Tortuguero: Costa Rica's very own Amazon
With its dense rainforests crisscrossed by natural canals, inaccessible apart from by boat or plane, the Tortuguero area can be compared to a mini-Amazon in some ways. It has a frontier feel and is home to some of Costa Rica's most authentic eco-lodges that nature enthusiasts will love.
Nature at its wildest in Tortuguero
Tortuguero is a nature lover's paradise. Aside from the lush rainforests that surround the area, it's beaches are among the most important turtle nesting habitats in the world.
Anglers will also love Tortuguero. The brackish lagoons, canals, and Caribbean river mouths are home to world-record tarpon and snook, great info for anyone ready to wrestle 100-pound 'silver' beasts in the pristine waters of the Barra del Colorado Wildlife Refuge.
The local community in Tortuguero is strongly organized around preserving and protecting its natural resources. It sustains itself ultimately by ecotourism, something you can fully experience in the top hotels we recommend.
Recommended Tortuguero Hotels
We recommend three hotels in Tortuguero. Read on below for more info on these great eco-lodges:
Tortuga Lodge
Tortuga Lodge is a luxurious eco-lodge featuring river views, plush bedding, elegant decor, and private terraces.
A stay here includes a la carte meals and afternoon coffee with homemade pastry. The on-site Green Turtle Restaurant offers a gastronomic presentation that's sure to impress.
Manatus Hotel
Manatus offers waterfront luxury in Tortuguero with great views, an a la carte restaurant, and a meal-inclusive stay. The hotel has a specialist nature guide to show you around the national park and turtle nesting sites. It also features a spa, pool, and its own nature reserve.
Aninga Lodge
Aninga Lodge is surrounded by nature and features bungalows scattered along winding trails. Amenities include a turtle-shaped pool, bar, spa, buffet-style dining, and live music.
FAQs about the best places to stay in Tortuguero
Is Tortuguero worth visiting?
Yes! If you're a nature enthusiast or avid angler who loves remote places, then you'll find Tortuguero a wonderful place to visit.
What is Tortuguero known for?
Tortuguero is famous for its wildlife and remote rainforests, accessible only by boat or plane. Some of the animals you might spot in Tortuguero include jaguars, tapirs, turtles (leatherbacks, green, loggerheads, and hawksbill), monkeys, sloths, iguanas, poison dart frogs, bats, herons, anhingas, caimans, crocodiles, and boa constrictors. To name just a few!
The area is also famous for its world-class tarpon fishing.
How many days should I spend in Tortuguero?
We recommend at least three days in Tortuguero to get the most out of this area. That way, you can experience the rainforests, the wildlife, and get to check out the village.
Can you swim in Tortuguero?
We don't recommend swimming in either the canals or the Caribbean Sea in Tortuguero. Can you say crocodiles and sharks? Stick to your hotel pool while in this area.
How do you get around Tortuguero, Costa Rica?
You can easily get around Tortuguero by foot or boat, kayak, or canoe.
Is Tortuguero an island?
The village of Tortuguero is a sandbar island on Costa Rica's northern Caribbean coast. The entire area is accessible from the rest of Costa Rica only by boat or plane.