for environmental conservation: sea turtles, bird monitoring, coastal monitoring, and permaculture.
Activities vary slightly depending on the time of year you wish to visit. However, during both seasons, we offer two theoretical training sessions: one on bird monitoring and another on sea turtle biology. We also offer workshops such as coconut cheese making, seed bomb making, and tropical fruit tasting.
During the dry season, the number of turtles arriving on the beach to lay their eggs is much lower, reduced to one or two turtles per month. Therefore, we no longer conduct night patrols. During December and January, hatchlings can still be seen emerging. The rest of the year, volunteers help us with daytime walks during the week to detect turtle tracks or activity. If any are found, we go together to relocate the nest to another area of the beach. As the season approaches, in May and June, designated areas are set up on the beach, signs about the nesting season are posted, and volunteers sometimes help with changing the sand in the hatchery. As for the bird program, it consists of observing and learning about bird behavior, identifying birds, collecting and studying data, and planting native plants that birds use for food or shelter. Coastal monitoring consists of weekly beach cleanups, during which the waste found is analyzed, and sea level rise and sand erosion are studied. Regarding the fourth pillar, permaculture, compost is produced and organic waste is managed, natural fertilizers and eco-friendly repellents are made, and soil care and basic garden maintenance are carried out
During the wet season:
Turtle Program: Two night patrols are conducted weekly throughout the season. Patrols typically take place between 8 p.m. and midnight. The turtle hatchling release and exhumation season begins in September.
Bird Program: During this season, the number of bird monitoring sessions per week is reduced as we focus on night patrols, and the river's opening sometimes hinders this activity. However, we continue to conduct them.
Permaculture work and coastal monitoring remain unchanged; they are the same in both seasons.
Regarding the activity schedule, during the dry season, we work Monday through Friday mornings. On bird monitoring days, we begin at 6 a.m. and take a break from 8 a.m. to 9 a.m. for breakfast, after which we carry out one of the other activities mentioned. During the rainy season, we work Monday through Friday, but the schedule sometimes changes due to night patrols.
In total, the program consists of 20 hours of volunteer work per week, and weekends are free to take excursions, tours, etc.
Volunteers will work alongside Manuel and Alba, the NaturaViva team, who coordinate all activities and share their knowledge in permaculture, regenerative agriculture, and coastal conservation. They provide guidance and create a collaborative and hands-on environment where learning is part of the daily experience. In permaculture and regenerative agriculture activities, we expect volunteers to be proactive, open-minded, and willing to engage in physical work. Tasks may include planting, soil preparation, composting, and maintaining sustainable systems. No prior experience is required, but a genuine interest in sustainability and a willingness to learn are essential.
For coastal monitoring and beach clean-ups, volunteers should be committed and responsible, understanding the importance of protecting marine ecosystems. These activities involve collecting and documenting plastic waste, helping us track environmental impact while actively contributing to cleaner beaches. Volunteers can expect to gain practical skills in sustainable living, agriculture, and environmental conservation. We also provide guidance and learning opportunities through hands-on work and informal workshops, creating a meaningful and educational experience.
