The landscape at Tortuguero is dominated by a peculiar blend of coastal rainforest and wetlands. The 47,000-acre (19,000 ha) national park is packed with wildlife and unspoiled beauty lined by the Caribbean Sea.
Experts have identified 11 different habitats, 2000 plant species, 400 varieties of trees, 60 types of amphibians, 111 species of reptiles, 60 kinds of mammals and 30 species of freshwater fish. With all this diversity, it's no wonder Tortuguero is one of the most popular ecological destinations.
A large network of channels and lakes guide you through the heart of the jungle as monkeys, iguanas, aracarias, oropendolas, parrots and toucans fly overhead. Bird watching is an impressive experience with more than 300 avian species flying freely through the trees.
The park's beaches are visited by giant hawksbill, leatherback and green sea turtles that come ashore between February and October to lay their eggs. They come by the thousands guided only by their instinct and desire to continue the age-old tradition of nesting at this site.
Visitors are welcome to witness this miracle of life as long as they follow the rules. Baby turtles use the stars in the sky as points of reference and any other light source may confuse them and they may never reach the ocean. Also, the turtles can't be disturbed during the hatching process since it may hurt the fragile creatures.
The destructive hand of civilization has steered clear of the national park that can only be reached on a boat or plane. The winding waterways lead you on a two-hour journey through the quiet canals surrounded by the dense forest. Keep your eyes open and you'll spot caimans, turtles, crocodiles, frogs, bats, howler monkeys and manatees.
It rains most of the time at Tortuguero, up to 200 inches (500 cm) of rainfall per year, but this unique characteristic is what makes its ecosystem so rich and diverse. Bring a raincoat and don't let the intermittent showers dampen your trip.
Its namesake village is located on a narrow peninsula enclosed by the Caribbean Sea. Tours can be arranged at several eco-lodges that combine comfort with the natural surroundings. Adventure packages include transportation, lodging and meals.
Geographical Division 
