Tortuguero National Park Visitor Guide 2026 — Tours, Rules & Tips

Tortuguero National Park protects 77,000 acres of rainforest, canals, and beach on Costa Rica's northern Caribbean coast. There are no roads to the park — you arrive by boat through jungle waterways. This 2026 visitor guide covers tours, fees, turtle season, and practical tips.

How park access works

Most visitors stay in Tortuguero Village and join guided tours that include canal access. A separate National Park entrance ticket is required for most boat and canoe tours (not for the village itself). Your guide handles timing and routes; tours depart early morning when wildlife is most active.

Best tours inside the park

• National Park riverboat canal tour — classic 6 AM wildlife run.
• Silent canoe tour — narrow tributaries, closer animals.
• Green turtle nesting — July–October 2026 nights only.
• Full tours hub — compare all options and prices.

2026 turtle nesting season

Green sea turtle nesting tours operate July 1 – October 31, 2026, with peak nesting in August and September. Tours are ranger-led, no flash photography, and group sizes are limited. Book early for peak weekends.

Getting to Tortuguero

Drive or shuttle to La Pavona, then take the shared boat (₡6,000) or a private charter. See our La Pavona boat guide or private transfer from San José.