Volunteer in Sea Turtle Conservation Caribbean

The Volunteer Turtle Conservation project was established in 2004 and takes place in a biological reserve in the northern region of the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. The founder of the project is rather unique and has the special attention and support of various worldwide organizations around the world.

Poachers, fishing nets and other threats are the cause of an alarming decline in turtles being born on this beach. In particular, the 10 km covered by the project is in danger since it has no protection whatsoever. The project is run by a non-profit organization and can only stay successful if volunteers participate in the project. With the contribution of volunteers it is possible to help with the protection of the sea turtles and the improvement of the living conditions of the local inhabitants.

Please Note: This project seeks volunteers who have a true desire to help with the conservation of turtles. The project site is located quite remotely and there will not always be access to hot water, electricity, telephone or the internet. But most of these facilities can be found in a small town located not to far from the project site.

Your role as a volunteer

The project, in which all 45 inhabitants of the area participate, has three main activities:

The Volunteer Project
Volunteers can help with the realization of the project's objectives by patrolling the beaches together with the local inhabitants, supporting the agricultural activities (mowing, sowing, digging and harvesting) and in the off-season, prevent illegal fishing and hunting. Construction activities (for example new cabinas) and creating the ideal environment for turtles to lay their eggs are crucial towards the success of the project.

Eco-tourism
Tortuguero is the most famous area for observing turtles in Costa Rica and it attracts a steady stream of tourists year round. Due to this tourism, the area is beginning to become developed and problems such as pollutions are on the rise.
The project offers a unique location and in cooperation with the local inhabitants, the project can offer guided tours through the jungle and turtle observations. These activities generate money, which can be invested in the project and indirectly into the living conditions of the locals.

Organic Agriculture
One of the project activities is organic agriculture. We cultivate products for the European and American food and pharmaceutical market. The local inhabitants are participants in these agricultural activities and therefore support these in all facets, such as mowing, sowing, digging and harvesting.

Program Schedule

Depending on the type of work that you are performing, your hours can vary between 4-6 hours in the morning, afternoon or night. Patrolling activities will typically be performed at night while research is conducted during the day. We must stress that sometimes the work can be very physically demanding and the emphasis of the project is strongly (and happily) on conservation.

Project Location

The project is situated on the Caribbean beach of Costa Rica, 1 km north of the mouth of the Pacuare River. It covers 10 km of coastline and has a total surface of 800 hectares. The beach is part of the 50 km stretch between Tortuguero National Park and the harbor of Limón. The area is not only unique in every way, but is also famous as being the site where the four largest species of Marine turtles (Leatherback, Hawksbill, Loggerhead and the Green Turtle) come to lay their eggs.

Program Requirements & What kind of skills you need to go on this type of placement

The turtle conservation projects are designed to allow our volunteers to have hands-on experience in marine turtle conservation. No prior knowledge or experience in turtle conservation is necessary. Volunteers should enjoy manual work and working with wildlife and be prepared to work unusual hours as turtle nesting typically occurs during the night.

Suggested resources to be brought to project

Flashlight, batteries, hiking shoes, sun block, repellent, rain clothes, hat or cap, books and a mosquito net. Most people do not take pills against Malaria, but if you want to ensure your safety and health, you should take them.

Accommodation & Transportation

You will sleep in a nice and clean western style cabina, with teal floor, bathroom and no electricity. It sleeps up to 8 persons.
There are no transport arrangements as volunteers will live on camp close to the nesting grounds.

Activities and Excursions around project location

The park extends 22km along the coast of the Caribbean ocean and is composed of a bewildering maze of serpentine channels where wildlife such as monkeys, turtles, crocodiles, manatees and other amazing fauna and flora reside. You can rent a boat and explore these intertwining channels and rivers. You can also go on hikes along the beach and into forest areas in hopes of spotting wildlife and climb up to some of the most amazing view points on the Caribbean coast. The park is also close by Puerto Limon where you can relax on its expansive beaches, experience Caribbean culture and enjoy shopping and nightlife.