The North Caribbean Coast

( Tortuguero and Barra del Colorado )

North Caribbean comprises the caribbean coast and goes from the San Juan River to Limón city. Limón city is the touristic center of this Corridor, simultaneously working as an accommodation, stop over, distribution and touring center.

Green turtle’s nesting on Tortuguero National Park and bass ‘s, shad’s and other species’s sport fishing at Barra del Colorado National Wild Life Refugee represent the main attraction of the region. It is complimented with the river channel’s system, wich connects Moin Port with Barra del Colorado, and has become a singular attraction and the only way of transportation.

Nature-based products get rewarded, specially fauna observation, therefore is a world-known site for bird and turtle’s watching

Main attractions

BARRA DEL COLORADO BEACH

Long and open, the northern Caribbean coast is characterized by strong surf and dangerous currents for swimming. However, its main attraction consists of the canals that run parallel to the beach, with natural landscapes and abundant animal species observable on tours. Delimited on the north by the mouth of the Río Colorado and on the south by an estuary, Barra del Colorado beach is suitable for hiking, nature- and wildlife-watching, fishing and contemplating the sea. Boat trips may be taken through the highly interesting and naturally scenic canals and lagoons in the area. The village of Colorado is a peaceful fishing and farming community divided in two by a landing strip.

TORTUGUERO–COLORADO CANALS

Due to its geologic origins, the region containing the Barra del Colorado National Wildlife Refuge and Tortuguero National Park forms an extensive floodplain made up of highly scenic, interconnected canals, waterways and lagoons. One of the rainiest areas in the country (5,000 to 6,000 millimeters per year), this region is rich in biodiversity. These factors allow visitors to this extensive network of waterways the opportunity to tour and explore this marvelous world—unique for its peacefulness and natural luxuriance—by boat, canoe or kayak.

It is a truly relaxing experience to tour the canals and take in the exquisite green of the incredible tropical vegetation, reflected in liquid mirrors everywhere. One such looking glass is Caño Palma, which links Penitencia Lagoon in Tortuguero with Samay Lagoon in Barra del Colorado. This stunningly beautiful canal is named after the abundance of yolillo palms found all around.

TORTUGUERO BEACH

This long beach with its strong surf and lush tropical greenery is a great place to hike and take in Tortuguero National Park’s diverse flora and fauna. The park is adjacent to the village, also named Tortuguero, where the beach is located. Four species of sea turtles nest here: green turtles, most numerous, from April to August; leatherbacks from February to July; hawksbills from April to October; and loggerheads from April to May.

Tourism is the main source of income for Tortuguero village, followed by fishing and subsistence farming. This has produced an interesting mix between the village’s indigenous origins and the many tourism services and facilities that are shaping its present and future, and which allow tourists to enjoy a wide range of activities by day or night: walking and sunbathing on the beach, observing the biodiversity, boating or kayaking the canals, socializing with the locals, sampling typical Caribbean fare or dancing to the beat of tropical or modern music.