Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
The park is a short walk south of the village of Tortuguero (the most common entry point)
and also accessible by boat from Parismina.
Tortuguero Village
Located within the confines of Parque Nacional Tortuguero, accessible only by air or wa-
ter, this bustling little village with strong Afro-Caribbean roots is best known for attracting
hordes of sea turtles (the name Tortuguero means 'turtle place') - and the hordes of tour-
ists who want to see them. While the peak turtle season is in July and August, the park and
village have begun to attract travelers year-round. Even in October, when the turtles have
pretty much returned to the sea, caravans of families and adventure travelers arrive to go
on jungle hikes and to canoe the area's lush canals.
Activities
Volunteering
Sea Turtle Conservancy
VOLUNTEERING
2709-8091, in USA 352-373-6441;
www.conserveturtles.org
; museum admission US$2)
About 200m north of the village, Tortuguero's original turtle-conservation organization op-
erates a research station, visitor center and museum. Exhibits focus on all things turtle-re-
lated, including a 20-minute video about the history of local turtle conservation.
STC also runs a highly reputable environmental volunteer program. During nesting sea-
son, volunteers can assist with turtle tagging and egg counts, and during bird-migration
seasons, help with mist-netting and point-counts. Volunteer fees (starting at US$1524) in-
clude accommodations, meals and transport to and from San José.
Canadian Organization for Tropical Education & Rainforest Conservation
VOLUNTEERING
This not-for-profit organization operates the Estación Biológica Caño Palma, 7km north of
Tortuguero village. This small biological research station runs a volunteer program in
