Tortuga Lodge & Gardens
Costa RicaOn Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, nestled between the Tortuguero River and gorgeous plantation-style gardens, Tortuga Lodge & Gardens is the only hotel in the area with its own private nature reserve, offering high-end, beautifully designed accommodation with an array of adventures and activities. Each of the 29 rooms, including the spectacular, very private Miss Florentina Villa, features sweeping views of the river.
Tortuguero is a nature and wildlife lover’s paradise. Daily nature walks and boat trips are led by the lodge’s experienced naturalist guides, who also lead tours to turtle nesting sites in season, kayak trips up the Tortuguero River, twilight nature hikes, and more. At 51,870 protected acres, this is one of the last large areas of tropical rainforest in Central America. Three species of monkeys (Spider, Howler, and White-faced), Three-toed Sloths, and river otters are frequently seen along the natural inland waterways and canals. Caiman, iguanas, river turtles, Basilisk Lizards, and Poison Dart Frogs (Dendrobates) inhabit the area, along with more than 320 species of birds including the Great Green Macaw, all six species of kingfishers found in the new world, three species of toucans, eight species of parrots, and other neotropical species such as the Slaty-tailed Trogon, White-collared Manakin, and the Purple-throated Fruitcrow.
Tortuguero (“place of turtles”) is most famous for the thousands of sea turtles that come ashore between July and September to lay their eggs on the beach and bury them in ritual millions of years old. Nighttime excursions to watch nesting, and later hatching, turtles are the area’s most popular adventure, along with boat tours of the huge network of canals.
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Swimming pool
- Sun terrace
- Gardens
- Observe turtle nesting and hatching
- Guided wildlife trips
- Cultural excursions
- Motorised boat tours and fishing
- Kayaking in the Tortuguero National Park
- Guided night walks and day hiking
- Teach English to local kids
Tortuga Lodge & Gardens is a sophisticated river lodge, bringing guests closer to nature in total luxury. As it’s not possible to drive here, the adventure begins immediately, as you’re escorted to the property by bus and boat, or by light aircraft. The plantation-style accommodation is homely and comfortable with a safari camp feel. Kick back in the hammocks next to the relaxing dipping pool.
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AUTHENTICTravel your way with Lightfoot. We’ll take you into the heart of each destination and introduce you to the people and places that reveal the true essence of a country. With our trusted local connections, we create holidays that immerse you in culture, history, and everyday life. Far from the crowds, always deeply authentic.
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