Guanacaste national parks

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Tortuguero National Park

Whether it's by kayak, by boat, or hiking through forest trails, Tortuguero National Park is a perfect example of tropical rain forest. The park is made up of more than 18.000 hectares and protects a wealth of exotic wildlife including those that gave it its name - turtles.

You can reach Tortuguero via boats departing from the town of Moin or you can fly in to a handy airstrip that lies on the outskirts of town. If you're traveling with a tour, then just sit back and enjoy the ride.

There are a variety of ways you can make your way through this watery park that is made up of several canals that twist and turn. Accompanied by a guide, you should be able to enjoy the park to the fullest since they can take you deeper into the park than if you were making it on your own. Some guides have their own boat while yet another option is to take a silent kayak into the park. The kayak will afford you excellent views of the surrounding vegetation and wildlife but will also prove to be a physically demanding tour. Prepare yourself to sweat!

There are a few biological stations set up inside the park and are manned by scientists and volunteers. Their purpose is to study the different types of animals and birds found in Tortuguero and to keep the area as impact free as possible.