Tortuguero, Costa Rica, is often called the Amazon of Central America. It is a protected and essential national park. It offers incredible nature and biodiversity, adventurous tours, and stunning beaches. This magical part of Costa Rica blew us away. To name only a few reasons, you can’t miss visiting Tortuguero when traveling in Costa Rica.

Tortuguero was widely destroyed by logging until Costa Rica first declared the area a national park in 1970. Since then, the rainforest has recovered from the destruction. Today Tortuguero, Costa Rica, is home to an incredible biodiversity of plants and animals. For more than 60 species of mammals, including the Jaguar, Sloths, Howler, and Spider Monkeys, 111 species of reptiles, including crocodiles, Caimans, and Iguanas, and more than 300 species of birds, Tortuguero is their home. Besides, the beaches of Tortuguero are a critical nesting site for four different species of turtles. When you book a tour of the national park, the entrance fee is 15 USD per person.

If you visit Tortuguero Costa between July and October, you will get the chance to see the Turtles nesting at the beach. There are several different species of Turles nesting here which is super exciting. The most popular are the impressive Leatherback Turtles, which are up to 2 meters long and 900 kilograms. Those massive Turtles are, unfortunately, highly endangered. That’s why protected areas for them to nest, like Tortuguero, are essential for survival. We hope we will get to see those beautiful animals next time.

Tortuguero wasn’t on our radar when we planned our trip to Costa Rica. But we are very grateful that we finally made it there anyway. It got one of our favorite experiences. This area is famous for eco-tourism, what we love, and is, in our opinion, the future of travel.