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Perfect 4.60rating (12)

Turtle sighting and protection.

location
1 - 12 weeks  ·  Age 18 - 50+
Verified

Highlights

  • Being able to see the turtle in its natural environment.
  • Experience the process of laying eggs.
  • Have the privilege of protecting the eggs and giving them to the nursery for proper care until the baby turtles are born.

Highlights

  • Being able to see the turtle in its natural environment.
  • Experience the process of laying eggs.
  • Have the privilege of protecting the eggs and giving them to the nursery for proper care until the baby turtles are born.
  • Knowing that you are part of turtle conservation.
  • Raise awareness of living in harmony with nature.

  • You don't have to pay anything yet

    Especially good for

    Age 18+
    Singles
    Couples
    Groups

    About the program

    Sea turtles are seriously persecuted for their eggs, meat, and crafts. We need your help to protect them and raise awareness about their conservation.

     Sea turtles are seriously persecuted for their eggs and meat, especially the hawksbill turtle, which is the most endangered due to egg theft, meat consumption, and shell use for crafts. Therefore, it is extremely important that you come and do night patrols to protect the eggs and deliver them to ...

    About the program

     Sea turtles are seriously persecuted for their eggs and meat, especially the hawksbill turtle, which is the most endangered due to egg theft, meat consumption, and shell use for crafts. Therefore, it is extremely important that you come and do night patrols to protect the eggs and deliver them to the nearby hatchery, which has the proper permits. The hatchery will keep them until the turtles hatch and are finally released into the ocean. 

     Turtle season runs from March to August.

     On our Caribbean coast, we have the privilege of seeing three types of sea turtles.

     Leatherback (Dermochelys coriacea). This is the largest sea turtle in the world, measuring up to 2 meters in length and weighing about 600 kilos. It can live an average of 80 years. Its importance to the ecosystem is to help maintain the balance of the jellyfish population.

     Hawksbill (Eretmochelys imbricata).  It is a small to medium-sized turtle, measuring approximately one meter in length and weighing about 80 kilos, and living for about 50 years. Its importance in the ecosystem is helping to maintain coral reefs.

     Green turtle (Chelonia mydas). It can measure 1.2 meters in length and weigh a little over 200 kilos, living for about 80 years. Its importance in ecosystems is helping to maintain the health of seagrass beds and the stability of dunes.

     What do you expect from volunteers? 

     To work in harmony, sharing customs and cultures.

     What can volunteers expect from you? 

     An environment of peace and harmony with nature. 

     THINGS YOU NEED

     You can bring binoculars to better observe nature.

     If you like, bring a solar power bank.

     Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.

     Bring black clothing for the night hike.

     A flashlight with a red light so you can observe the turtle without disturbing it.

     You can store your luggage in bags, as we are in a rainy area. This will protect your luggage while traveling.

    ACCOMMODATION

     The accommodation is a rustic oceanfront cabin with two rooms (each with three bunk beds, accommodating up to six people per room). There is a dining area, kitchen, laundry area, bathroom, and restroom.

     We have electricity through solar panels.

     We have our own potable water.

     I provide pillows and linens.

     NOTE: Internet access is limited, and you will only have access to the Kolbi line on the beach in front of the cabin. You will receive access upon arrival at the project.

     The volunteers will be doing their activities near the accommodation, always accompanied by me or a trusted local.

     


    Typical day

     A typical volunteer day begins with breakfast at 8:00 a.m.

     At 9:00 a.m., various activities begin, such as: garden cleaning, beach cleaning, trail cleaning, garbage collection and sorting, making or repairing things using bamboo, cabin maintenance, helping a local person with an activity (such as ...

    Typical day

     A typical volunteer day begins with breakfast at 8:00 a.m.

     At 9:00 a.m., various activities begin, such as: garden cleaning, beach cleaning, trail cleaning, garbage collection and sorting, making or repairing things using bamboo, cabin maintenance, helping a local person with an activity (such as coconut harvesting, sorting, peeling), and having the opportunity to help and see how artisanal coconut oil extraction is done.

     Lunch is provided at 1:00 p.m.

     Then at 2:00 p.m., depending on the morning activity, various activities continue, or the afternoon is simply free for the volunteer to enjoy reading a book, relaxing in a hammock, enjoying the ocean if it's ready for swimming, or doing something they enjoy.

     Dinner is then provided at 7:00 p.m.

     Night walks will take place starting at 8:00 p.m., and their duration will depend largely on the distance the turtle is located. The maximum walk is 7 kilometers one way and 7 kilometers back.

     My goal isn't just for the volunteer to come and work; I'd like them to have the opportunity to explore the area and enjoy the flora and fauna, raising awareness about the importance of caring for and living in harmony with nature.


    Free-time activities

     Free time can be spent in a hammock, reading a book, playing cards, dominoes, swimming or bathing if the sea is suitable for it at that time, you can take a boat ride and help a local, on the weekend if there are more than 5 volunteers and they agree, a trip to Tortuguero National Park can be ...

    Free-time activities

     Free time can be spent in a hammock, reading a book, playing cards, dominoes, swimming or bathing if the sea is suitable for it at that time, you can take a boat ride and help a local, on the weekend if there are more than 5 volunteers and they agree, a trip to Tortuguero National Park can be organized leaving at 6 am from the project and returning at 6 pm to the project for a reasonable cost, also a weekend trip to Cahuita National Park, Puerto Viejo beach, Cocles beach, Punta Uva beach, Manzanillo beach can be organized for a reasonable additional cost. Also the weekend can be spent with local people and learn about their customs and dances.


    Requirements

    Requirements

    Minimum Age: 18 years

    In order to join the program you need to be at least 18 years old on the program start date. There might be exemptions if you can provide the permission of your legal guardian(s) or if your are accompanied by your parents.

    Language Skills

    You need to speak English (basic level) or English (basic level)

    Nationality Restrictions

    No restrictions. Helping hands from all over the world are welcome.

    Time Commitment

    Your helping hand will be required on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Friday

    What's Included

    What's Included

    On-site Services

     The fee includes accommodations, meals, overnight excursions, entry and exit from Bataan to the Goshen dock, boat entry and exit from the Goshen dock to the project, a weekly trip to the other side of the island, and the Kolbi line for limited internet access.

     Volunteers do not need to worry about transportation to and from the project. They simply get off the bus in Bataan, Matina, and will be picked up by a trusted, pre-booked private shuttle for their final trip, where a boat will be waiting for them to enter the lodge.

    Accommodation

     The accommodation is a rustic oceanfront cabin with two rooms (each with three bunk beds, sleeping up to six people). There is a dining area, kitchen, laundry area, bathroom, and restroom.

     We have electricity through solar panels.

     We have our own water and drinking water.

     I provide pillows and linens.

     We have a wood-burning stove and a gas stove.

     It is a very peaceful place surrounded by nature.

    Food & Beverages

     Meals are predominantly vegetarian, with meat served two or three times a week.

     Typical Costa Rican dishes will also be served, such as gallo pinto, Caribbean chicken with palm hearts and coconut milk, tortillas, and more.

     Coffee, hot chocolate, or tea will be available whenever you like.

     You can also enjoy delicious agua de pipa (coconut water).

     A fruit will be provided daily.

    Internet Access

    Limited access at the project site
    You don't have to pay anything yet

    What's NOT included?

    What's NOT included?

    Airport Pickup at Limon International Airport

    An airport pickup isn't included within the program fees either.

    Flight Tickets

    The nearest airport is Limon International Airport (LIO) in Limon. We assist you to find cheap flights to Costa Rica. FIND CHEAP FLIGHTS

    Travel Insurance

    Going abroad is an adventure and it is always best to be prepared. Sudden illness or injury, cancellation or theft - a travel insurance for Costa Rica provides security and is a plus to have. GET A QUOTE

    Vaccines

    If you are intending to volunteer in Costa Rica you should seek medical advice before starting your social journey. Check your required vaccinations for Costa Rica. VACCINE CHECKER

    Details on arrival

     Turtle season runs from March to August.

    HOW TO GET THERE

    When you arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport in the province of Alajuela, approximately 150 kilometers from the project, you can be met by pre-arranged private transportation at an additional cost to the program if the volunteer so desires.

    Another economical option is public transportation. I will provide you with the website link to purchase bus tickets so you can travel from the capital, San José, to Bataan de Matina in the province of Limón. There, pre-arranged private transportation will be waiting to take you to the boat pickup location at the Goshen dock.

    We will follow up with you on your journey to the project.

    Important information to keep in mind when arriving in Costa Rica

    •          When you go through immigration controls, if you cannot find the person who will be waiting for you (if you have arranged a pickup), do not leave the airport.  Remember that you can contact the number of the person who will pick you up, with whom you have previously spoken.

    •         If you don't have local currency (cash), you can withdraw it from ATMs or go to the currency exchange office at the airport. Remember, there are no currency exchange offices at the project site. Note: almost everywhere in Costa Rica accepts dollars.

     I'll send you the links to purchase bus tickets and the location of the bus terminal when you make your reservation.


    Availability
    Jan Feb Mar Apr May Jun Jul Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

    Program Fees

    $390 per week 1 - 12 weeks Age 18 - 50+

    Payment methods

    Visa Master Card Maestro American Express PayPal

    NO CREDIT CARD FEES


    Duration

    1 - 12 weeks

    Deposit

    Reserve your spot with just a few clicks and a small, secure deposit. You can pay by credit card, PayPal, or other convenient methods.


    Final Payment

    You’ll agree on the final payment method with your local organization during the application process. This final payment is only due closer to the start of your trip.

    You don't have to pay anything yet

    4.60
    12 reviews

    Location


    Meet your project coordinator

    Dora Enid
    12
    reviews
    4.60
    Perfect
    2019
    Founded

    Verified

      Excellent response rate
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    Travel dates

    1. - 1. Jan 1

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