Fishing Extension & Add-ons
May 16, 2024Tortuguero, The Little Amazon of Costa Rica!
August 27, 2024
Turtle Nesting: A Magical Event in Costa Rica
Nestled on the northern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, Tortuguero is a haven for nature lovers and paddlers and a crucial sanctuary for sea turtles. Each year, between July and October, this remote village in Costa Rica witnesses one of the most remarkable events in the natural world: the turtle nesting season. During this period, thousands of sea turtles come ashore to lay their eggs on Tortuguero’s pristine beaches, creating a spectacle that can be genuinely emotional and overwhelming.
The nesting process of sea turtles is a delicate and instinct-driven journey. Female turtles, having reached maturity after 20-50 years, return to the beaches where they were born to lay their eggs. This incredible navigational feat is still not entirely understood by scientists.
Witnessing this Phenomenon
Before heading to the beach, participants gather for an orientation session led by experienced guides. During this briefing, guides provide essential information about sea turtle behavior, the species that nest in Tortuguero, and the importance of conservation efforts. They also explain rules and guidelines that must be followed during the tour, such as:
No use of flashlights or flash photography, as bright lights can disorient turtles.
Maintaining a safe distance from the turtles to avoid disturbing them.
Moving quietly and following the guide’s instructions at all times.
Guides lead small groups to specific areas of the beach where nesting activity has been observed. Equipped with red lights, which are less disruptive to turtles, guides carefully escort the group to observe the turtles. Watching a female turtle emerge from the ocean, select a nesting site, dig a pit, and lay her eggs is a mesmerizing experience. The turtle then covers the eggs with sand before returning to the sea.
Later in the season, there’s a chance to see hatchlings emerging from the nest and making their perilous journeys to the ocean. This sight is particularly moving, as the tiny turtles face numerous challenges right from birth.
Participating in a turtle tour in Tortuguero is more than just a wildlife viewing experience or a rare glimpse into the life cycle of these ancient creatures; it’s an opportunity to connect with nature and contribute to conservation efforts. The revenue generated from these tours supports local conservation projects and the community, helping to ensure the protection of sea turtles and their habitats.
