, meaning "Land of Turtles," is a remote village that can only be accessed by boat or small aircraft. The region is famous for the Tortuguero National Park, which protects one of the most important nesting sites for green sea turtles in the Western Hemisphere. The park's rich biodiversity includes a variety of wildlife, such as monkeys, caimans, and hundreds of bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and ecotourists.

Activities to Do in Playa Tortuguero

Turtle Watching

The main attraction in Tortuguero is the opportunity to witness sea turtles nesting. From July to October, green sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs, while leatherback and hawksbill turtles nest from February to April. Guided night tours provide a respectful way to observe this incredible natural event.

Canal Tours

Explore the intricate network of canals and waterways that wind through Tortuguero National Park. Boat tours offer a chance to spot wildlife such as caimans, river otters, manatees, and a variety of birds. Kayak tours are also available for a more intimate and eco-friendly experience.

Hiking and Nature Walks

Tortuguero National Park features several hiking trails that allow you to explore its diverse ecosystems. Guided hikes offer the best chance to learn about the local flora and fauna, and to spot wildlife such as howler monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds.

Bird Watching

With over 300 bird species, Tortuguero is a bird watcher's paradise. Join a guided bird watching tour or explore on your own to spot toucans, herons, kingfishers, and the endangered great green macaw.

Visit the Tortuguero Village

Explore the small, charming village of Tortuguero. Visit the Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor Center to learn about the conservation efforts in the area, stroll through the local shops, and enjoy the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere.

Fishing

Tortuguero's rivers and canals offer excellent opportunities for fishing. Local guides can take you to the best spots for catching tarpon, snook, and other freshwater species. Sport fishing tours are also available for those looking to catch larger game fish.

Canopy Tours and Zip-lining

Experience the rainforest from a different perspective with a canopy tour or zip-lining adventure. Glide through the treetops and enjoy panoramic views of the lush landscape while spotting wildlife from above.

Attractions Close to Playa Tortuguero

Bribri Indigenous Reserve: Visit the Bribri Indigenous Reserve to learn about the culture, traditions, and lifestyle of the Bribri people. Guided tours provide insights into their customs, crafts, and sustainable farming practices.
Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve: The Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve, located near Tortuguero, is home to the Kekoldi Indigenous community. Tours offer a chance to learn about their traditional way of life, including medicinal plant knowledge and sustainable agriculture.
Jaguar Rescue Center: Located in nearby Playa Chiquita, the Jaguar Rescue Center is dedicated to the rehabilitation of injured and orphaned animals. Guided tours provide an up-close look at the center’s efforts to protect and release wildlife.
Waterfall Hikes: Explore the beautiful waterfalls in the area, such as the BriBri Waterfalls. Guided tours are available, offering the opportunity to swim in natural pools and enjoy the stunning scenery.
Kekoldi Indigenous Reserve: located near Tortuguero, is home to the Kekoldi Indigenous community. Tours offer a chance to learn about their traditional way of life, including medicinal plant knowledge and sustainable agriculture.

Best Restaurants in Playa Tortuguero

Koki Beach Restaurant & Bar: Known for its creative cocktails and delicious cuisine, Koki Beach offers a mix of Caribbean, Latin, and international dishes. The beachfront location and vibrant atmosphere make it a popular spot for both dining and socializing.
Bread & Chocolate: A favorite among locals and tourists, Bread & Chocolate is known for its hearty breakfasts, sandwiches, and homemade chocolates. The cozy café atmosphere and friendly service make it a great spot to start your day.
Café Viejo: offers a variety of delicious Italian pasta dishes, pizzas, and seafood. The warm, inviting ambiance and authentic flavors make it a must-visit for lovers of Italian cuisine.
Miss Lidia’s Place: is a charming restaurant offering a mix of Caribbean and Costa Rican cuisine. Try the traditional dishes like patacones (fried plantains), ceviche, and coconut curry. The warm ambiance and local flavors make it a must-visit.
Stashu’s Con Fusion: Known for its eclectic menu that blends Caribbean, Asian, and Latin flavors, Stashu’s Con Fusion offers a unique dining experience. The restaurant’s creative dishes and relaxed atmosphere make it a popular choice for dinner.

Pro Tips for Visiting Playa Tortuguero

Weather: The Caribbean side does not have a distinct dry season. However, there are periods with less rainfall, typically in February/March and September/October. Annually, the region receives about 141 inches of rain, with the wettest months being July, November, and December. Despite frequent showers, patches of sunshine often break through, illuminating the landscape. Most months have at least four to five hours of daily sunshine, except for July, which is the cloudiest and rainiest month. March and April are the sunniest months, offering more than five to six hours of sunshine per day.

Temperatures in the Caribbean weather region are relatively consistent year-round, ranging from 77 to 81 degrees Fahrenheit. The warmest months are May, June, and October, with daily highs averaging 88 degrees. The coolest daytime temperatures occur in January, February, July, and December, averaging 84 degrees. Nighttime temperatures are comfortably cool, ranging from 68 to 71 degrees.

Trade winds are common, helping to moderate the high humidity, which is a defining characteristic of the Caribbean weather region, the most humid in Costa Rica. Humidity levels are fairly consistent throughout the year. The least humid months are March and April, with humidity around 84 percent, while the rest of the year averages between 87 and 90 percent. The highest humidity, reaching 90 percent, coincides with the rainiest months of June, July, November, and December.
Transportation: Tortuguero is accessible by car or bus from San José, the capital city. The drive takes approximately 4 to 5 hours. Local taxis and bike rentals are available for getting around the town.

Tortuguero offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, cultural richness, and vibrant Caribbean charm. Whether you’re Turtle Watching the waves, exploring the rainforests, or enjoying the lively nightlife, Tortuguero promises an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.