Outstanding summer programs for teens since 1982

Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation 14 Days

Returning Summer 2026
  • Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation 1
  • Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation -14 days 4
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Wildlife Conservation Program in Costa Rica

This is the perfect program for teens who want to learn about and help with conservation efforts! You will travel to both the Caribbean and Pacific coasts of Costa Rica while working with like-minded peers in an effort to protect the country’s sea turtle population. Healthy oceans need sea turtles to help maintain their complex ecosystems. Every day will be different as you help with various sea turtle conservation tasks such as scientific research, egg incubation and mangrove preservation. Afternoons and evenings will be just as hands-on and unique with harbor patrol, hatchling rescue and collecting and re-burying sea turtle eggs. There is so much to be done as you help to protect this endangered species. Outside your volunteering time, you will experience amazing adventures from ziplining to a sunset catamaran snorkel cruise. Your volunteer program in Costa Rica will be forever memorable and impactful!

Program Highlights

  • Support sea turtle conservation efforts, including nesting, data collection, and protection.

  • Work at a hatchery aiding with egg incubation, measuring, and releasing hatchlings.

  • Set sail on a catamaran cruise.

  • Learn to surf with professional instructors.

  • Enjoy the refreshing waters of the Caribbean Sea and Pacific Ocean.

  • Learn how to salsa at a Latin dance class.

  • Zip-line and hike through the jungle at Jaco.

  • Explore Manuel Antonio National Park on a guided tour.

Costa Rica: Sea Turtle Conservation

Service Projects

Latin America Sea Turtles (LAST) - Pacuare / La Palma

At the Caribbean side of Costa Rica in Pacuare, work at the nesting beaches of Leatherback and Green sea turtles. Do nightly and daily patrols and spend time at the hatchery. On the Pacific side in Osa, support field work for the Hawksbill sea turtles through monitoring, tagging, taking measurements, and much more!

About LAST
LAST (Latin America Sea Turtles) are an expert network of biologists, community leaders and educators committed to a regional and sustainable approach to manage the conservation of Costa Rica’s depleted sea turtle populations. LAST is the Costa Rica branch of WIDECAST (Wider Caribbean Sea Turtle Conservation Network) which comprises more than 40 nations and territories.

Latin America Sea Turtles (LAST) - Pacuare / La Palma

About This Program

  • What It's Like

    The perfect balance of meaningful service projects, cultural immersion and unforgettable adventures.

  • Cultural Sensitivity

    This program requires an open mind to experience a different culture, new foods and new surroundings.

  • 25 Service Hours

    A letter of completion detailing the program's service hours and projects will be issued after the program.

  • Recognition

    Your service hours are eligible toward the President's Volunteer Service Award.

  • Service Projects

    Everybody participates together in each project. Specific projects are confirmed in late spring and are similar to those described.

  • Local Guide

    A professional guide accompanies the group to assist, educate and immerse the students into the local culture.

  • Accommodations

    Hotels & lodges.

  • Meals

    Includes breakfast, lunch and dinner daily.

  • Activities

    Includes all recreation & activities listed.

  • Transportation

    Chartered, air conditioned motor coach with a professional driver.

  • Group Size

    Up to 24 participants.

  • Dietary Options

    We can accommodate most dietary preferences and allergies.

More Details