Sea Turtle Release
Duration
2.5hr
Season
Ago-Jan
Groups
up to 12
Offered
Eng / Spa
Sea Turtle Camp Tour Details
Join the Sea Turtle Conservation Camp in Puerto Vallarta!
Did you know that six out of the seven sea turtle species recognized worldwide nest along Mexico’s coasts? Since 1990, all of them have been under full federal protection. In Puerto Vallarta, the most commonly seen species is the Olive Ridley, or Golfina in Spanish (Lepidochelys olivacea).
Each summer, the beaches of Banderas Bay become a sanctuary for these incredible creatures. Female Olive Ridley turtles leave the safety of the ocean to lay their eggs in the warm sands of our coastline. After nesting, they return to the sea, entrusting their offspring to nature.
Around 50 days later, once the hatchlings are ready to emerge, dedicated volunteers protect them until sunset. This careful timing helps ensure a safer journey to the ocean by reducing the threat of predators like birds and fish.
Be a part of this miracle.
By joining our Sea Turtle Camp, you’ll not only witness one of nature’s most awe-inspiring events—you’ll actively help protect it. Assist in the release of baby turtles, support the tireless efforts of Mexican biologists and volunteers, and learn firsthand how turtle camps work. You may even have the chance to “plant” your own turtle nest!
Make a difference—one turtle at a time.
Available days
- Monday, Wednesday and Friday. (except holidays)
Highlights
- Educational talk about sea turtles
- Biologist guide
- Small groups
- Visit to the sea turtle camp
- Donation to the sea turtle camp conservation program
Includes
- Ground transportation in vans with a/c
- Talk about biology, ecology and conservation of turtles in Mexico and Puerto Vallarta
- Visit and tour in a Sea Turtle Camp
- Soft drinks, juices and granola bars. Water to refill
Know Before You Book
- If there are no baby turtles on the day of your tour, our sales staff will contact you to re-schedule your reservation.
- Not recommended for children under 2 years old or pregnant women.
- Babies and Infants: For the short drive, infants must be seated on your lap.
- People with back, neck, heart or knee problems are not recommended.
- Parents will assist children under 7 in carrying a coconut to the sand, where they will release the hatchlings into the ocean.
- All participants must be able to walk 1 mile in total on sand and loose gravel.
- Not accessible for wheelchairs or strollers.
Itinerary
- 6:00 PM – Check-In at Ecotours Office
Meet your guide and fellow guests as we begin with a fascinating introduction to the biology and ecology of sea turtles. This informative talk sets the stage for a meaningful and immersive experience. Following the talk, guests will have a chance to use the restroom before boarding our comfortable vehicles for a short drive to the beach. - 🚶 Walk to the Sea Turtle Camp.
From the drop-off point, we’ll take a gentle walk of less than half a mile (approximately 656 yards) along the beach, passing through sand and loose gravel. Along the way, our guide will share insights about the local coastal environment, including the vital role of mangroves in the ecosystem. - 🐢 Arrival at Sea Turtle Camp
Upon arrival, your guide will introduce you to the Sea Turtle Camp and explain the conservation efforts taking place—including nest monitoring and incubation practices. - 🌅 Sunset Turtle Release
At the sunset, our biologist provide one coconut and will tell you how to help the little turtles get safe and sound to the ocean. - 🚌 8:15 PM – Return to Ecotours Office
We’ll take a short drive back to the Ecotours office. Guests are welcome to use the restroom or arrange transportation from this point.
What to bring
- Bring your refillable water bottle or buy your bottle at cost with us and get 10% discount in our store.
- Comfortable clothes, insect repellent, comfortable shoes or sandals for walking on sand, camera, umbrela or raincoat (rain season).
Cancellation Policies
- Cancellations 36 hours before, 100% refund
- Cancellations 25 hours before, 50% refund
- Cancellations the day of tour, no shows or being late, No refund, forfeit the entire amount
- Activities can be changed due to natural conditions (there were no hatchlings, hurricane threat, storms or swell)
- All guests must sign a risk acknowledgment
- No tour is refundable once it is taken
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