Reserva Playa Tortuga

Reserva Playa Tortuga is a non-profit research and training center near Ojochal, approximately 1 hour drive from Paradise Lodge. Various animal species of the region are researched here with the aim of making the population aware of the importance of protecting the habitats. This is done, among other things, by letting locals and tourists participate in the release of baby turtles.

Mostly between July and December the turtles, mainly olive ridley turtles, come to the beach to lay their eggs – an average of 100 per nest. Staff and volunteers then relocate most of the nests – to the protected area of ​​Reserva Playa Tortuga, where the eggs are monitored and guarded around the clock. When the babies hatch, data such as weight and size are determined and documented before the little ones are released on the beach.

Without human intervention, the nests would be exposed to rising sea levels, natural predators such as crabs or dogs, and poachers. Thus, the work of Reserva Playa Tortuga is an important contribution to the conservation of this endangered species. Donations are welcome.