Discover Costa Rica’s Turtle Season: A Must-See Wildlife Spectacle

Costa Rica is a vibrant paradise that attracts nature lovers with its pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife.  The sea turtle nesting season in Costa Rica is a phenomenal spectacle that particularly stands out. At Find My Costa Rica we’ve prepared this guide that delves into this unique event, known locally as the ‘arribada,’ highlighting the best times and places to witness these majestic creatures in their natural habitat in Costa Rica.

What is the ‘Arribada’?

The ‘arribada,’ meaning ‘arrival’ in Spanish, refers to the mass nesting of sea turtles. During this time, thousands of female turtles make their way to the beaches under the moonlight to lay their eggs. This event predominantly occurs from March to November and is a pivotal period for the reproduction of endangered sea turtles, including the Olive Ridley, Green Sea Turtle, Loggerhead, Hawksbill, and the Leatherback.

Prime Locations to Witness Turtle Nesting

Tortuguero National Park

Tortuguero National Park, on the northern Caribbean coast, is a prime location for observing Green Sea turtles. Known as the ‘home of the turtle,’ it is one of the world’s most important breeding grounds for this species. The nesting season here runs from June to October, peaking in July and August. Leatherbacks and Hawksbills also nest in Tortuguero, making it a diverse turtle-watching spot.

Ostional National Wildlife Refuge

The Ostional National Wildlife Refuge, situated on the Nicoya Peninsula, is another crucial site, particularly for Olive Ridley turtles. Recognized by the World Wildlife Fund as a significant nesting area, the refuge sees these turtles, alongside Green Sea turtles and Leatherbacks, lay their eggs on its distinctive black volcanic sands. The best viewing times are between September and November, with significant arribadas occurring then.

Additional Locations Worth Exploring

• Playa Grande: Located in Las Baulas National Marine Park near Tamarindo on the Pacific Coast, this beach is vital for Leatherback turtles, especially between October and February.
• Nancite Beach: In Santa Rosa National Park in Guanacaste, this secluded beach hosts large numbers of Olive Ridleys during September and October.

Viewing Guidelines and Conservation Efforts

Strict guidelines are in place to protect the turtles and their nesting sites. Access to beaches like Tortuguero and Ostional is restricted after 6 PM, with entry only possible through guided tours. These measures help minimize human impact on the turtles during this vulnerable period. Visitors are advised to wear dark clothing and to refrain from using flash photography, which can disorient the turtles.

Planning Your Visit

Timing your visit is crucial for a successful turtle-watching experience. The choice of location and time of year should align with the nesting patterns of the species you are interested in observing. Find My Costa Rica can arrange guided tours with expert leaders who ensure that visitors adhere to all guidelines, thus enhancing the experience while contributing to the preservation of these magnificent creatures, or you can book one of our packages including Tortuguero in the itinerary:

Conservation programs are integral to the survival of sea turtles in Costa Rica. By participating in guided tours and following established guidelines, visitors not only witness one of nature’s greatest spectacles but also support ongoing efforts to protect these ancient mariners. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast or simply looking for a unique experience during your Costa Rican vacation, turtle watching is an enriching activity that offers insights into the natural world and the challenges it faces.

Frequently Asked Questions