Costa Rica | Sea Turtle Research and Rainforest Ecology

About this trip

The beaches of Tortuguero on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast serve as some of the most important nesting sites in the Western Hemisphere for the endangered green turtle. In addition, leatherback, hawksbill, and loggerhead sea turtles also nest here. Since 1959, the Sea Turtle Conservancy’s research and conservation initiatives have been instrumental in protecting sea turtles from immediate extinction, as well as raising awareness and protection for sea turtles across the globe.

On this 9-day program, you will not just observe biodiversity, but also play a key role in protecting wildlife and understanding the importance of conservation.
Take part in turtle monitoring research currently underway in Tortuguero to protect the endangered green sea turtle. By working directly with nesting turtles in their natural habitat, you will gain a deep appreciation of the ecosystem and conservation efforts underway.

The journey continues in the Caribbean lowland rainforest of Sarapiquí, where you will explore the ecology of the rainforest and have independent time to enjoy the amenities.

PLEASE NOTE: Sea turtle research involves strenuous, 4-hour walks on the beach in the dark each night.

Highlights

Assist researchers at the Sea Turtle Conservancy with green sea turtle nest monitoring and beach patrols along the black sand beaches of Tortuguero.
Explore the remote coastal rainforests of Tortuguero National Park.
Witness the biodiversity in the primary rainforest of Selva Verde Rainforest Reserve.

San Jose

Jul 26, 2025

Upon arrival at the international airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. The rest of the day is free to explore the capital on your own. Join you guide for a welcome orientation at 5 pm followed by a lecture on tropical ecology at 6 pm. Dinner will be at the hotel at 7 pm. We suggest arriving no later than 4:00 pm so that you will be at the hotel in time for the lecture and dinner. Program includes one group transfer. We can make additional arrangements for participants arriving on different flights at an extra cost, or we can provide information on taxi service available at the airport. Check in starts at 3 p.m.

Dinner included

Overnight at Radisson San Jose

Tortuguero

Jul 27, 2025

After breakfast transfer to dock for your private boat transfer to Tortuguero (end of guide services). Upon arrival meet with the Sea Turtle Conservancy staff and get an orientation to the turtle research program. Tonight you will have your first outing on the beach.