PARQUE NACIONAL TORTUGUERO

Tortuguero is the most important beach in America for nesting green turtles, but it should also be mentioned that Tortuguero is not only a privileged observation point for turtles: it is also a lush tropical forest with a great diversity. It is essential to take one or two guided tours in the national park. Whether by canoe to discover the area's amazing biodiversity, or on foot in the jungle (don't venture there alone, because of the slippery terrain and deadly venom snakes: go with a guide and the right equipment). It is advisable to go on an early morning excursion. If it rains, wait until the rain calms down and leave later: the animals will probably dry out in the sun. The park reception area has been renovated and now offers toilets. An exhibition at the entrance to the park explains some facts about the park, its exceptional fauna and flora. It is impossible to certify the exact number of species in the park because new species are identified each year (including insects). But by 2019, there were currently 2,000 plant species, 442 bird species, 138 mammal species, 118 reptile species (including 4 sea turtles) and 58 amphibian species. Despite its (very) difficult observation, Tortuguero also has a large population of jaguars that occasionally attack sea turtles, the last observation took place in 2018!

A word of advice: even if we can only imagine that the irresistible urge to take out your camera or laptop is often difficult to control, try to spare the flashes and lights on your screens in order to protect the animals you have come to observe. Indeed, prefer twins or simply your eyes to enjoy the natural treasures of Tortuguero (and nature in general!). For turtles, the most serious agencies and guides are gradually deciding to stop providing night tours. Few (and not even at all) suitable for tourism, however, there are areas where groups of people with large flashlights and white lights glare at turtles. Sensitive to light, animals undergo these excursions that disturb them in their natural environment. Just imagine that you are woken up in a heckling, blinded by a giant light.... Our duty is therefore also to warn our readers of the uniqueness of the forest and this nature, and to preserve it. So open your eyes wide!