Tortuguero National Park
BY NAMUBAKHe Tortuguero National Park It is one of Costa Rica's most important natural gems. Covering 76,937 hectares, of which 50,284 are marine and 26,653 are terrestrial, this park is famous for its biodiversity and stunning landscapes.
In total the park has:
- Flora: 734 species of plants.
- Birds: 442 species of birds.
- Mammals: 138 species of mammals.
- Reptiles: 118 species of reptiles.
- Amphibians: 58 species of amphibians.
- Arthropods: 460 species of arthropods.
Where is Tortuguero National Park located?
In the province of Limón it is where the Tortuguero National Park is located . Specifically in the northeast of Costa Rican territory and is one of the main tourist icons of the country.
Climate of Tortuguero National Park
Tortuguero National Park is characterized by its tropical rainforest and very humid tropical forest . The average annual rainfall is 6,000 mm.
The rainiest months are July and December, while the least rainy are March, April and October. average temperature annual temperature ranges between 25°C and 30°C.
Flora and Fauna of Tortuguero National Park
Species Protection
- Sea Turtles: It protects nesting beaches of four species of sea turtles: green (Chelonia mydas), leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea), hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata) and loggerhead (Caretta caretta).
- Endangered Species: It protects important populations of endangered species, such as the manatee (Trichechus manatus) and the jaguar.
- Yolillal Ecosystem: Protects the ecosystem called Yolillal (Raphia taedigera).
Featured Species in Tortuguero National Park
Green Turtle (Chelonia mydas)
The green turtle This is one of the main reasons for the creation of Tortuguero National Park. This species' nesting grounds are one of the most important in the world. The nesting season for these turtles is a natural spectacle that attracts numerous visitors and scientists interested in the conservation of this endangered species.
Great Green Macaw (Ara ambigua)
The The great green macaw , also known as the green macaw, is an endangered bird species that has seen a significant recovery in its population thanks to conservation efforts in Tortuguero. This park is one of the main nesting and feeding sites for these majestic birds, distinguished by their vibrant green plumage.
Caiman (Caiman cocodilus)
He caiman It is a species found along the Tortuguero canals. These reptiles can be observed sunbathing on the canal banks, providing visitors with a unique wildlife-watching experience.
Black Turtle (Rhinoclemmys funerea)
The black turtle It's a common river turtle species in Tortuguero. In the canals, you can see several of these turtles resting on floating logs, offering a fascinating glimpse of the park's aquatic life.
Jacana (Jacana jacana)
The The jacana , also known as the Jesus bird, is one of the most colorful birds found in Tortuguero's canals. Its long legs and toes allow it to walk on the floating vegetation, providing a spectacular view for birdwatchers.
Northern Pintail (Anhinga anhinga)
He The needle duck , known for its diving abilities, is a common sight in Tortuguero's canals. This bird can be observed drying its wings on branches after diving in search of fish, standing out for its unique behavior and appearance.
Red and Blue Frog (Oophaga pumilio)
The red and blue frog It's a common amphibian in Tortuguero, known for its striking territorial behavior. These tiny frogs, with their bright red and blue colors, are a visual delight and a symbol of the park's biodiversity.
Violet Trogon (Trogon caligatus)
He violet trogon This is a bird species that can be observed along the park's trails. With its vibrant plumage, it is often found in trail gaps, offering visitors a wonderful opportunity for birdwatching.
Colorado Monkey (Ateles geoffroyi) and White-faced Monkey (Cebus capucinus)
He red monkey and the White-faced monkeys are two of the most striking primate species in Tortuguero. These monkeys are not only fascinating to observe for their social behavior, but they also play a crucial role as seed dispersers, helping to maintain the health and diversity of the rainforest.
Tortuguero National Park History
Tortuguero National Park was declared a national park on September 24, 1970. Its boundaries have been modified several times to incorporate more territory and better protect marine and terrestrial ecosystems. It originally covered 64,701 hectares, but was expanded to its current size in 1998.
Creation and Surface
- Creation date: September 24, 1970
- Surface: 76,937 hectares (50,284 marine and 26,653 terrestrial)
The idea to create the park came from a group of residents and small-scale fishermen from the communities of Bahía Ballena and Piñuelas, concerned about the conservation of marine resources.
The creation of the park has as main objective to protect marine-coastal ecosystems such as mangroves, estuaries, sandy beaches, cliffs and islets.
Tortuguero National Park Hours and Fees
Schedules
- Cuatro Esquinas and Jalova Sector: 6 am – 12 noon and 1 pm – 4 pm
- Tortuguero Hill Trail: 8 am – 3:30 pm
Entrance Fees
- Adult resident: ₡ 1130 colones
- Resident child: ₡ 565 colones
- Non-resident adult: $16.95 USD
- Non-resident child: $5.65 USD
Tickets can be purchased through the online reservation system. Debit and credit cards are accepted.
Sea Turtle Observation Program
Ecological Management of Tourism
He Sea Turtle Observation Program It is a fundamental tool for the ecological management of tourism in Tortuguero National Park. This program allows for the proper management of the high visitation of the beach during the sea turtle nesting season, which runs from June to October.
Alliance with Local Organizations
The park partners with local organizations to establish turtle trackers, highly trained individuals who detect turtles as they emerge from the sea. These ecological measures prevent visitors from scaring away turtles while walking on the beach. Instead, visitors are stationed at holding stations where they receive valuable information about the turtles until they begin the nesting process, at which point they can be observed.
Importance of Checking the Season
It is crucial to verify the opening of the season to confirm the presence of turtles, as ecological dynamics can vary.
Jaguar Land Trail
Route and Features
He Jaguar Land Trail It is a 2.5 km linear path that runs parallel to the beach in Tortuguero National Park. This trail is especially popular during turtle nesting season. It is clearly marked with beach entrances every 100 meters, numbered 37 to 60.
Flora and Fauna Observation
During the nesting season, you can see turtle tracks and nests. Additionally, you can encounter various animal species along this trail, such as hawks, monkeys, and peacocks, as well as a large number of dragonflies and butterflies.
Water Trails
Canoe, Electric Motor and Kayak Tours
Caño Chiquero-Mora Trail
He Caño Chiquero-Mora Trail It's a 2.3-km trail exclusively for small, non-polluting boats. The vegetation is dense and tall, and you can occasionally spot the tolomuco. Near 1,900 meters, the trail splits into Caño Chiquero and Caño Mora.
Motorboat Tours
Tortuguero River Trail
He Tortuguero River Trail This 4.3-km trail serves as the gateway to the canal sector of Tortuguero National Park. Along this route, you can observe a variety of aquatic birds, amphibians, reptiles, and numerous poponjoche trees, known for their large flowers and fruits.
Caño Harold Trail
He Caño Harold Trail It's a 3.5-km route along a wide, calm canal, ideal for animal watching. Secondary forest predominates, and coconut and cocoa trees are common. Reptiles such as turtles and alligators abound.
Caño Palma Trail
He Caño Palma Trail It is 5.1 km long and is the only one not accessible through the Tortuguero River, but rather through Laguna Penitencia, located next to Cerro Tortuguero in the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge. This narrow channel with dense vegetation is home to numerous aquatic birds.
Tortuguero National Park Regulations
To protect sea turtles, their nests, and eggs, it is critical that visitors follow these regulations:
Compliance with the Regulation
- Respect the Public Use Regulations of the Park: By following established standards, we help preserve this natural environment.
- Visiting Hours: It is crucial to respect the park's visiting hours to minimize the impact on the ecosystem.
- Park Ranger Instructions: Park rangers are there to protect the park and its visitors. Always follow their directions.
Care of the Environment
- Stay on Trails: Do not leave established trails to avoid damaging flora and fauna.
- Waste Management: Do not bring trash into the park and pick up any waste you find.
- Beach Access Restriction: To protect sea turtles, beach access is restricted from March 1 to October 31, from 6 p.m. to 6 a.m.
Prohibitions
- Drugs, Stimulants and Alcohol: It is prohibited to enter the park with drugs, stimulants or alcoholic beverages.
- Sports Activities and Sound Equipment: Sports activities and the use of sound equipment are not permitted.
- Bonfires and Weapons: No bonfires or weapons of any kind are permitted.
- Plant and Animal Abuse: Plants and animals are living beings; do not mistreat or feed them.
- Fishing and Pets: Fishing and pets are not allowed.
Recommendations for Visitors
To enjoy your visit to Tortuguero National Park safely and responsibly, follow these recommendations:
Personal Care
- Care of Belongings: Always keep your belongings safe.
- Appropriate Clothing: Bring light clothing, a hat or cap, insect repellent, and sunscreen.
- Appropriate Footwear: The use of rubber boots is recommended for walking in rocky and wet areas.
- Hydration: Keep your hydration levels up, especially during long hikes.
Water Precautions
- Bathing in the Sea or Lagoons: Swimming in the sea or lagoons is not recommended due to dangerous currents and the presence of passing boats and animals.
By following these regulations and recommendations, your visit to Tortuguero National Park will be safer and more environmentally friendly. Enjoy the biodiversity and natural wonders this park has to offer.