Dive into a life-changing journey on the Osa Peninsula. The traveler will join a dedicated group protecting endangered sea turtles through night patrols, hatchery management, and habitat restoration. This isn't just a trip; it’s a mission to safeguard marine life in one of the world's most biodiverse regions. The traveler will gain hands-on conservation skills while living alongside a community of researchers and change-makers committed to the ocean's future.
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Join me for an unforgettable week in Costa Rica <3
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US$ 1,390
Starting from
US$ 1,299
Join me and the sea turtles in Costa Rica!
Show moreStarting from
US$ 1,299
Arrive at the project site, settle into the jungle camp, and get to know the surroundings to prepare for the immersion in the Osa Peninsula.
The group gathers for an essential briefing that covers the project's goals, safety protocols, and the biological importance of the sea turtle conservation work ahead.
Head to the shoreline for a guided walkthrough of the nesting grounds. This orientation helps the group navigate the terrain and understand the specific coastal dynamics of the area.
To start the impact, the group joins a light beach clean-up. Removing debris ensures a clear, safe path for nesting turtles and protects the hatchlings that will eventually emerge from the sand.
The traveler will share a traditional meal prepared by the local cook.
Head out for your first patrol under the stars. Walking the beach in the dark, the group monitors for nesting activity, helping to collect data and protect the turtles from potential threats.
The traveler prepares their own breakfast in the communal kitchen, fueling up for a day of conservation and beach life at their own pace.
The morning is open for the group to rest, explore the surrounding, or relax at the camp. It’s a perfect moment for the traveler to soak in the natural beauty of the Osa Peninsula before the afternoon tasks begin.
The group gathers for a fresh meal prepared by the local cook.
The traveler moves into the heart of the scientific work. The group will conduct vital hatchery checks to monitor nest temperatures and progress, followed by data entry to ensure every turtle's journey is accurately recorded for long-term research.
The group shares a communal evening meal at the main house.
The traveler heads back out to the beach for another night shift. The group will continue monitoring nesting sites, ensuring the shoreline remains a safe haven for the turtles under the cover of darkness.
The traveler kicks off the day by preparing their own breakfast at the camp.
The morning is open for group bonding and relaxation. Travelers can play volleyball on the beach or swim in the ocean, getting to know the group in a relaxed setting.
The group gathers for a traditional lunch prepared by the local cook.
Travelers directly contribute to habitat restoration by removing plastic and debris from the shoreline, ensuring a clean and safe nesting environment for sea turtles.
The group shares a communal evening meal at the main house.
Whether it's stargazing from the camp or sharing stories with the group, the night is open for the traveler to rest and recharge.
The traveler experiences the magic of the coast at first light. The day begins with an early beach patrol to check for overnight nesting activity or newly emerged hatchlings making their way to the sea.
After the morning mission, the traveler prepares their own breakfast at the camp.
The group gathers for a midday meal prepared by the local cook.
The traveler focuses on the technical aspects of conservation, conducting nest monitoring to track development and organizing the collected data to support accurate research project outcomes.
The traveler joins the group for a communal dinner at the main house.
To close out the day, the traveler gathers with the group around a campfire under the stars to celebrate the shared purpose of the journey.
The traveler prepares their own breakfast at the camp.
The morning is open for exploration. You can choose to rest at the camp or join the group for a hike to a local waterfall to see the biodiversity of the Osa Peninsula.
The group gathers for a traditional meal prepared by the local cook.
When scheduled, the group engages in community outreach or educational activities, helping to spread awareness about marine conservation and fostering a positive alignment with local residents.
The group shares a communal evening meal at the main house, refueling before the final night activities of the week.
Return to the shoreline for a night patrol. The group monitors the nesting beaches to ensure sea turtle safety and collect research data.
Prepare your own breakfast at the camp, enjoying a slow morning surrounded by the sounds of the tropical rainforest.
The group can head to the shore to lounge on the sand, swim in the Pacific, or simply catch up on rest to recharge after a week of dedicated conservation work.
Gather for a traditional meal prepared by the local cook, serving as a social centerpiece for the day in the shared dining area.
Join a group game of beach volleyball, explore the nearby jungle trails, or head back to the water, making the most of the destination’s incredible natural beauty.
The group shares a communal evening meal at the main house enjoying the authentic flavors of Costa Rica.
Tonight is flexible. You can either join the group for a final night patrol to support the nesting turtles or take the night off to relax at the camp.
Prepare the final breakfast at the camp, enjoying one last morning surrounded by the sounds of the jungle.
Depart from the project site back to Puerto Jiménez. It's the final moment to say goodbye to the team and the nesting beaches before heading back to the city.
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Help clear the sand of small debris to create a safe path for our nesting sea turtles.
Meet the team, learn turtle safety protocols, and explore your new home on the coast.
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Walk the beach under the stars to protect nesting sea turtles and ensure their survival.
Monitor the beach at dawn for nesting signs and witness the stunning first light of the tropics.
Protect nesting grounds by removing debris and plastic, ensuring a safe path for sea turtles.
Explore the lush rainforest on a guided trek to discover hidden natural falls and swim.
Bond with the group over volleyball and enjoy the stunning Pacific coastline.
Engage with the community through workshops and environmental education sessions in the village.
Help track nest success and organize vital data to drive our conservation efforts.
Monitor protected nests and log scientific data to ensure a future for sea turtles.
Additional activities for you to enjoy this adventure even more in your free time.
Choose to join one final patrol or enjoy a well-deserved rest at the camp before your departure.
Explore a neighboring farm and the stunning Osa Peninsula landscapes on an unforgettable ride.
$40 per person
Join our weekly sessions to learn local phrases and connect deeper with the community;
No extra cost
Request a group cooking session to share recipes and flavors from around the world.
No extra cost
Discover incredible trails and hidden waterfalls around the area at your own pace for free.
Free of charge
Head to Matapalo to catch your first waves with expert coaching and board rentals included.
$60 per person
Visit the crown jewel of Costa Rica’s parks to spot rare wildlife in a world-class rainforest.
$120 per person
Enjoy movies or games with the team as often as you like! The perfect way to bond.
No extra cost
Paddle through serene lagoons to discover hidden mangroves and local aquatic wildlife.
$40 per person
Enjoy a delicious local lunch and a relaxing afternoon poolside at a nearby jungle lodge.
$40 per person
United Kingdom
This was such an amazing experience. Everything from the people to the place fully immerses you in a totally unique experience, where you are all living together with a common goal of helping protect turtle population numbers. You get to be super involved with the project, and I found myself feeling encouraged by every research assistant I worked alongside. There's a proper community at the camp, and everyone takes part in sustaining it. I would say that you have to be prepared for the heat and bug bites to be big factors, however the experience completely outweighs these challenges.
18 days ago
United States
I enjoyed my time at the reserve it's hard to believe. It truly went above and beyond my expectations, everyone I met was so warm and welcoming, easy to talk to, positive and upbeat it made the experience unforgettable. I greatly enjoyed how much time we actually got to spend working on the beach, with the turtles as well, it really made me feel like we were actively contributing to a goal greater than ourselves it was great. This was my first time both volunteering and leaving my home country and if anyone is out there in the same boat looking at the reserve I'd encourage them to give them a shot!
about 1 month ago
Italy
I spent two unforgettable weeks in paradise! The coordinators, the assistants, and all the other volunteers: it was amazing in a stunning location immersed in the most remote nature. I recommend this experience to anyone who loves nature, animals, and wants to meet people from all over the world. I am extremely grateful to have had the opportunity of spending time in the reserve. Tip: if you're still thinking about it, go and you won't regret it!
8 months ago
Germany
I wasn't aware that there can be many other people who don't book over worldpackers. So I was really surprised when I got there and we were around 30 people in Camp! Half of them volunteers and half research assistants. But that was amazing, the camp was vivid! (It's not always that many people) The coordinators are really nice and make you feel welcomed. The work is fair and good. You get to sleep in an open hut with 16 beds but I enjoyed it! Food is great, people are great, the place is great. It was an amazing time!
8 months ago
United States
This was my first Worldpackers experience and my first time to a different country and I'm very glad I chose this project. The environment is very beautiful and well kept. It definitely exceeded my expectations. Working with the turtles was great. Most of all the people made this experience. I met people from all around the world that inspired me and that I will never forget. Here are some tips for travelers here -Bring extra snacks -Sansa charter flight to Puerto Jimenez was very easy if it's in your budget -Stay at Cabinas de Backpackers for just 15$ a night
9 months ago
Italy
I had an amazing experience at the reserve😍 I met people all around the word and had such a good time with everyone. It's a perfect place if you look for nature, wild life, community.
about 1 month ago
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The traveler will stay in a community-style house designed for true immersion. Travelers will be in a jungle camp just a few 100m from the beach, allowing the group to stay close to the heart of the conservation efforts. The shared dormitories are simple, clean, and equipped with bunk beds and fans to ensure comfort in the tropical climate. The house features a shared kitchen, laundry area, and communal spaces for the group to bond after patrols. To minimize environmental impact, the site uses solar energy and bio-digestors, offering a rustic yet sustainable living experience.
The group will be provided with three authentic, locally-sourced meals every day. The traveler will enjoy traditional Costa Rican cuisine, including fresh "Gallo Pinto," tropical fruits, and balanced vegetarian-friendly options. Meals are served in a communal setting, fostering a sense of family within the group.
Arrive at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), take a domestic flight or bus to Puerto Jiménez (PJM), and connect with a representative who will meet the group at the airport or bus station for a scheduled pick-up. Since the site is remote, you are encouraged to coordinate your arrival to join this collective transfer. Full details are in your program guide once your spot is confirmed!
The traveler will be guided by an organization dedicated to marine conservation and the protection of the Osa Peninsula's biodiversity. This host focuses on scientific research and community empowerment to safeguard local nesting beaches. By joining the group, the traveler supports a team that works year-round to collect vital data and prevent poaching. The host provides expert training, ensuring the group understands the biological importance of their work while fostering a safe, collaborative, and educational environment for all participants.
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The group will be based on the stunning shores of the Osa Peninsula, near the waters of the Golfo Dulce. This region is a tropical paradise, known for its lush rainforests that meet the Pacific Ocean. The traveler will be surrounded by incredible wildlife, from macaws to monkeys, in a location far from the tourist crowds. It is a place where the rhythm of life is dictated by the tides and the nesting cycles of the turtles, offering a profound connection to the natural world.
The traveler plays a vital role in preventing the extinction of sea turtles. By monitoring nesting activity and protecting hatchlings from predators and poachers, the group ensures that thousands of turtles reach the ocean safely. The project also focuses on environmental education and beach cleanups, directly impacting the health of the marine ecosystem and supporting the long-term resilience of the local coastal community.
The traveler directly protects sea turtle populations through nesting beach conservation. As keystone species, these turtles are vital for maintaining the health and balance of diverse marine ecosystems.
By supporting the hatchery, the group helps maintain lower incubation temperatures. This balances hatchling sex ratios, ensuring species longevity despite rising global temperatures caused by climate change.
This project creates reliable jobs in rural Costa Rica. By fostering ecotourism, the traveler helps provide local employment and educational opportunities that turn conservation into a sustainable economy.
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Worldpackers Group Trips offer a unique opportunity to engage in meaningful projects like eco-agriculture, wildlife conservation, and social activities, all while exploring new cultures. Upon successful sign-up, travelers secure their spot instantly - no waiting around for approvals to have their dream experience. To keep things smooth, they get a direct line to a support team and a complete program guide, all set for travelers to immerse themselves in service projects while also having the best time for personal and cultural exploration with like-minded travelers.
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