Located within the boundaries of Tortuguero National Park and accessible only by air or water, this small, lively village with strong Afro-Caribbean roots is best known for attracting hordes of sea turtles (the name Tortuguero means “turtle catcher”) — and the hordes of tourists who come to see them. While peak turtle season runs through July and August, the park and village have begun drawing travelers year-round. Once the turtles return to the sea, families and adventure travelers arrive to hike through the jungle, explore the wild national park, and canoe along the region's lush canals.