How to get to Tortuguero

Tortuguero has no road access: you reach it by boat along the canals. Here we explain the two ways to cross from La Pavona and where to leave your car safely.

La Pavona → Tortuguero, your gateway to the rainforest

The village of Tortuguero is surrounded by rainforest, canals and the Caribbean Sea, and has no road access. The usual starting point is La Pavona, a dock reached by car or bus from San José, Guápiles or Cariari. From there, a boat ride of roughly one hour to an hour and a half along the canals drops you right in the heart of Tortuguero National Park.

You have two ways to make the crossing: the public shared collective boat, the most affordable option with fixed schedules, or a private boat charter at your own pace. In both cases payment is cash only. We help you organise everything so your arrival is easy and hassle-free.

How to get there, step by step

  1. 1

    Arrive at La Pavona

    From San José, Guápiles or Cariari, by car or bus, to the dock.

  2. 2

    Board at the dock

    Buy your seat on the boat. Remember: payment is cash only.

  3. 3

    Cruise the canals

    A 1 to 1.5 hour trip through jungle, birds and caimans.

  4. 4

    Welcome to Tortuguero!

    You disembark in the village, in the heart of the National Park.

Two ways to cross to Tortuguero

Most popular

Public transport (shared collective boat)

The most common and affordable way to get there. The collective boats leave the La Pavona dock at fixed times throughout the day and share the ride with other travellers. Perfect if you want to save money and can fit around the departure schedule.

What it offers:

  • Departures at fixed times during the day
  • The most affordable option
  • Boat shared with other travellers
  • Experienced local boatman who knows the canals
From $12.99 + 13% VAT per person / one way

Price direct to the Tortuguero dock. If your accommodation is beyond Tortuguero, a surcharge applies depending on the hotel.

Cash payment only
More flexible

Private transport (private boat charter)

A boat just for your group, departing at whatever time suits you best. It's more direct and flexible than the shared boat, ideal if you're travelling as a family, arriving outside schedule hours or simply prefer your own space and pace.

What it offers:

  • Departure time tailored to you
  • Boat exclusively for your group
  • A more direct and flexible crossing
  • Ideal for families and groups
From $110 + 13% VAT price for 2 people $20 per additional person

Departure at the time you choose. The listed price is valid until 4:00 pm; for night departures the price varies — contact us.

Cash payment only

*Prices do not include the 13% VAT and may vary depending on season and availability. Contact us to confirm the exact fare.

Request your private transport

Fill in your details and we'll send you the request via WhatsApp. We'll confirm availability, the final price and the cash payment details.

The public transport (collective boat) cannot be booked: buy your ticket directly at the La Pavona dock.

When you submit, WhatsApp will open with your request ready to send. It is not a confirmed booking until we reply to you.

Parking by the dock

If you arrive in your own car, don't worry: at La Pavona there is guarded parking right by the dock where you can leave your vehicle while you enjoy Tortuguero. It's the safe option for leaving your car for one or several days. Parking is also paid in cash.

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Practical information for your arrival

  • The boat ride takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours.
  • Bring cash (colones or dollars): the transport and parking do not accept cards.
  • Protect your luggage from the water and bring sun protection, water and a light rain jacket.
  • Get to the dock with time to spare before the boat's departure.

Frequently asked questions about getting here

How do you get to Tortuguero?

Tortuguero has no road running to the village. You reach it by boat along the canals, usually from the La Pavona dock, with a ride of one hour to an hour and a half. There is also the option of flying in by small plane to the local airstrip.

Where is La Pavona?

La Pavona is a dock located to the northeast of Cariari, in the province of Limón. You reach it by car or bus from San José, Guápiles or Cariari, and from there the boats set off for Tortuguero.

Can I pay for the transport by card?

No. The collective boat, the private boat and the parking are all paid in cash only, in colones or dollars. We recommend having the amount ready before you reach the dock.

Do I need to book the boat in advance?

The collective boat runs on fixed schedules, but in high season it's wise to arrange your arrival in advance. For the private boat it's best to book. Message us and we'll help you coordinate everything.

Where do I leave my car if I arrive by car?

At La Pavona there is guarded parking by the dock where you can leave your vehicle safely for one or several days. Payment is in cash.

How long does the boat ride take?

The crossing along the canals between La Pavona and Tortuguero takes approximately 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on conditions and stops.