Monday, 6 June 2016

On the Caribbean Coast: Tortuguero National Park

Located 80 km northwest of the port city of Limon, one of the goals of creating this park was to protect this important nesting site of the green turtle.  A smaller number of leatherback and hawksbill turtles also nest here.  The latter is known for its beautifully patterned shiny shell.  The park consists of a very humid tropical forest which is crisscrossed by a captivating system of wetlands comprised of lagoons and canals from which visitors can readily view land turtles, monkeys, crocodiles, caimans, a variety of birds and other animals.  More difficult to observe are gasper fish and manatees.  The green turtle nests between July and October, with a peak in activity in August and September; and the leatherback, between March and June, peaking in April and May.  In the local community there are guides who set-up guided visits in the park.  This system allows tourists to observe turtles laying their eggs at night.  In and around the town of Tortuguero are many lodging, restaurant and ground, sea and air transportation services available.  The latter provided by NatureAir. 


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