Guanacaste Turtle Watching Experience
Tamarindo
About this experience
Night tour to Las Baulas Marine National Park to observe leatherback turtles nesting (October-March). Certified guide required.
Las Baulas Marine National Park protects one of the most important leatherback sea turtle nesting beaches in the Pacific. Between October and March, these massive turtles — the largest reptiles on Earth — come ashore at night to lay their eggs. The experience is strictly regulated and led by certified guides.
Availability & booking
Select your date and number of guests to check availability and complete your booking.
Prices are shown in USD and do not include the 13% VAT, which is added at checkout.
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Highlights
- Leatherback sea turtles — the largest reptiles on Earth
- Las Baulas Marine National Park
- Season: October to March
- Certified guide — strictly regulated
- Small groups for minimal disturbance
How it works
Pickup
Roundtrip transportation from your hotel in the Brasilito, Langosta, Tamarindo, Conchal, or Flamingo area.
Beach walk
Walk 5–35 minutes along the protected beach with your guide.
Turtle sighting
Your guide locates a nesting turtle on the beach.
Observation
Observe the nesting process up close, following your guide's instructions.
What's included
- Drinks
- Guide
- Roundtrip transportation
Not included
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses
What to bring
- Camera
- Comfortable dark clothing
- Closed-toed shoes
- Insect repellent
Important information
- Seasonal experience — only available from September to February.
- Peak season is October through February.
- Departure time depends on the tides.
- Transportation only available from Brasilito, Langosta, Tamarindo, Conchal, and Flamingo.
- Turtle sightings are not guaranteed — they depend on natural nesting activity.
- Season: October to March. Peak months: November-January.
- Children must be able to follow guide instructions quietly.
Cancellation policy
Cancellation penalties apply depending on the service type and notice period. Please review our full Terms & Conditions for details.
Cancellation & Booking Terms →Frequently asked questions
Is a turtle sighting guaranteed?
No. Sightings depend on natural nesting activity. Success rates are high during peak season but cannot be guaranteed.
How is this different from Tortuguero?
Las Baulas is for leatherback turtles (Pacific, Oct-Mar). Tortuguero is for green turtles (Caribbean, Jul-Oct). Both are extraordinary experiences.
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