Overview
This sea turtle conservation project is an important contribution to preserving the unique ecosystem and an ideal opportunity for you to contributing to protecting an endangered species, learn about wildlife conservation and, at the same time, enjoy a trip abroad which offers you the chance to get to know Costa Rica from a special perspective.
Details
This volunteer project, located in the stunning Pacific coastal region of Costa Rica, aims at protecting the country’s endangered sea turtles and, in this way, helping the country preserve its many natural wonders for future generations. You will be integrated into the project as a volunteer and – along with other volunteers from all over the world – will assist with research and conservation of animals and their habitats along the coast of Costa Rica.
For once the project aims at protecting the sea turtles, their nests and eggs from dangers like encroaching human habitation along the coast, from predators and natural catastrophes such as coastal erosion or severe flooding. Another very important part of the project is the generation of data about the turtles and their nests as well as the hatchlings to better understand the animals to facilitate the development and implementation of appropriate protective measures.
Sea turtles return to the beach they were born on a regular basis. Therefore, the beach will be patrolled on a regular basis at night to find nesting turtles, collect data and dig up their eggs. In the safe environment of the hatchery these eggs will be buried again and volunteers will keep an attentive eye on them until they hatch. Volunteers will collect the hatched animals and take them to the beach where they will make their way to the sea. Moreover, it is very important to preserve the beaches and include local residents in the conservation work to contribute to their protection. By participating in this project you will have the opportunity to learn about nature conservation work and make an active contribution to preserving Costa Rica’s beautiful and lush nature.
Working in a professional environment, this project will teach you how nature conservation and animal welfare work, how nature reserves are developed and at the same time how you can acquire international experience through interaction with people from different parts of the globe. This is an overseas trip which combines adventure with further education, giving you an insight into the country and its lush nature in a unique way.
Accommodation
The volunteer house includes an open air, shared bedroom with bunkbeds fitted with mosquito nets, communal living spaces, a large kitchen, and bathroom facilities with western toilets and showers (no hot water). The living conditions are basic but comfortable, reflecting the remote nature of the project site.
The camp is solar-powered and primarily constructed with sustainable and upcycled materials. How much power the camp has for light and charging your electronic devices depends on the weather, therefore we ask for your flexibility in this regard – same regarding the wifi.
Testimonial
“Observing the young turtles and seeing them hatch was just breathtaking and so exciting! And the location itself is absolutely stunning.” (Nathalie, 25 years)
Gallery
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About us
NATUCATE is a German agency, specialized in voluntary work, field guide training, nature-oriented educational courses and internships with a focus on nature and species conservation as well as animal protection. Moreover, we create and organize individual sabbaticals; commitment for nature conservation and personal development being in the centre. Sustainable and responsible traveling, so-called ecotourism, as well as nature and adventure travel are further areas of expertise.
Our projects, courses and tours, fulfilling high sustainability standards, enable people – from graduates to best agers – to make an active contribution to protecting and conserving endangered species and ecosystems and, at the same time, to broaden their personal horizon.
Dates, Services, Fees
Dates
The projects start dates are available every Monday.
Services
- Placement in the programme
- Assistance with travel arrangements
- Assistance with selecting travel insurance
- Assistance with booking flights
- Risk coverage certificate
- Pre-departure information pack
- Accommodation during the programme
- Full board during the programme
- Training during the programme
- Transfers
- English-speaking support by long-term experienced staff
- 24/7 support throughout the programme
Fees (2024)
- 3 weeks: 1.250 EUR
- 4 weeks: 1.550 EUR
- 6 weeks: 2.150 EUR
- 8 weeks: 2.750 EUR
- 10 weeks: 3.350 EUR
- 12 weeks: 3.950 EUR
