Leatherback hatchling release

Their First Journey: From Sand to Sea

Walk along a protected beach in the Pacuare Reserve on Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, and join a group of leatherback turtle hatchlings on the most important journey of their lives: their first trip to the sea.

With local guides and in small groups, you’ll learn why these turtles, the largest in the world, need so much help to survive, and how this project works to protect them.

Watching them make their way across the sand, one by one, is a moving and eye-opening experience. Your visit also supports conservation efforts to protect a threatened species.

Hatchling releases depend on when the nests hatch, so they cannot always be guaranteed.

 

Sea Turtle Hatchling Release Policies - Pacuare Reserve:

• Reservations: We recommend booking at least 72 hours in advance. If you arrive without a reservation, we will assist you subject to availability.
• Punctuality: Arrive 15 minutes before departure: the activity begins at the scheduled time.
• Cancellations and changes: If you notify us 48 hours in advance, you can reschedule at no charge. After that period, or if you do not show up, a fee may apply
• What to wear: Wear comfortable, dark-colored clothing and closed-toe shoes for walking on the sand.
• Accessibility: Some areas have sandy and uneven terrain.
• Children: Children are welcome as long as they are accompanied by an adult.
• Pets: For safety and to protect wildlife, pets are not allowed.
• Respectful behavior: To protect the hatchlings, we ask that you speak quietly, follow the guides' instructions, and do not touch the turtles. Smoking and alcohol consumption are not permitted during the activity.
• Photography and video: You may take photos and videos, but no flash or white light, as these disorient the hatchlings.

Leatherback hatchling release tour specifications

 

Duration: approximately 3 hours.

Season: March to June.

Location: leatherback turtle conservation project, Pacuare Reserve, northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica.

• Round-trip boat transfer from Lirio Lodge to the conservation project.
• Life jackets for all participants.
• Certified local guides with experience in wildlife, environmental education, and conservation.
• Guided walk along the protected beaches where the nests are located.
• Accompaniment during the release of newly hatched hatchlings
• Educational talk about the life cycle of sea turtles, the challenges they face from birth, and the threats they encounter.
• Small groups for a more intimate experience that is respectful of the environment.

 

 

What to bring to the baby leatherback turtle release tour

• Comfortable, dark-colored clothing and closed-toe shoes for walking on sand and uneven terrain.
• Mosquito repellent, essential at the beach.
• A light jacket or raincoat in case it's breezy or rainy.
• A red-light flashlight, as white light disorients the hatchlings.

Leatherback Hatchling Release Tour Amenities

• Water transportation included: Round-trip transfer between the lodge and the activity location.

• Local guides: Guidance throughout the experience to learn about the conservation project and the importance of protecting sea turtles.

• Safety equipment: Life jackets for the water excursion.

• Small-group experience: A more intimate activity that respects the natural environment.

• Access to protected beaches: Visit beaches associated with the conservation project, subject to access conditions.

• Environmental education: Learn about the sea turtles’ life cycle and the conservation work carried out at Pacuare Reserve.

Leatherback turtle hatchling release tour schedule

The experience takes place from March to June.