Our volunteer program is based on four fundamental pillars for environmental conservation: sea turtles, birdwatching, coastal monitoring, and permaculture. Activities vary slightly depending on the time of year you wish to visit us. However, during both seasons, we offer two theoretical training sessions: one on birdwatching 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 coming ashore to lay their eggs decreases considerably, dropping to just one or two turtles per month. Therefore, we no longer conduct night patrols. During December and January, hatchlings can still be observed emerging. The rest of the year, volunteers assist us with daytime walks on weekdays to look for turtle tracks or activity. If a turtle is 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 established on the beach, signs about the nesting season are posted, and volunteers sometimes help change the sand in the hatchery. The bird program involves 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 debris 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 rainy season:
Turtle program: Two weekly night patrols are conducted throughout the season. The patrols usually take place between 8:00 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. The 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 start at 6:00 a.m. and take a break from 8:00 to 9:00 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 for excursions, guided tours, etc.
During the program, volunteers will work closely with our local conservation team, Manuel, Alba, and Max, learning directly from experienced marine biologists specializing in sea turtle protection. Together, we monitor nesting activity, support hatchling releases, and help protect nests along the beach.
For our part, we offer a valuable learning experience where volunteers gain hands-on knowledge about sea turtle conservation, coastal ecosystems, and responsible environmental practices. We also provide guidance, training, and a supportive environment where they can grow, connect with nature, and make a real impact.
In return, we expect volunteers to be committed, respectful, and eager to learn. Working with sea turtles requires responsibility, patience, and flexibility, as activities often depend on natural cycles and may take place at night. A positive attitude, teamwork, and a genuine interest in conservation are essential.
