The things worth doing in Tortuguero, from the obvious landmarks to the ones locals actually rate.
Sea Turtle Conservancy visitor centre
The research station at the north end of the village, with a small museum covering decades of green turtle tagging on this beach.
Paddle it yourself
Rentals in the village let you take a kayak or canoe onto the public canals unguided. The park channels still need a ticket and a boatman.
Jalova sector
The park's southern ranger station at the Parismina end, reached by boat, with a beach trail and a fraction of the visitors.
Birding the canals
The canal system carries a very long bird list, and a guide with a scope changes the day entirely. Early morning, without exception.
Gavilán trail
The park's one real land trail, running from the Cuatro Esquinas station through swamp forest. Boots, and expect it to close after heavy rain.