The experience
About This Tour
Adult (11 and older): $85 / Child (ages 5–10): $85
Immerse yourself in one of nature’s most extraordinary events on our Ostional Turtle Nesting Experience. Each month, for just three nights, olive ridley turtles return in staggering numbers to lay their eggs on Ostional Beach—an awe-inspiring spectacle governed by tides and moon phases. Your bilingual guide will monitor nesting schedules, then escort you under the cover of darkness to witness these ancient mariners laboring on the sand, illuminated only by red lights that safeguard their sensitive nesting areas. Whether you’re lucky enough to see the mass arribada at Ostional or observe solitary turtles and newborn hatchlings at nearby Camaronal, this 3½-hour excursion offers an intimate look at Costa Rica’s coastal wildlife and conservation efforts—leaving you with memories as timeless as the turtles themselves.
- Departure & Return Location
Departure is from your hotel in Sámara or Puerto Carrillo.
If you are arriving from another location, you’re welcome to meet us at our office. We’re located across the street from Roots Bakery, on Sámara’s main road.
- Departure Time
Based on previous turtle activity reports, the approximate starting time is usually between 5:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.
Good to know
What's Included
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Round-trip transportation Round-trip transportation is included in Sámara and Puerto Carrillo downtown areas.
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Bilingual guide (English/Spanish)
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Refuge entrance fee
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Red-light torch lamp For ethical night viewing.
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Snacks Light snacks and bottled water.
Not Included
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Insurance
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Tips
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Additional services
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Excludes anything not specifically listed as included.
What to Bring
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Dark-colored clothing Please wear dark clothing to prevent scaring nesting sea turtles. Long pants are recommended.
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Water-friendly shoes Water-friendly shoes or sandals are recommended. We’ll be crossing a small river along the way.
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Mosquito repellent
Step by step
Itinerary
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Pickup & Departure
We’ll collect you from your hotel in Sámara or Carrillo Town and transfer you in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle toward the nesting refuge.
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Arrival & Orientation
Upon arrival at Ostional or Camaronal Refuge, your guide will provide a brief talk on olive ridley biology, nesting behavior, and the importance of conservation measures.
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Turtle Nesting Observation
Under red-light illumination, quietly follow your guide onto the beach. Watch as turtles excavate their nests and deposit eggs—an ancient ritual that has endured for millennia. During non-arrival days, explore the refuge’s protected areas to spot nesting females, hatchlings, and other marine life.
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Snacks & Q&A
Mid-tour, enjoy light refreshments—tropical fruit and bottled water—while discussing turtle ecology, local conservation initiatives, and how you can help protect these remarkable creatures.
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Return & Drop-off
After your beachside experience, board the vehicle for the drive back to your hotel, arriving by late evening with unforgettable insights into Costa Rica’s coastal wonders.
Before you book
Frequently Asked Questions
We accept payment in Costa Rican colones (CRC) or US dollars (USD). You're welcome to pay in either currency – just let us know your preference in advance, if possible.
We love sharing nature with our guests, and we do our best to provide the best possible experience. However, it's important to remember that wildlife sightings and water visibility can never be guaranteed, as they depend on natural conditions beyond our control. Thank you for your understanding!
If our staff determines that weather conditions are unsafe or unsuitable for the tour, you will have the option to reschedule or receive a full refund. Safety comes first.
Cancellation and prepayment policies may vary depending on the tour operator. Our policy is as follows: Cancellations made 48 hours or more before the activity are eligible for a full refund. If you cancel between 36 and 48 hours before the activity, a 50% refund will be issued. Cancellations made less than 36 hours before the activity are non-refundable.