A mass of jungles and an eerie maze of winding canals and rivers give an Amazonian quality to this sparsely populated region on the North Caribbean Coast. Since the surrounding rainforest areas are so dense, many of the attractions are accessible only by air or sea. A float down these ominous brown waters is an adventure in itself as you’re sure to hear the howling of monkeys and screeching of exotic birds along the way. Local expert guides assist you in spotting wildlife. Within this labyrinth of jungle rivers lies the area’s main attractions of Tortuguero National Park and the Barra de Colorado Wildlife Refuge. These parks protect a long list of exotic plants and animals, including endangered species such as green macaws, jaguars, and several species of sea turtles.