Things to see in Costa Rica: Caribbean Coast
Tortuguero
The largest tropical rainforest in Costa Rica, Tortuguero National Park on the Caribbean is criss-crossed by canals that flow into the sea. Activities here centre on boat trips through the extensive network of freshwater creeks and lagoons. The park is home to seven species of river turtle, spectacled caiman, southern river otters, spider, howler and capuchin monkeys, three-toed sloths and over 300 species of birds. But most visitors' attention turns to the beaches when, at night, green and hawksbill turtles come ashore to nest between July and September (peaking in August) and leatherback turtles between February and April.
Turrialba
This is the centre for white-water rafting and kayaking in Costa Rica on the world famous Pacuare River. Stunning scenery and roaring rapids through sheer-side gorges make this a memorable adventure. The river has several grades and so should appeal to all ages.
Cahuita Beach National Park
Great beaches and waves are the hallmarks of this National Park, created to protect the coral reef that lies off Punta Cahuita. Inland in the mixed forest you'll see coatis, howler monkeys, raccoons, snakes and butterflys. But it is also home to the only Sloth Rescue Centre in the world - loveable E.T.-like nocturnal creatures that are only found in the equatorial rainforest.