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Costa Rica's breathtaking turtle nesting and hatching season, known as the 'arribada,' offers a remarkable natural spectacle that captivates wildlife enthusiasts and students alike. If you're planning a school trip to Costa Rica or a school science trip to explore the wonders of nature, don't miss out on this incredible experience. Here's a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of it:
Witnessing the Arribada:
Timing: Plan your visit between March and November to coincide with the nesting and hatching season. The months of June to October typically offer the most active sightings.
Types of Turtles: Costa Rica is home to five endangered species of sea turtles: Olive Ridley, Green Sea turtle, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and Leatherback.
Protected Reserves for Turtle Watching:
Tortuguero: Located on the northern Caribbean coast, Tortuguero is a haven for green sea turtles, hawksbills, and massive leatherbacks. Witness the nesting season from March to October. Appleseed Expeditions Turtle Tour - Tortuguero
Ostional Beach: Experience the Olive Ridley arribada near Nosara on the Pacific Coast Nicoya Peninsula. The peak season is from September to November, with occasional sightings in July and August.
Other Notable Locations:
Playa Grande: Explore the nesting grounds for Leatherback turtles in Las Baulas National Marine Park between October and February.
Nancite Beach: Obtain permission from the park ranger to visit this remote beach in Santa Rosa National Park, where Olive Ridleys nest in abundance during September and October.
Guided Educational Tours and Conservation: Enhance your learning experience with guided tours led by experts. These tours not only offer insights into turtle biology and conservation but also emphasize responsible eco-tourism practices. Appleseed Expeditions provides school educational tours designed to enrich students' understanding of wildlife conservation. Appleseed Expeditions Educational Tours to Costa Rica
Logistics:
When visiting Ostional, remember to plan for the river crossing along the route, which may impact rental car insurance.
Ensure compliance with beach closures after 6 pm to protect nesting turtles and their eggs.
By participating in a school trip to Costa Rica or a school science trip focused on turtle conservation, students can immerse themselves in the wonders of nature while contributing to vital conservation efforts. Don't miss this extraordinary opportunity to witness one of the world's most incredible natural phenomena up close.