Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
panies and lodges). Caño Chiquero is thick with vegetation, especially red guácimo trees
and epiphytes. Black turtles and green iguanas like to hang out here. Caño Mora is about
3km long but only 10m wide, so it feels as if it's straight out of
The Jungle Book
.
Caño
Harold
is actually an artificially constructed canal, but that doesn't stop the creatures -
such as Jesus Christ lizards and caimans - from inhabiting its tranquil waters.
Canoe rental and boat tours are available in Tortuguero village.
Hiking
Behind Cuatro Esquinas station,
El Gavilán Land Trail
is the only public trail through the
park that is on solid ground. Visitors can hike the muddy, 2km out-and-back trail that tra-
verses the tropical humid forest and parallels a stretch of beach. Green parrots and several
species of monkey are commonly sighted here. The short trail is well marked. Rubber
boots are required (for rent at hotels and near the park entrance).
Park A
n Fees
A separate park admission fee is charged for each day you visit the national park. If you're
planning multiple activities within the park, you can save a few colones by concentrating
them in a single day; for example, if you go out on a boat tour in the early morning, then
hike the El Gavilán Land Trail that same afternoon, you'll only pay the park admission fee
once.
rk Addmiissiion F
Information
US$10; 6-7am, 7:30am-noon & 1-4pm)
, just south of Tortuguero village. This is a helpful
ranger station, with maps and info.
Jalova Station
( 6am-6pm)
is on the canal at the south entrance to the national park,
accessible from Parismina by boat. Tour boats from Moín often stop here for a picnic; you
will find a short nature trail, bathroom, drinking water and rudimentary camping facilities
that may or may not be open (and may or may not be flooded).
Getting There & Away
