Visiting Tortuguero Outside the Turtle Season: Best Activities and Tips
- cam.campo
- Mar 15
- 5 min read
Updated: Mar 17
Tortuguero is located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica and is accessible only by canoe or plane. It was my biggest favorite in Costa Rica, a truly unique destination that is well worth a visit. The village of Tortuguero is nestled between a river branch and the Caribbean Sea.
The best time to visit Tortuguero is between June and October. During this period, turtles come to lay their eggs on the beaches along the coast. However, visiting Tortuguero outside this season is still well worth it, and that’s actually when we went.
How to Get to Tortuguero?
It takes about three hours by car to travel from San José to La Pavona. From there, you'll board small canoes that will take you to Tortuguero—the only means of transport besides flying. In fact, it is the most commonly used way to reach the village.
It offers a beautiful first glimpse of this stunning park, which has the feel of a dense jungle. Along the way, you might spot your first birds of all shapes and sizes, as well as caimans or crocodiles. However, be mindful of the river shuttle schedules, as the last departure is quite early, around 3 PM.
Once you arrive at the La Pavona parking lot, drive all the way to the end of the road to reach the official parking area. Be cautious of touts who may try to direct you to alternative parking lots. Expect to pay 6500 CRC per day for parking.
What to Do in Tortuguero Outside the Turtle Season ?
Explore the Tortuguero Jungle by Kayak
One of Our Favorite Experiences in Costa Rica! Kayaking through the Tortuguero jungle is an unforgettable experience. The departure takes place at dawn from the central guide station. The earlier you set off, the higher your chances of spotting wildlife and navigating the park’s various canals in solitude with your guide.
You can choose between a single or double kayak, and since the current is mild, the ride isn’t too physically demanding.
To secure your spot, book your kayak tour here by clicking this link.
You'll first paddle along the main canal—no worries, as the guide assures you, the crocodiles are still sleeping at this time of day! You’ll then quickly branch off into smaller waterways where you'll need to keep a sharp eye out. Exploring this jungle feels like playing a real-life game of Where’s Waldo? To be honest, without our guide, we probably wouldn’t have spotted any animals.
Let’s see if you can practice spotting wildlife with this photo! (The answer is at the very end of the article—let us know in the comments if you found the hidden animal!).
We also saw many birds—it was truly a magical and timeless experience. The stunning landscapes and the lush jungle reflecting on the calm waters of the canals made it an unforgettable moment.
→ You can also take this excursion by canoe, but I wouldn’t highly recommend this option. These are small boats that hold around ten people or more, meaning not everyone gets a clear view of the animals. Plus, you won’t get to fully enjoy the tranquility of the forest on your own.
Strolling Through Tortuguero National Park
After exploring Tortuguero National Park by kayak, you can also visit it on foot. A guide isn’t necessary for this walk, as the park is relatively small and can be explored in about two hours round trip at most.
As soon as you take your first steps into the park, you’ll likely be surprised by the information on the first sign: How to react if you encounter a jaguar? The park’s main trail is even called the Jaguar Trail, but don’t worry—such encounters are extremely rare!
The trail runs almost entirely along the Caribbean Sea, which appears through the trees. During turtle nesting season, visitors are not allowed on the beach without a guide, as fines may apply. Outside this period, you can access the beach freely. However, if you plan to swim, be extremely cautious—currents in this area are very dangerous.
During your walk, you’ll discover a rich and diverse ecosystem with lush jungle vegetation, colorful flowers, a variety of birds, geckos, lizards, monkeys, crabs, and maybe even… jaguars!
→ Important: The jungle is full of mosquitoes, so don’t forget your repellent and bring something to cover up!
Go on a Night Safari in Tortuguero National Park
Many species in Costa Rica are nocturnal. Embark on a night safari for a unique experience that will give you a different perspective on Tortuguero’s wildlife and vegetation. With the keen eye of your guide, you’ll have the chance to discover species that are rarely seen during the day.
Discover the Village of Tortuguero
The small village of Tortuguero offers a completely new and unfamiliar atmosphere—the Caribbean vibe.
Lively Music, Colorful Facades, and a Laid-Back Atmosphere – We Love It! Tortuguero’s charm lies not only in its remote access by water but also in its unique setting—bordered on one side by the river and on the other by the sea. Many small cabins offer breathtaking views of both landscapes, allowing you to dine with your feet almost in the water.
Hike Up Cerro de Tortuguero Volcano
Accessible by boat from Tortuguero, this now inactive volcano offers a stunning panoramic view of the canals, the village, and the Caribbean Sea. Be sure to wear sturdy shoes, as the slopes are steep—but once you reach the top, you won’t regret the effort!
Fun fact: The black sand on Tortuguero’s beaches comes from this very volcano.
Where to Eat in Tortuguero?
Miss Miriam
Tucked away from the lively streets of Tortuguero, this small, unassuming restaurant might not catch your eye at first, but it serves delicious Caribbean dishes. The prices are very reasonable, and the portions are generous. We tried the Caribbean-style chicken, which was served with gallo pinto (Costa Rican rice and beans), fried plantains, and fresh vegetables—a true local delight!
El Patio
We wouldn’t necessarily recommend El Patio for its food, but their mango smoothie is a must-try, and the direct view of the canal makes it a great spot for a refreshing break during the day.
In the evening, it’s also a lovely place to grab a drink. The terrace, spread over two levels, is beautifully lit with lanterns, creating a charming and relaxed atmosphere.
El Muellecito
Located in the central square, this small restaurant offers a wide selection of Caribbean dishes, including meat, fish, and vegetables. The portions are generous, and the food is tasty, but it doesn’t stand out much compared to other restaurants in the area.
Dorling Bakery
Dorling Bakery is the perfect spot to enjoy a delicious breakfast with your feet almost in the water. A great way to start the day in a peaceful and scenic setting!
Tortillas Doña Mary
A small food truck specializing in cheese tortillas. We were a bit skeptical at first, but after trying them, we have to admit—they were pretty good!
Do You Really Need a Guide to Spot the Basilisk?
Before we wrap up, I hope you managed to find it! If not, I’d definitely recommend taking a guide—they have a keen eye for spotting the elusive Basilisk hidden among the leaves!
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