Tortuguero Costa Rica

Tortuguero Costa Rica

Tortuguero is an inland island teeming with wildlife, accessible only by boat. From canoeing through jungle waterways to witnessing a leatherback turtle nesting, this adventure offers a true glimpse into nature’s wild heart.

 From canoeing through jungle waterways to witnessing a leatherback turtle nesting, this adventure offers a true glimpse into nature’s wild heart.

Images and article by William Drumm

Visiting Tortuguero, often called the “Amazon of Costa Rica,” feels like stepping back in time into an untouched prehistoric jungle. This remote fishing village, accessible only by boat or plane, offers a raw and immersive experience in one of the country’s most biodiverse regions.

The River Journey to Tortuguero

From Puerto Viejo, it’s easy to hire a launcha (water taxi) to reach Tortuguero. The boat ride, lasting around three hours, winds through crocodile-infested rivers and lush emerald rainforests. During the dry season, low water levels sometimes cause boats to run aground, and passengers may have to hop into the murky waters to push the boat—often with crocodiles lurking nearby. Fortunately, my boat was light, allowing us to glide past others who weren’t as lucky.

Wildlife Watching and Sport Fishing

Tortuguero is renowned for its incredible biodiversity. Whether you’re paddling through the winding canals or trekking through dense jungle trails, wildlife encounters are abundant. Hiring a local guide enhances the experience, helping visitors spot rare and exotic creatures. On a short canoe ride through Tortuguero National Park, I witnessed a variety of bird species, howler monkeys, and even a few lurking caimans.

A Breathtaking Encounter with a Leatherback Turtle

One of the most unforgettable moments of my trip was witnessing a leatherback sea turtle lay her eggs under the moonlight. These prehistoric giants can weigh over 1,500 pounds, and watching this massive creature struggle up the beach was awe-inspiring. Her determination to complete the nesting process was a humbling sight.

However, this delicate moment was interrupted when a so-called “conservation” group arrived, snapping photos and startling the turtle back into the sea. My guide explained that such disturbances can prevent turtles from successfully laying their eggs, severely impacting their survival. If you ever volunteer with a turtle rescue operation, be sure to research organizations carefully to ensure their practices genuinely prioritize the well-being of these magnificent creatures.

Tortuguero is a place of extraordinary beauty, rich in wildlife and adventure. From navigating wild rivers to witnessing rare animal encounters, this inland island offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photographer, or an eco-conscious traveler, Tortuguero will leave a lasting impression.

Thanks for reading. To learn more about my mission visit my about page. To see my favorite images visit my portfolio, and if you are interested in purchasing prints (a portion of each sale goes to marine conservation efforts) then take a look at my fine art prints. Plus, to see even more of my images and to connect with me, make sure to follow me on Instagram!

Learn More About William

Thanks for reading. To learn more about my mission visit my about page. To see my favorite images visit my portfolio, and if you are interested in purchasing prints (a portion of each sale goes to marine conservation efforts) then take a look at my fine art prints. Plus, to see even more of my images and to connect with me, make sure to follow me on Instagram!