While taking in the beautiful beachy views of both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts, groups visiting Costa Rica can observe sea turtles nesting.
Five of the seven species of sea turtles in the world lay their eggs on Costa Rica’s beaches, and according to itineraries proposed by Travel Excellence, a San Jose-based operator, two of the best sites to see the this incredible spectacle of nature are Tortuguero National Park and Ostional Wildlife Refuge.
Tortuguero National Park
Located on the northeastern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero Beach is one of the Western Hemisphere’s important nesting sites for the endangered green turtle. The nesting season goes from July to September, and in two months, baby turtles emerge from the sand to make their way to the ocean. Tortuguero is often included as part of Travel Excellence’s classic program. Packages include all meals and lodging, as well as bus and boat transfers, plus a private boat with amazing views of the canals. Groups can also take part in a cooking class to learn some Caribbean recipes.
Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Ostional’s beach on the Pacific coast is the world’s second-largest nesting ground for the olive ridley sea turtle. Depending on the season (mainly from July to December), innumerable olive-colored turtles arrive on the beach, and the mass arrival of turtles is called arribadas (arrivals). Groups visiting Ostional can stay about 25 minutes away in Nosara, a spectacular beach area including Guiones and Pelada beaches, and both are great for swimming, relaxing and watching breathtaking sunsets.
To learn more, contact Carlos Blanco with Travel Excellence or go to travelexcellence.com.
Top photo: Tortuguero Canals
Photo by Travel Excellence
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