Baby Sea turtles release in Puerto Escondido

If you’re visiting Puerto Escondido and looking for an activity that combines nature, education, and genuine purpose, a baby sea turtle release might just be the perfect choice. This tour offers more than just a wildlife sighting—it’s an interactive journey that helps support local conservation efforts and connects you directly with the Pacific coast’s incredible marine life.

What makes this experience stand out? First, it involves meeting hatchlings only an hour old, which emphasizes the fragility and importance of their survival. Second, the guides are certified and bilingual, making the experience accessible and informative for all visitors. Third, the sunset release adds a touch of magic, turning the trip into a truly memorable evening.

However, it’s worth noting that the experience is a bit on the shorter side, at 2.5 hours, including transportation, and the price of $48 per person might seem steep for some, especially given the limited time. Still, for anyone passionate about wildlife or eager to contribute to conservation, the value is clear. This tour is best suited for eco-conscious travelers, families, or anyone wanting a meaningful activity that’s both fun and educational.

Good To Know

• Supports conservation of three sea turtle species on the Pacific coast.
• Guided by certified experts who speak both English and Spanish.
• Includes transportation, camp entry, and bottled water, making it a seamless experience.
• Offers a chance to see hatchlings and be part of their release into the ocean.
• Short duration (2.5 hours) makes it a manageable activity during a busy trip.
• Perfect for families, eco-enthusiasts, and those wanting an authentic wildlife experience.

You can check if your dates are available here:

An In-Depth Look at the Turtle Release Tour

The Setting: Palmarito Beach and Its Conservation Camp

The tour takes you to Palmarito beach, just 20 minutes from Puerto Escondido, along the federal highway 200. This stretch of coastline is a quiet, less commercialized spot perfect for quiet wildlife encounters. The camp, managed by conservationists, offers a glimpse into the delicate process of sea turtle incubation and protection. Here, hatchlings are carefully cared for before their big journey to the open ocean.

The camp’s controlled environment ensures the hatchlings’ safety, and guides are eager to share insights about the three species of turtles involved: Olive Ridley, Green or Black turtle, and Leatherback. Learning about their distinct characteristics, behaviors, and threats adds depth to the experience, making the release more meaningful.

The Itinerary and What You’ll Do

Pick-up and Transportation: The tour begins with a convenient pickup at 13 different locations in Puerto Escondido, including popular spots like Playa Zicatela, Bacocho, and Villa Resorts. The vans are comfortable and punctual, with about 25 minutes each way to Palmarito beach. This organized transportation ensures you’re relaxed and ready for the experience without logistical worries.

Camp Visit and Guided Tour: Once at Palmarito, you’ll meet the conservation team and learn about the vital work they do to protect these endangered species. The guides, fluent in both English and Spanish, will detail the sea turtle life cycle, from incubation to the challenges they face in the wild. Expect a walk along the beach, where you’ll see hatchlings only an hour old—tiny, fragile, and full of potential.

Sunset Release: The highlight comes at sunset, when you’ll help release the baby turtles into the sea. This part of the experience is described as a “real highlight” by visitors, with Viktoria from Germany noting, “Seeing the camp and the baby turtles, and releasing them yourself, was a real highlight.” The sunset creates a magical backdrop, emphasizing the connection between nature and human effort.

Return Journey: After the release, the group boards the van again for the 25-minute ride back to Puerto Escondido, with drop-offs at the original pick-up points. The entire process lasts around 2.5 hours, making it a manageable evening activity.

The Experience: What’s Special about It?

• Educational Value: The guides do a fantastic job explaining not just the turtles’ biology but also the threats they face, such as climate change, fishing bycatch, and habitat loss. This background enhances your appreciation for the importance of conservation work.

• Authentic Wildlife Encounter: Meeting hatchlings so soon after emerging from their eggs creates a sense of intimacy with the natural world. It’s a rare chance to witness the beginning of a life journey that is both hopeful and fragile.

• Supporting Local Conservation: Your participation directly funds and supports the camp’s ongoing efforts to protect these species, so there’s a feel-good factor to the activity.

• Bilingual Guides: Fluent guides ensure everyone understands the significance of their actions, making the experience accessible whether you speak English or Spanish.

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Practical Details and Considerations

Price and Value: At $48 per person, the experience may seem a bit pricey, but when you factor in transportation, guided insights, and the contribution to conservation, many find it worthwhile. As Viktoria from Germany mentioned, “The value for money was good,” especially considering the meaningful nature of the activity.

Timing and Duration: The tour runs in the late afternoon, with pick-ups starting at 1 pm and the actual release happening around sunset. The timing aligns well with the natural behavior of the turtles and the visual beauty of the setting.

What to Bring: Remember to pack beachwear—light clothes, flip-flops, and sun protection—and bring cash for any additional tips or souvenirs. The tour provides bottled water, but you might want to carry sunglasses or a hat.

Limitations: The experience isn’t suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 years old, mainly due to the walking and beach terrain involved.

Authentic Traveler Insights

Sophia from the UK found the experience charming but noted, “It’s a bit on the pricey side for the experience,” highlighting that travelers should weigh the cost against their interest in conservation and wildlife encounters. Conversely, Alexander from Italy described it as “an unforgettable experience,” mentioning the guides’ care and the emotional impact of seeing the hatchlings take their first swim. Viktoria from Germany appreciated the “very beautiful sunset” and the “friendly guide,” emphasizing how smoothly the transportation and overall logistics worked.

These perspectives underscore that the tour’s success often hinges on the guides’ friendliness, the sunset ambiance, and the chance to directly participate in wildlife release.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

This experience excels at combining education, authentic wildlife interaction, and meaningful conservation support. It’s particularly suited for travelers who want to contribute positively to local ecosystems while engaging in a memorable activity. Families with children will appreciate the gentle, educational nature of the tour, while eco-conscious travelers will value the direct support for turtle conservation.

If you’re looking for a sunset activity that balances fun, learning, and purpose, this tour offers a rare opportunity to witness the beginning of a turtle’s life and feel part of something bigger. Just be prepared for a short, impactful experience that leaves a lasting impression.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for young children? Yes, children generally enjoy the chance to see hatchlings and participate in the release. Just keep in mind the walking involved and make sure they’re comfortable on the terrain.

What is included in the price? The tour fee covers round-trip transportation, entry to the conservation camp, and bottled water. Additional costs might include tips or souvenirs.

How long does the tour last? The entire experience, including pickup, the visit, and the sunset release, takes about 2.5 hours.

Are guides bilingual? Yes, the guides speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication and educational insights.

Is it safe for everyone? The tour is generally safe, but it’s not suitable for wheelchair users or those over 95 due to walking and beach terrain.

Can I cancel or reschedule? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. You can also reserve now and pay later, offering flexibility for your trip planning.

Final Thoughts

For travelers interested in wildlife, conservation, and experiencing the true essence of Puerto Escondido’s natural environment, this baby sea turtle release is a gem. It offers not only a chance to witness a rare, delicate moment in nature but also to contribute meaningfully to the protection of endangered species. The guides’ knowledge and bilingual approach make the experience accessible and enriching, while the sunset setting adds that extra layer of magic.

While it might be a brief activity, its impact is lasting—reminding us of our role in safeguarding the natural world. If you’re seeking an authentic and eco-friendly adventure, this tour should definitely be on your list.

You can check if your dates are available here: