Volunteering Sea Turtle Conservation, Costa Rica

Join the sea turtle conservation program in the stunning Pacific coastal region of Costa Rica and make a significant impact on the preservation of these incredible marine animals!

As a volunteer, you will engage in essential conservation efforts, including night patrols to protect nesting turtles and data collection for research. Your work will help safeguard sea turtle nests from threats while providing you with a hands-on, immersive experience in wildlife conservation.

You'll also participate in community outreach programs to raise awareness about the importance of marine conservation and sustainable practices. From assisting with hatchling releases to learning about sustainable living through upcycling projects, every task you take on plays a vital role in the preservation of these majestic creatures.

Explore Costa Rica’s breathtaking beaches, work alongside like-minded volunteers, and contribute to meaningful change in this vibrant ecosystem.

Topics and activities of the Sea Turtle Conservation Trip

As a volunteer, you will be actively involved in a variety of essential conservation tasks. These include nighttime beach patrols to protect sea turtles, helping to monitor and manage sea turtle hatcheries, and contributing to the collection of critical research data.

You will also have the opportunity to work closely with the local community, promoting sustainable practices and increasing awareness of wildlife conservation efforts. Your time spent here will be an enriching experience, allowing you to connect with nature and make a lasting difference in protecting sea turtles.

Arrival and orientation in Costa Rica

Your journey to the project site begins with a trip to Puerto Jiménez, where you'll spend the night and gather any supplies you may need. From Puerto Jiménez, a colectivo will take you to the project site on the Osa Peninsula, where you’ll be greeted by the staff.

Upon arrival, you will participate in an orientation session to familiarize yourself with the project, daily routines, and safety procedures. The first day includes training on how to conduct patrols, collect data, and handle turtles and eggs.

Accommodation and board

You will stay in a shared volunteer house, equipped with bunkbeds fitted with mosquito nets, communal living spaces, and bathroom facilities with western toilets and showers (cold water only). The project site is remote and primarily powered by solar energy, meaning that resources like electricity and Wi-Fi may be limited depending on the weather. Despite these basic living conditions, the camp is comfortable, built sustainably with upcycled materials, and blends well into the surrounding natural environment.

Leisure time during the project

During your time off, you can relax and enjoy the peaceful environment. Although the beach near the camp is unsuitable for swimming due to strong currents, you’ll have time to explore the scenic surroundings, spot wildlife, or engage in activities such as hiking or birdwatching. Volunteers typically have one rest day per week, and meals are provided daily, featuring locally sourced vegetarian options with occasional meat or fish.

The region of Osa Peninsula

Located on Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula, the project site is set in one of the country’s most biodiverse regions. The peninsula is home to an array of wildlife, including jaguars, monkeys, and exotic birds, in addition to the sea turtles you will be working to protect. Its pristine beaches and rainforests make it a paradise for nature lovers and an ideal location for conservation efforts.

You can find more information about the Sea Turtle Conservation trip here.