Tortuguero

Tortuguero is a village on a sandbar between the Caribbean Sea and a network of canals. There are no roads: drive to the La Pavona dock, park in a guarded lot and take a public boat.

Car logistics

The last 25–30 km from Cariari to La Pavona are gravel through banana plantations. Bring cash for parking and the boat, and plan your arrival around the boat schedule.

How the trip works

There’s no road into Tortuguero. You drive to La Pavona, about 3 hours from San José on paved roads with the last stretch on gravel. You leave the car in one of the guarded private lots, which charge a daily fee, and take a public boat for about an hour through the canals. Most lodges include transfers from San José, but driving yourself gives you flexibility for the rest of your trip.

Things to do

• Canal tours by canoe or small boat at dawn: caimans, monkeys, toucans and herons.
• Turtle nesting tours (green turtles mainly July–October): night tours are guided only and photos are restricted.
• Tortuguero National Park trails, with an entrance fee of about US$15–20.

Where to stay

You’ll stay either in the village (cheaper cabinas, walkable) or at all-inclusive lodges across the canal that include meals and tours. Lodges are roughly US$150–300 per person for 2 nights.

Practical tips

• Pack light: you’ll carry your bags on and off the boat.
• Bring cash; there are few ATMs, and they’re unreliable.
• Check the boat schedule the day before; the last departure from La Pavona is usually in the afternoon.

Top things to do in Tortuguero

• Canal boat and kayak toursEarly-morning wildlife tours through the canals.
• Turtle nesting night toursGreen turtles mainly July–October; guided tours only.
• Tortuguero National Park trailsShort jungle trails and beach.

Driving, parking & safety notes

• You'll leave your car for your whole stay — don't leave valuables in it.
• Check boat times the day before.