Tortuguero River: Costa Rica's Wildlife Artery
Explore Costa Rica's Amazon: A river journey through Tortuguero's wildlife-rich canals and rainforest wonders.
The Tortuguero River, snaking through the heart of Tortuguero National Park, is the lifeblood of this unique Costa Rican ecosystem. Its waterways teem with diverse wildlife, offering unparalleled opportunities for ecotourism and exploration of the region's rich biodiversity.
A brief summary to Tortuguero River
- Pococí, Limón Province, CR
Local tips
- Bring binoculars for enhanced wildlife viewing along the riverbanks; the diverse ecosystem is teeming with hidden creatures.
- Opt for a smaller boat or canoe tour for a more intimate experience and access to narrower canals, increasing your chances of spotting wildlife.
- Visit during the dry season (February to April) for more comfortable conditions and better wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Purchase Tortuguero National Park tickets in advance online to avoid delays.
Getting There
-
Boat
Most travelers access the Tortuguero River via boat from the town of Tortuguero. From La Pavona: The most common access point is La Pavona. 1. Arrive at La Pavona, which has secure parking for approximately $10 per day. 2. Purchase a boat ticket directly from one of the boat operators; prices range from $5 to $10 per person. 3. The boat journey to Tortuguero takes 45 minutes to 2 hours, depending on river conditions. From Moín: Another option is to take a boat from Moín. 1. Arrange for a boat transfer from Moín to Tortuguero; this can be booked in advance with various tour operators. 2. The boat trip takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, offering wildlife viewing opportunities along the way. *Note: There are no ATMs in Tortuguero, so bring sufficient cash. Park entrance fee is $17 USD for adults and $5 USD for children.*
Discover more about Tortuguero River
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Tortutours
1.6 km
Discover the wonders of Costa Rica with Tortutours, your premier tour agency for unforgettable adventures and cultural experiences.
Tortuguero Adventures
1.6 km
Discover the rich biodiversity and breathtaking landscapes of Tortuguero with experiential tours from Tortuguero Adventures, your expert guide to Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Hotel Serendipity Tortuguero Adults Only
1.7 km
An adults-only retreat in Tortuguero, offering modern comfort and easy access to the area's stunning natural beauty and wildlife.
Hostal y Cabinas Tortuguero
1.7 km
Discover Tortuguero's natural beauty from this conveniently located and budget-friendly hostel, steps away from the national park.
La Taberna
1.7 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Taberna, a vibrant grill restaurant in Limón Province. Fresh seafood and grilled meats await!
Los Amigos Hotel
1.7 km
Experience comfort and convenience at Los Amigos Hotel in Pococí, your perfect starting point for exploring Costa Rica's Caribbean wonders.
Costa Rica Roots Tours
1.7 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica with expert-led tours and comfortable lodging at Costa Rica Roots Tours, your gateway to adventure in the tropics.
Cabinas Meryscar
1.7 km
Simple and affordable lodging in Pococí, Costa Rica, perfect for budget-conscious travelers exploring the region's natural wonders.
Hôtel Don Quichotte
1.8 km
Experience comfort and nature in Tortuguero at Hôtel Don Quichotte, your perfect eco-friendly retreat in Costa Rica.
Cabinas Balcon del Mar Tortuguero
1.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Tortuguero at Cabinas Balcon del Mar, your gateway to Costa Rica's natural wonders.
Rafa Enchu Tours
1.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Rafa Enchu Tours: A serene farmstay amidst lush landscapes and vibrant local culture in Tortuguero.
Soda La Culebra
1.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda La Culebra in Tortuguero. Fresh, local cuisine in a welcoming, budget-friendly setting.
El Muellecito
1.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at El Muellecito in Roxana, Limón Province, where fresh seafood and vibrant culture meet!
Asociación de Mujeres Guías de Tortuguero
1.8 km
Explore Tortuguero's natural wonders with knowledgeable local women guides. Experience authentic ecotourism and support community empowerment.
El Icaco
1.8 km
Beachfront comfort in Tortuguero, offering easy access to nature and wildlife in Costa Rica's Caribbean paradise.
Unmissable attractions to see
Tortuguero national park - Cuatro Esquinas sector
1.5 km
Discover the lush beauty and incredible wildlife of Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica, a paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Casa Cecropia
1.5 km
Discover the artisanal world of chocolate at Casa Cecropia in Tortuguero, where every bite tells a story of local cacao cultivation and craftsmanship.
Tortuguero Nature Native Guides
1.8 km
Discover the lush landscapes and vibrant wildlife of Tortuguero with expert guided tours through Costa Rica's stunning natural paradise.
Tortuguero
1.9 km
Explore the untouched beauty of Tortuguero, Costa Rica's serene island paradise, renowned for its wildlife and natural wonders.
Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center
2.4 km
Discover the wonders of sea turtle conservation at Tortuguero's Sea Turtle Conservancy Visitor's Center. Learn, engage, and protect!
Mawamba Lodge Tortuguero
2.8 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Mawamba Lodge in Tortuguero, where nature and adventure come together in a breathtaking eco-friendly oasis.
Sendero Cerro Tortuguero
6.5 km
Explore the breathtaking Sendero Cerro Tortuguero trail, where lush rainforests meet stunning Caribbean views in Costa Rica's captivating landscape.
Cerro del Tortuguero
6.7 km
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Cerro del Tortuguero, a majestic mountain peak in Costa Rica’s Limón Province, perfect for hiking and wildlife watching.
Parque Nacional Tortuguero
8.6 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity of Parque Nacional Tortuguero, a national park and turtle sanctuary in the heart of Costa Rica's lush rainforests.
La Pavona Jungle Expeditions & Boat Tours in to Tortuguero
9.6 km
Your jump-off point for exploring the canals and wildlife of Tortuguero National Park in Costa Rica's Limón Province.
Tortuguero National Park, Costa Rica
11.3 km
Explore the vibrant ecosystems and stunning wildlife of Tortuguero National Park, a must-visit natural paradise in Costa Rica.
Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Barra del Colorado
21.7 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and stunning landscapes at Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Barra del Colorado in Costa Rica's Limón Province.
Pacuare River
40.9 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and thrilling adventures of the Pacuare River in Costa Rica's lush Limón Province, perfect for nature lovers and adrenaline seekers.
Caribbean Botanical Garden
41.0 km
Experience the vibrant colors and tranquility of the Caribbean Botanical Garden, a tropical paradise in Limón, Costa Rica.
Blue Day Family Club
43.2 km
Experience family-friendly fun and Costa Rican cuisine at Blue Day Family Club in Guápiles, a must-visit destination for travelers.
Essential places to dine
Tutti's Pizzeria Y Restaurante
1.6 km
Discover delicious Italian cuisine blended with local flavors at Tutti's Pizzeria Y Restaurante in Tortuguero.
Taylor's Place Tortuguero Costa Rica
1.7 km
Discover the culinary delights at Taylor's Place in Tortuguero, Costa Rica – where local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Tree Coffee House
1.8 km
Discover the warmth and flavors of Tree Coffee House in Limón – where every cup tells a story!
Cevichera y Marisquería Chiri
1.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Cevichera y Marisquería Chiri - your go-to destination for fresh ceviche and local seafood delicacies.
Restaurante Mi Niño
1.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Mi Niño in Pococí – a must-visit for food lovers exploring Limón Province.
Soda D'Leite
1.8 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda D'Leite in Limón Province - where every dish is a celebration of local cuisine.
Pollo Frito
2.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Pollo Frito in Roxana - home of mouthwatering fried chicken and warm hospitality.
Restaurante el Bambú
6.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante el Bambú in Pococí - a must-visit culinary destination for tourists.
Soda Lupe
17.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda Lupe in Cariari - where every dish tells a story.
Restaurante Los Amigos finca#2
44.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Los Amigos Finca#2 in Sarapiquí - a culinary haven amidst lush tropical beauty.
Restaurante La Costa
47.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante La Costa, where every meal is a celebration of local flavors amidst stunning natural beauty.
Mini Restaurante KEBAB
48.6 km
Experience authentic Middle Eastern cuisine at Mini Restaurante KEBAB in Sarapiquí - where every dish tells a story of flavor.
Centro Recreativo Las Tilapias
50.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Centro Recreativo Las Tilapias amidst Sarapiquí's breathtaking natural beauty.
Restaurante y Área para Acampar Los Sementales
50.5 km
Discover delicious Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurante y Área para Acampar Los Sementales in Sarapiquí.
La Bomba
52.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Bomba in Sarapiquí - a culinary haven for food lovers exploring Heredia Province.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Super Ever
1.6 km
Explore Super Ever in Roxana for a taste of local life and fresh Costa Rican produce in Limón Province.
CocoMan
1.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at CocoMan, a vibrant snack bar and coffee shop in Pococí, perfect for a refreshing break during your travels.
Tortuguero Hostel Backpackers, próximamente como Princesa del Río
1.9 km
Experience the heart of Tortuguero at Tortuguero Hostel Backpackers, where nature meets comfort in a vibrant community setting.
Almacén El Gavilán
1.9 km
Discover Almacén El Gavilán in Tortuguero, where local crafts meet practical supplies in a vibrant shopping experience.
Souvenir Pura Vida
1.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican souvenirs and clothing at Souvenir Pura Vida in Limón Province, a vibrant reflection of local culture and craftsmanship.
Coco Loco Tortuguero
2.1 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Coco Loco Tortuguero, a juice shop in Costa Rica's Limón Province offering refreshing, locally sourced drinks in a tropical paradise.
Souvenir Paraiso Tropical
2.1 km
Explore Souvenir Paraiso Tropical for unique Costa Rican crafts and memorabilia, capturing the vibrant spirit of Limón Province.
Super San Francisco
6.2 km
Explore Super San Francisco, your go-to supermarket in Tortuguero for local flavors and everyday essentials during your Costa Rican adventure.
Abastecedor Palacios
12.1 km
Explore the heart of Limón at Abastecedor Palacios, a local store brimming with authentic Costa Rican products and vibrant culture.
Creaciones Eyd
21.8 km
Explore Creaciones Eyd for authentic local crafts and unique souvenirs that embody the spirit of the region's artistry and culture.
Horquetas de Sarapiqui
53.4 km
Experience the natural beauty and vibrant culture of Horquetas de Sarapiqui, a hidden gem in Costa Rica's Heredia Province.
Almacén Y Ferretería Gonar
54.7 km
Explore Almacén Y Ferretería Gonar for all your home and tool needs in Puerto Viejo, a local gem with friendly service and a wide selection.
AUTOBOUTIQUE BG SARAPIQUÍ
54.8 km
Explore the heart of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí at AUTOBOUTIQUE BG SARAPIQUÍ, where local culture meets vibrant shopping and delicious cuisine.
Outlet Sarapiquí
54.9 km
Experience the charm of Outlet Sarapiquí, where shopping meets local culture amidst Costa Rica's breathtaking scenery.
Copicentro Sarapiquí
54.9 km
Explore Copicentro Sarapiquí, your essential shopping destination in Puerto Viejo for local goods and supplies.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Hotel El Deseo Serendipity
1.8 km
Experience the tranquility of Tortuguero at Hotel El Deseo Serendipity, where stunning beachfront views meet exceptional comfort and local culture.
Bar restaurante ROCK WELL
6.1 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Rock Well Grill in San Francisco de Tortuguero, where delicious grilled dishes meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Centro Turistico Muka
6.3 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Centro Turistico Muka, a culinary paradise in Limón Province, perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Bar y Restaurante Princess Katlyn
52.5 km
Discover the unique flavors of Nicaragua at Bar y Restaurante Princess Katlyn in Greytown, where great food meets a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Kike
52.7 km
Experience the authentic tastes of Costa Rica at Bar Kike, a vibrant grill restaurant in the heart of Horquetas, Sarapiquí.
Bar Arenas
52.8 km
Discover Bar Arenas in Sarapiquí, a lively bar offering refreshing drinks and a vibrant atmosphere that embodies the spirit of Costa Rica.
BAR LA PURISCALEÑA
53.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Bar La Puriscalena, a must-visit bar in Puerto Viejo for every traveler.
Chago's Bar
54.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Chago's Bar in Puerto Viejo, where refreshing cocktails meet friendly locals in a tropical paradise.
Bar & Restaurante La Terraza
54.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Bar & Restaurante La Terraza, a vibrant dining spot in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí.
El Cedro Las 24
54.4 km
Experience the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at El Cedro Las 24 in Sarapiquí, where vibrant dishes and a lively atmosphere await you.
Vista Al Río
54.6 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Vista Al Río, where local cuisine meets breathtaking views in Puerto Viejo.
Soda el cruce
54.8 km
Discover the heart of Costa Rican cuisine at Soda el Cruce, where every dish tells a story of tradition and flavor.
Restaurante Stones
54.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Stones, a culinary haven in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí, celebrating local ingredients and traditions.
Hotel El Bambú
55.1 km
Experience the charm of Costa Rica at Hotel El Bambú, a serene hotel surrounded by lush nature and close to thrilling outdoor adventures.
Cafeteria Avellanas
55.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Cafeteria Avellanas in Puerto Viejo, where local ingredients meet warm hospitality.
