Private Turtle Nesting Tour

Seasonal: Mid-November to Mid-April. One of Costa Rica’s Most Extraordinary Wildlife Experiences.

Departure: 5:30 PM

From mid-November to mid-April, Olive Ridley and Green Pacific sea turtles come ashore under the cover of darkness to nest on the protected beaches north of Playa Grande — one of the most extraordinary wildlife events on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. This is a private tour — just your group, a local bilingual conservationist guide, and the beach.

The tour departs at 5:30 PM and follows the coastline to the nesting sites, arriving as darkness settles. From there, the guide leads the group quietly along the sand, tracking turtle activity and positioning the group for the best possible observation. When a turtle emerges from the surf and begins nesting, the group observes at close range — watching the animal excavate the nest, deposit her eggs, cover the nest, and return to the sea. The full process can take 30 minutes to an hour per turtle.

Red light cameras are provided to all guests — standard photography flash is strictly prohibited, as it disorients the turtles. The tour may also include the chance to witness hatchlings from previously laid nests emerging, depending on conditions. A conservationist guide shares detailed insights into nesting cycles, species behavior, and the ongoing protection efforts at these beaches throughout the evening.

Minimum age is 5 years. Guests should be prepared to walk on soft sand, wait patiently between sightings, and move quietly at all times. The tour is not suitable for guests with mobility difficulties, night vision problems, recent surgery, or current physical injuries.