Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
with July and August being prime time. The next best time is April, when leatherback
turtles nest in small numbers. Flashlights and cameras are not allowed on the beach.
Other Wildlife-Watching
More than 300 bird species, both resident and migratory, have been recorded in Tortuguero
- a bird-watchers' paradise. Due to the wet habitat, the park is especially rich in waders,
including egrets, jacanas, 14 different types of heron, as well as species such as kingfish-
ers, toucans and the great curassow (a type of jungle peacock known locally as the
pavón
).
The great green macaw is a highlight, most common from December to April, when the al-
mond trees are fruiting. In September and October, look for flocks of migratory species
such as eastern kingbird, barn swallows and purple martins. The Sea Turtle Conservancy
conducts a biannual monitoring program, in which volunteers can help scientists take in-
ventory of local and migratory species.
Certain species of mammal are particularly evident in Tortuguero, especially mantled
howler monkeys, the Central American spider monkey and white-faced capuchin. If
you've got a good pair of binoculars and a good guide, you can usually see both two- and
three-toed sloths. In addition, normally shy neotropical river otters are reasonably habitu-
ated to boats. Harder to spot are timid West Indian manatees. The park is also home to big
cats such as jaguars and ocelots - but these are savvy, nocturnal animals and sightings are
very rare.
Most wildlife-watching tours are done by boat. To get the best from Tortuguero, be on
the water early or go out following a heavy rain, when all the wildlife comes out to sun-
bathe. It is also highly recommended to take tours by canoe or kayak - since these smaller,
silent craft will allow you to get into the park's less trafficked nooks and crannies.
Boating
Four aquatic trails wind their way through Parque Nacional Tortuguero, inviting water-
borne exploration.
Río Tortuguero
acts as the entranceway to the network of trails. This
wide, beautiful river is often covered with water lilies and frequented by aquatic birds such
as herons, kingfishers and anhingas - the latter of which is known as the snakebird for the
way its slim, winding neck pokes out of the water when it swims.
Caño Chiquero
and
Canõ Mora
are two narrower waterways with good wildlife-spot-
ting opportunities. According to park regulation, only kayaks, canoes and silent electric
boats are allowed in these areas (a rule that is constantly violated by many area tour com-
