> WHEN YOU GO

Tortuguero is a sand bar island separated from mainland Costa Rica by rivers and navigable canals. The rainforest village shares space with the designated national park. There are no cars on the island.

The word Tortuguero means “Land of the Turtles.” As many as 600 green turtles make their way to its beaches to nest between July and October each year. Expect more tourists during the height of the laying season. Leatherback turtles nest in the same area between February and August.

While green turtles lay an average of 100 to 200 eggs at a time, survival rates are low. About 70 to 80 per cent of a turtle’s eggs will hatch. Of those about 0.1 per cent will make it to adulthood. Where to stay: Mawamba Lodge (mawamba.com) is an all-inclusive resort about 10 minutes from Tortuguero village. The hotel rates start around $230 (U.S.) and include round-trip transportation (bus and boat) from San Jose, meals and select tour options. Non-turtle activities: While turtles are the main draw, keep an eye out for macaws, monkeys, caimans, sloths and lizards. The waters that the turtles call home aren’t suitable for swimmers. Sharks, caiman (crocodiles) and other less than friendly predators have already laid claim to the waters. Stick to hotel pools. Don’t miss speed boat or kayak ride opportunities to explore canals and get a closer look at the flora and fauna. Don’t miss: The Sea Turtle Biological Field Station and Visitors’ Center (conserveturtles.org) offers information and photo ops. Purchasing T-shirts and crafts here helps with preservation projects.