Five Amazing Places to Save Turtles for International Turtle Day

September 1, 2022

Let’s face it, sea turtles have the best taste in destinations! They are drawn to wide open, sandy, warm beaches in some of the most beautiful places on Earth, so supporting or taking part in conservation programs is super enjoyable. We’re thrilled to work with amazing tour operators and organizations that offer travellers fun and fulfilling experiences and the chance to connect with other like-minded travellers.

Have a look at some of our favourite programs that help save sea turtles:

Sea Turtle Conservation in Greece – Global Volunteer International (GVI)

Photo Credit: GVI

Venture to Greece on a conservation program that is making strides in the conservation of Greece’s sea turtle populations. Join other like-minded volunteers in a beautiful, quiet fishing town, while participating in activities to help restore sea turtle populations. In your free time, enjoy access to beautiful nature reserves and old-world history, fabulous cuisine and unbelievable fun!

Whale Watching & Sea Turtle Research – RED Travel Mexico

Photo Credit: RED Travel Mexico

Join local fisherman guides in this locally based conservation effort as you learn to tag sea turtles, whale watch, and enjoy all that Magdalena Bay in Mexico has to offer. Arrive in La Paz and enjoy a night to explore the city on your own. Depart for the secluded island where the campsite and turtle monitoring base is situated.

After orientation, get up close with the turtles when you help catch, weigh, and then release them back into the water. You will also have time to explore the beautiful area of Magdalena Bay with a guide, whale watch and enjoy delicious, fresh-caught seafood!

Cuba Sea Turtle Adventure – SEE Turtles

Photo Credit: Rene Perez Massola

Take part in a unique opportunity to explore the culture and natural wonders of Cuba with this sea turtle adventure. Wander around the streets of Havana, enjoy traditional music, and even take a dance lesson! Meet Dr. Julia Azanza, head of the Guanahacabibes program and Dr. Patricia Gonzalez, a coral biologist at the University of Havana for some insight into Cuba’s ecosystems. This trip is lead by the president of SEETurtles, Brad Nahill, who is a wealth of knowledge and experience! Make sure to register by June 5th, 2018 for this departure in August!

Visit turtle nesting sites to monitor and possibly see hatchlings at the Guanahacabibes National Park. Later, explore caves, help measure turtles, and explore exquisite coral reefs with snorkel or diving excursions.

Sea Turtle & Wildlife Conservation in Guatemala – Love Volunteers

Photo Credit: Love Volunteers

Travel to a beautiful seaside village in Guatemala and assist with turtle conservation! Experience the incredible feeling of making a difference, meeting new friends and getting to know a new culture. Guatemala is an amazing place to find adventure, so make sure to make the most of your free time there, or even tack on a couple of extra days before or after the program! This program is a hands-on volunteer program, so be ready to get your hands dirty and have a load of fun!

Volunteer with Sea Turtles in Costa Rica – Oyster Worldwide

Experience life on the coast while helping to protect adult and baby sea turtles. Enjoy opportunities to work with the community, work with beach conservation, monitoring the beach and hatchery, and a whole lot more. If you love sea turtles and are looking to get a taste of rural life in beautiful Costa Rica, this is the perfect opportunity for you!  Your efforts will directly impact the conservation project and help protect the lives of sea turtles and their hatchlings.