Nestled in the midst of breathtaking natural beauty lies Tortuguero National Park, a magnificent national forest spanning an impressive distance of 193 miles. This lush, green haven is made up of a diverse array of ecosystems and wildlife, and is a true testament to the wonders of nature. While it may be difficult to believe, only a mere one percent of this stunning forest is accessible to tourists, making it all the more special for those who are lucky enough to experience it.
Located in the heart of this incredible national forest, you will find the charming village of Tortuguero. This village and its surrounding areas are situated in the midst of the breathtaking wetlands of the Caribbean Sea. What sets Tortuguero apart from other national parks is its unique location. With the ocean on one side and the river on the other, this provides a truly unique experience.
I embarked on the 3 day / 2 night package that includes an exciting day of rafting on the magnificent Pacuare River. This itinerary is a great balance between leisure and adventure as well as provides the perfect amount of time for exploring the region.
Things To Do in Tortuguero National Park
From the Canal Tour to the infamous Jaguar Walk, there are a variety of things to do to satisfy every explorer’s interests. If you plan on visiting Cerro Tortuguero and the Jaguar Walk, I recommend exploring these areas on your own. This can help save money on guided tours. Lastly, if you plan on visiting between June and October, I suggest witnessing the incredible phenomenon of Green Turtle hatching–it’s an experience you don’t want to miss out on.
How to get to Tortugeuro National Park
The journey to the village from the dock is an experience in itself, taking approximately ninety minutes. As you traverse the serene canals, you’ll be struck by the beauty of the surrounding landscape. The gentle sway of the waves adds to the tranquil atmosphere, making it a truly delightful ride. If you prefer a hassle-free experience, you can opt for a paid tour.
I took advantage of this and have no regrets as everything was set up and the boat was already waiting for me. This allowed me to truly enjoy the breathtaking views without worrying about any logistical issues.
Canal Tour
This is an amazing tour that takes you on a breathtaking journey into the heart of the forest. You will get an up-close and personal view of the natural wonders that abound in this mesmerizing location. The canal tour starts at 6 am and lasts about 3 hours. This is plenty of time to immerse yourself in this awe-inspiring experience. Imagine being able to observe the wildlife in their natural habitat without any disturbance, thanks to the electric motors that power the boat.
You’ll love the serene silence as you listen to the sound of nature unfolding around you. The added bonus is the tour guide is an expert working for a conservation organization. This means you get the privilege of being led by an individual with extensive knowledge of the environment and the wildlife. This is undoubtedly an extraordinary tour that will leave you with memories to last a lifetime.
Tortuguero Conservation Efforts
During our fascinating adventure into the wild, we were privileged to observe and appreciate the captivating beauty of various species in their natural habitat. It was an exhilarating experience to witness sloths moving at their own leisurely pace, the vibrant colors of different bird species, the stoic presence of caimans, and the echoing sound of howling monkeys. What makes this experience even more meaningful is that that these captivating creatures are protected by an organization that demonstrates an unwavering commitment to their well-being.
It is apparent that the conservationists are passionate about wildlife and truly care about preserving the animals and their environment. Overall, my journey into the wild was an unforgettable experience that offered a glimpse into the profound beauty of nature and the critical work being done to preserve and protect it.
Black Sand Beach
The black sand beach, though not ideal for swimming due to the current, has its own fascinating beauty that is sure to captivate any visitor who is willing to explore its splendor. What’s even more exciting is that this beach lacks the boisterousness that characterizes beach resorts, making for a serene walk up and down the coast.
As you take your walk along the coastline, you will notice that there are no beach resorts or chairs. However, there’s an abundance of nature’s gifts such as logs that provide an excellent sitting and resting spot, allowing you to bask in the glory of nature. Moreover, the black sand that you’ll observe on the beach is nothing short of a miracle, which is a result of the Cerro Tortuguero volcano’s inactive state, making the view on this mesmerizing beach even more enchanting.
Where to Eat in Tortuguero
Budda Café is an extraordinary location to witness an awe-inspiring sunset. With its breathtaking views, this spot is a must-visit for anyone looking for a stunning and peaceful ambiance. While one may argue that tourist prices apply here, you cannot deny that the experience is worth every penny.
Furthermore, if you are interested in exploring the local culinary delights, head down to the charming Soda spots for lunch. The food here is nothing short of delicious. Whether you’re seeking an incredible sunset view or scrumptious local cuisine, Budda Café and Soda are two excellent options to choose from.
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