Turtle Projects

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Turtles are protected by law in Mexico due to declining numbers however only federal conservation camps - few in number - receive any government funding.  All other projects must fund themselves and several camps have had to close in recent years due to lack of funding.

	The Olive Ridley Turtle

Experience Mexico was initially set up to enable turtle camps on the Pacific coast of Mexico to continue operating by providing volunteers and funding.  The projects are run by experienced locals in beautiful settings and are situated just north of the Bay of Banderas; both ‘El Naranjo’ and Punta Raza are beautiful beaches located near Rincon de Guayabitos.

Our projects offer:

• Beautiful beaches
• 20% of your money goes directly to the camps
• The chance to suggest how and when your money is invested *
• The opportunity for you to make a difference

Sunset at Naranjo

Naranjo

Punta Raza

The camps may operate in different ways, though all are aim for the same result – to stabilise the turtle population and protect the nests from the dangers they face in the populated world.  Activities include:

• Patrolling of the beach, usually at night
• Collecting nests
• Planting nests
• Cleaning nests (once hatched)
• Releasing the babies
• Recording statistics and writing reports

Planting & Cleaning a nest using boxes

Baby turtles heading for the sea

Releasing baby turtles

Work is undertaken by the small groups of volunteers – from only a pair to larger groups of 6.  Patrols of the beach are done on foot and by beach buggy.

Accommodation is provided for all Experience Mexico volunteers in local accommodation, though often nights will be spent on the beach where tent accommodation is provided in the camp area.

Camp at Naranjo

Both camps operate from June to January each year, mainly working with the Olive Ridley turtle.  If you are physically fit and preferably can commit for at least three months to this project, you can be part of this miracle of nature and help the efforts of the specie to survive.

Preferred project dates:

• Mid June to mid September
• Mid September to mid December

• We will consider applications for any departure dates during the turtle laying season and also require some volunteers to remain on the project till the end of January to cover the Leatherback season.

Cost:

• £2500 for 3 months
• For other project lengths please contact us for a quote
• As usual costs include flight, travel insurance, accommodation, food allowance and support and advice both in the UK and from our Mexican representative during your time in Mexico.

* Subject to certain restrictions

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