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Costa Rica & Nicaragua Sea Turtle Ecology  

Sea Turtle Ecology and Conservation

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Ever been to the beaches of Tortuguero on Costa Rica’s northeastern Caribbean Coast? No? Well, we’ll tell you who has. Sea turtles. And lots of them, too. In fact, this remote beach, roughly 50 miles from the Port of Limon, happens to be the largest green sea turtle nesting site in the world. But before you settle into measuring carapace and counting turtle eggs, take an adrenaline-soaked rafting trip on the thrilling Sarapiqui River. Yes, there will be foam.

Costa Rica isn’t the only place to witness turtles in Central America. These migratory creatures have also found their way to El Ostional, on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua. And with good reason — it’s home to miles and miles of beautiful beach and serves as the nesting ground for thousands of sea turtles. El Ostional lies 12 miles south of San Juan del Sur, one of the most popular beaches and surf spots in Nicaragua. Come learn how to help protect depleting turtle populations.

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“Nicaragua was beautiful, the people were very welcoming… it broadened my view on conservation and the world in general. ” — Marcus Roland, Valdosta, GA

Back to Costa Rica, this time to San Miguel in the Nicoya Peninsula along the north-central coast. Spend your time here out on the beach, enjoying the sun and sand while constructing a hatchery. Sometimes it takes getting a better sense of the turtle to get a better sense of yourself.

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Costa Rica & Nicaragua

Turtles can’t sit still. Like you, they’re all over lush Costa Rica and the beaches of Nicaragua.

Sea Turtles. They nest on the beaches of Tortuguero. They hatch in San Miguel. They swim in El Ostional. They fascinate everywhere.

Study abroad for college students in Costa Rica

El Ostional
This tranquil village on the Pacific coast of Nicaragua is a nesting ground for thousands of sea turtles each year.

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In Costa Rica’s bustling capital, experience foodie haunts, museums, colorful markets and fully alive Tico culture.

Marine biology study abroad program for college students

San Miguel
Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. Between July and December, Olive Ridley turtles nest on miles of beach.

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Sarapiqui
Running from the Central Mountain Range to the Nicaragua border, this scenic river is a popular rafting spot.

Sea turtle marine science educational camp

Tortuguero
The green turtle, hawksbill, loggerhead and leatherback all make nests here. Make yours on the beach and dig in.

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