Exploration Journey in Tortuguero National Park's Wildlife Sanctuary
In the heart of Costa Rica lies Tortuguero National Park, a remote and enchanting haven accessible only by boat or aircraft. This was the destination for a recent traveller, who embarked on an unforgettable journey through the park's waterways and canals, guided by local experts Michael and Eddie.
The author's journey began at Evergreen Lodge, a popular base for explorers seeking adventure in this tropical paradise. From the lodge, the rainforest trails beckoned, offering opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife. One such encounter led to the discovery of a Strawberry Poison Dart Frog, a vibrant amphibian known for its toxic skin.
The main mode of transportation within Tortuguero is by boat, which proved to be the perfect vessel for spotting a diverse range of creatures. During the boat trip, the author was treated to sightings of the Snowy Egret, Bare-Throated Tiger Heron, Anhinga, speckled Caimans, and a Black River Turtle. Using Swarovski CL Pocket binoculars, the author easily spotted colorful tropical birds like the Keel-Billed Toucan and endangered Green Macaw perched in trees along the water's edge.
The highlight of the trip, however, was an unexpected encounter with a sea turtle hatchling. Most hatchlings typically emerge in September and October, but during the author's visit in early December, three stragglers were found and watched running into the waves as the morning sun rose. Henry from Evergreen Lodge, with 16 years of wildlife guiding experience, assisted in the search.
As the evenings approached, Capuchin monkeys could be seen swinging through the treetops around the cabins, potentially snatching food from unattentive visitors. One evening, a giant male green iguana was spotted on shore, and a baby crocodile was seen sunning itself on a downed tree.
Despite its remote location, Tortuguero National Park is the country's third most visited park, attracting travellers from around the world. In 2021, Costa Rica remains open to most travelers, including American tourists, but requires proof of COVID-19 vaccination or a negative test result for entry. It is essential to check the latest travel advisories for any COVID-19 related measures.
For those planning a visit, Tortuguero offers a peaceful and relaxing safari trip through its jungle canals, filled with the sounds of various animals. With its abundant wildlife and unique accessibility, Tortuguero National Park promises an unforgettable adventure for any nature enthusiast.
During the author's stay at Evergreen Lodge, they embarked on a boat trip through Tortuguero's waterways, a mode of transportation that allowed them to spot various exotic creatures like the Snowy Egret, Bare-Throated Tiger Heron, and Anhinga. The author's lifestyle during this journey involved discovering and appreciating the park's diverse wildlife, from a Strawberry Poison Dart Frog to a sea turtle hatchling, even planning for future visits to experience the annual hatching season.
