On Costa Rica's roadless Caribbean coast, Tortuguero is reached by boat through jungle canals patrolled by caimans, kingfishers and howler monkeys. The main event is nocturnal: between July and October, green turtles nest on the black-sand beach in their thousands. Night viewing is only allowed with a certified local guide in small groups — book one through your lodge and leave the camera behind, since flashes are banned.
Featured in Ten wild tropical trips for animal lovers · Tropical