Parismina
Barra del Parismina is a village of about 600 people located on the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, at the mouth of the Reventazón River. It is located on the Tortuguero canals, half way between Limon and Tortuguero. There is no road to Parismina, it is accessible only by boat or plane. Parismina is about half way between Tortuguero and Limon on the Tortuguero canals. The map coordinates for the village are 10 degrees 18 minutes 23 seconds North, 83 degrees, 21 minutes, 12 seconds West. Parismina is part of the Canton of Siquirres in the Limon Province.
Eco-tourism and sport fishing are the foundation of the village economy.
Sea Turtles
Four different species of sea turtles nest on the beaches at Parismina. Several of these, particularly the leatherback sea turtle, are hovering on the brink of extinction. A large number of leatherback and green sea turtles nest in the black sand dunes of the beaches near Parismina; Hawksbill turtles are occasionally found and Loggerheads have been reported, but are rarely seen.
Until recently, a lack of patrolling on the beaches of Parismina led to widespread poaching. Although poaching remains a problem, the people of Parismina have shown dedication to ending this problem on their beaches.1
Tradition
The residents of Parismina have a culture which includes many Carribean traditions including local dialect and cuisine. A traditional Latino influence is also an important part of the community. The nearest community (a boat ride away) is a big cattle ranching area with a 'vaquero' (cowboy) influence.
Accommodation
At least three guest houses/hotels are available in the town of Parismina. A number of high end fishing lodges specializing in Tarpon and Snook are located short boat rides away. Contact the tourist kiosk at(506) 710-7703 on MWF 2-4PM Costa Rica Time for more information.
Volunteer Program/Homestay Opportunities
The local turtle association recruits volunteers during turtle season (February-September) to assist with turtle beach patrols to combat poaching. Volunteers patrol the beaches to combat poaching and assist with relocating endangered nests to the hatchery.
Asociacion Salvemos Las Tortugas de Parismina - the local turtle association) can arrange homestays (living with a local Costa Rican family) for volunteers. All homestays include housing with a local family, 3 meals, Laundry, turtle training program and nightly turtle patrols on the beach.