This itinerary is entirely flexible and customizable. Volunteer Reservations: 1-877-77CORAL (1-877-772-6725), 787-742-0068 The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources of Puerto Rico manages the Sea Turtle Conservation Project on the island of Culebra. Prior to the fence, 44 to 100 percent of sea turtle nests were destroyed every year due to feral pigs. Airfare and baggage fees (to be purchased at the discretion and responsibility of each participant), Customs and immigration fees at airports or border crossings, Various meals or drinks listed as on own in the itinerary when the group is dispersed for self-exploration. This area is located just off the coast of Fajardo and is formed from a range of cays and small islands with wonderful reefs and crystal clear waters. We will be joined by a local turtle biologist who will talk to usabout his decades-long research on turtles in the area while we assist himwith his monitoring surveys! Join the Sea Turtle Patrol with Para La Naturaleza. Please note: turtle hatching season runs from February to August. This secluded island paradise is very popular with divers who come from afar to explore the untouched beaches, caves and coral reefs. This beach resort has its own stretch of beach where a variety of turtle species come to lay their eggs. Arrive at Rafael Hernndez International Airport (BQN) and take a taxi to group lodging in Rincon. Volunteers can also learn new skills, gain valuable knowledge, and make a meaningful difference in the world. On this tour, youll be able to swim with the turtles and get up close to them. Since 1988, wildlife workers have often enlisted volunteers to help monitor and protect the breeding grounds of the majestic leather-back turtle. If you enjoy seeing turtles, you may also be interested in knowing where to go whale watching in Puerto Rico. For the best chance of seeing the turtles, you should join a snorkeling tour with an expert guide who will show you where to find turtles without fail! We have reached the end of the trip! We will drop you at the airport in time for your flight home or feel free to extend your stay. Well return to the hotel mid-afternoon to rest up for a full day and long night tomorrow. Whether your team wants to volunteer at the. The leatherback turtle, the world's largest sea turtle, each year between March and August arrives on Puerto Rico's beaches, where the females lay their eggs, but this year the island is locked down due to the coronavirus pandemic and this could harm the species, which is already in danger of extinction. Just imagine: full moon, desolated beach and in front of you a big leatherback turtle covering her nest. Thank you so much for planning our trip, being the best tour director ever, and making memories for us that will last a lifetime. Volunteer in Puerto Rico: affordable & reviewed programs - Worldpackers San Juan: Swimming and Snorkeling Tour with Turtles. We know when and where they will be nesting or foraging, you don't need to be a biologist or speak Spanish, and our trips directly benefit conservation efforts. We can all do something every day to support healthier oceans. Puerto Rico's Department of Natural Resources seeks volunteers annually from April through June to monitor the nests, make sure they are secured from predators, and count eggs. A great introduction to marine turtle monitoring. Our marine conservation volunteer programs offer hands-on opportunities for you to participate in marine research and conservation worldwide. No meals planned for today so grab something on the way or we will provide recommendations near the hotel. This snorkeling tour is one of the best rated ones and includes transport to and from the reserve. 4.7 / 5. Sea turtle protection program | AES You must be in GOOD PHYSICAL CONDITION for this activity. Coming out of the program, you would, Being on the actual job site was my favorite part. endangered Biodiversity Amigos de las Tortugas Marinas (ATMAR), a community-based turtle conservation organization in Puerto Rico, is seeking volunteers to assist with monitoring leatherback and hawksbill turtles during the 2018 nesting season (May to August): These turtles are known to nest in Isla Mona and Isla Culebra. Once youve had your fill of endless white sandy beaches and calm blue waters, join us for a welcome dinner at beautiful Tacos & Tequila restaurant with the local Chapter of the Sierra Club, the local sea turtle conservation groups, Chelonia & 7 Quillas, and our Discovery Expeditions guide. Snorkel and explore the Tres Palmas Marine Reserve and learn about its importance to the local community. Prepare for yet another day of geological wonders! This will be an in-water activity, involving catching and studying these turtles from the beach (the catching will be done by professionals). Well arrive in time for a morning hike led by your Discovery Expeditions tour leader along the Mina Falls Trail ending at a very beautiful waterfall and swimming hole (swimming is optional but recommendedbring water shoes!). Most programs include 24/7 support, full accommodation, meals, and airport pickup. As sea turtles are flagship species, by studying them and the threats facing their survival . In Puerto Rico, leatherback nesting trends decreased as much as 5% annually from 1990 to 2017. Some hotels, like Mamacitas Guesthouse in Culebra, participate in Turtle Conservation Project. See them here and follow along Several of the turtles have now begun their northward migration (this map includes Carol and Sunshine, who got their tags in 2021). Meals: BLD. The accommodation is walking distance to the marine reserve and located in aquiet, residential neighborhood. 2279. The oceans are the lifeblood of our planet, and yet they have never been sicker. It is illegal to touch or disturb sea turtle nests or hatchlings, and it is important to keep a safe distance to avoid causing stress or harm to the turtles. Night beach walks on soft sand can be taxing but we will have different options of distance to choose from. We've compiled some of the best volunteering opportunities in Puerto Rico, including volunteer roles with small local organizations, as well as international NGOs. Along with government technicians, volunteers stake out the beaches of Resaca, Brava, Zoni and sometimes Culebrita on overnight trips between March and early July, keeping an eye out for pregnant . One of the most highly-rated programs on this list of great sea turtle volunteering opportunities is offered by Global Leadership Adventures in Costa Rica for teens aged 14-19. Check out the video below which shows one of the sea turtles spotted whilst out swimming at Escambron Beach: Another one of the best places to see sea turtles in Puerto Rico is on Culebra Island. For the past few months I have been living and working at a Leatherback Sea Turtle nesting beach in Costa Rica, and I havent looked back! Felices viajes! The groups take to the beach at sunrise, when the turtles are more likely to hatch, and patrol typically ends just before noon. must stay at a distance until the turtle has prepared her nest. The sea turtles are most often seen at Esperanza Beach, Mosquito Pier and Playa Pata Prieta. All rights reserved. When is the best time to visit Puerto Rico? By continuing to browse the site you are agreeing to our use of cookies and similar tracking technologies described in our, Whales, Dolphins, and Biodiversity of Southwest Mexico, Puerto Rico: Coral Reef Volunteer Program, Bahamas: Dolphin Volunteer Research Program, do something every day to support healthier oceans. The Department of Natural and Environmental Resources of Puerto Rico manages the Sea Turtle Conservation Project on the island of Culebra. Learn about the rich natural and cultural history of this beautiful island, hike through a tropical rain forest and kayak through a mangrove channel into a bioluminescent bay. Puerto Rico is a tropical paradise, and as San Juan is often cited as one of the Caribbeans best city beaches, youre guaranteed to never want to leave! If your team feels called to directly connect with and impact local children and seniors, Puerto Rico Renace can make that happen. Refillable water bottle, good walking shoes. The group can split into two with one group walking further down the beach, Overnight at Parador El Faro (2 nights). You, sitting there in the sand, staring at her and safeguard a big plastic bag with turtle eggs. Why not join a horse riding tour whilst youre there? You won't regret it! This super fun activity allows you to navigate through the beautiful mangroves and pass by lots of wonderful marine life including manatees, sea turtles and iguanas too. From mixology classes with local rum distillers to salsa lessons and historical tours, immerse your attendees in the vibrant culture of Puerto Rico. Where To See Sea Turtles In Puerto Rico - 2023 Guide The temperature will be hot (high 80's to low 90's) with humidity but all accommodations offer air conditioning, as well as our private vehicle. I was given so much exposure with the LTTW experience. Join us for our first trip to the wonderful island of Puerto Rico! For an unforgettable experience, you can witness the hatching of these turtles for yourself at the resort. Swim with sea turtles and other marine life on this snorkeling activity located only minutes from Old San Juan. We will spend an hour or so planting native vegetation to help stabilize the dunes as well as a nearby mangrove. As a volunteer, your responsibilities are to assist the technologists working for the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources (DNER) of Puerto Rico by patrolling a nesting beach. How to get to Culebra and Vieques Leatherback Sea Turtle Habitat Restoration In Puerto Rico The Later, project collaborators and families participate in the release of the . Some can be exploitative and use turtles merely as a means to separate tourists and volunteers from their money. Check any reviews for your project before you go, and make sure theyre reputable. B, L, D indicates the meals provided each day (breakfast, lunch, and dinner). Explore the history and nature of Cabezas de San Juan Nature Reserve by taking a guided trolley tour through dry forests and seagrass beds. While we loved guiding this private tour, it is purely an example of what can be possible and we will tailor your day to day program to your interests. These charismatic and endangered animals are easy and safe to work with, and they need our help! It is our outstanding volunteers that educate the public about how to protect sea turtles in Brevard County and surrounding areas. Culebra Puerto Rico These volunteers work with citizens, tourists, students, teachers and other professionals to provide a productive and rewarding trip through the museum. turtles. We will also participate in volunteer activities restoring beach dunes and mangroves, and visit a manatee conservation center, take two kayaking trips, participate in cultural activities, and more. The island itself is uninhabited and protected by the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources meaning its wildlife is well protected. Memorable events begin with an iconic setting. In Rincn we will stay in a two-family home, where each level has 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, a kitchen, living room, wifi, satellite TV and A/C. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. Depending on flight times and dates, you can enjoy more sites and activities in San Juan, soaking up the incredible atmosphere before you have to depart! Check out the video below to see some sea turtles spotted whilst snorkeling in the crystal clear waters of Steps Beach: La Parguera is a little village located in the town of Lajas in southwestern Puerto Rico and its another great place to see turtles. For example, you can find positions to volunteer in Puerto Rico with animals in a wildlife reserve, farm or animal shelter. During peak nesting season, we expect (but cannot guarantee) to see leatherback sea turtles. Calle Castelar #68, Afterward, well head for Dorado Beach to begin our nesting patrols, which will last until 1:00am. With Puerto Rico Renace, your team is able to make a direct impact on these small communities and connect directly with local children and seniors. Volunteer with marine conservation programs worldwide. The return is quite Because of severe erosion on the beach, likely the direct result of global climate change, we are having to relocate more and more nests. When nesting, leatherbacks will not enter an area where The nesting season of leatherback, green, and hawksbill turtles lasts from Im slowly working my way around the world and sharing my journey as I go. This immersive volunteer vacation will sharpen your reef fish ID skills and get you familiar with field techniques that scientists use to evaluate the health of coral reefs. Consider your specific project carefully before you go, and plan for how long you want to be there. We will have lunch at a local restaurant nearby. Volunteer in Costa Rica This park is the most important area in the entire west half of the Caribbean for the nesting of the green turtle.Volunteers participate on the sea turtle preservation including monitoring and registering nesting patterns, record keeping of eggs, moving eggs to the hatchery, beach patrols, freeing of the newborns to the ocean. Culebra, Puerto Rico uses volunteers to assist in identifying and helping the December 6, 2023 @ 5:30 PM. The Observatory is recognized as one of the most important national centers for research in radio astronomy, planetary radar and terrestrial aeronomy. Camuy River has the third largest water volume in the world in an underground river system and is one of the largest, and most spectacular, systems in the western hemisphere. Sea Turtle Volunteer Vacations SEE Turtles Please contact our Volunteer Coordinator at volunteer@seaturtlespacecoast.org with any questions you have. The only downside to this place is that its basically impossible to get to alone so you will need to join a tour. Dietary requirements can be catered for just let us know when booking. Scuba Dog Society is a local nonprofit that organizes various beach cleanups throughout the year. You will be in a rather rural environment, but that means you have the chance to see some of Costa Ricas amazing wildlife right where youre working, including monkeys, reptiles, and some of Costa Ricas breathtakingly beautiful birds. Smaller hawksbill turtles have a sanctuary on Mona Island between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic. We hope to plan another trip with you in the future! Cayo Icacos is the largest island here. Work alongside local farmers to build resilient food systems with World Central Kitchen. Taking a sabbatical was the best decision of my life. I have changed so much as a person in that I am more open-minded and open to trying new things. 4 Volunteer Opportunities for Incentive Groups in Puerto Rico After breakfast, we will visit the Caribbean Manatee Conservation Center, where we will do a tour and visit the manatees, sea turtles, and other wildlife that this facility is rehabilitating. Here are some quotes to help convince you: What volunteers really liked about the Sea Turtle Conservancy project in Costa Rica is the sense of fun and adventure they had working there. For eight days, participants will help with sea turtle research while exploring the local scenery and enjoying sightings of other wildlife such as sharks, whales, and dolphins. nest, as she returns to the sea. Browse our current ocean volunteer vacations below. Volunteer Abroad Sea Turtle Conservation Program - Pacific & Caribbean The day is not quite over yet! adult turtle lay her eggs! (B,L,D), We'll take a chartered boat to Desecheo Island, 13 miles offshore. View all 10 images. After breakfast today, we will head out for an easy kayaking trip to explore the areas reefs with glass bottom kayaks. There are seven distinct species, ranging from the relatively small Kemps Ridley (averaging around 100lbs.) It is our outstanding volunteers that educate the public about how to protect sea turtles in Brevard County and surrounding areas. 2023 Oceanic Society. Well return to the hotel in the mid-late afternoon, leaving you plenty of time to coordinate a final group dinner or to explore the city solo! time is from April to early June. The Leatherback Project Late afternoon, we will visit the Luquillo area which has a variety of options to choose from local Afro-Caribbean food in the area (dinner not included today). This program scores particularly well on safety and value -- something IVHQ programs are known for worldwide. Privacy Policy | GDPR FAQ | Accessibility, Corporate Social Responsibility in Puerto Rico, Top Local Experiences for Meetings in Puerto Rico, Meeting Venues with Ocean Views in Puerto Rico, A Luxurious, Four-Day Incentive Group Getaway, 11 Hotels & Resorts in Puerto Rico that Incentive Planners Love, 4 Volunteer Opportunities for Incentive Groups in Puerto Rico, Is your team ready to roll up their sleeves and help a local farmer? This program focuses on sustainable travel for its volunteers as they support the research mission. This shouldnt stop anyone from being able to help though! Youll be able to see tropical fish, turtles and the odd dolphin too! The Oceanic Society is a registered organization. Culebra Island is a small island that is located just off the east coast of the Puerto Rico mainland. When nesting, leatherbacks will not enter an area where lights or noise of any kind exist. Details Published: March 26 2023 . Itinerary: For an Unforgettable Incentive Trip, Head North, 12 Uniquely Puerto Rican Excursions for Your Incentive Group, Itinerary: Plan a West Coast Incentive Group Escape, Itinerary: 4 Days in Puerto Rico's Enchanting East Region. After that, we will have lunch and then some free time to explore our neighborhood in San Juan. We will visit the citys highlights including the San Felipe Castle, La Perla, and more. turtle is the largest living sea turtle in the world. The Best Volunteer Experiences in Puerto Rico - Culture Trip (B,L,D), Well have breakfast together before we part ways. For lunch, we will visit a cultural icon of northern Puerto Rico, the long row of food kiosks at Luquillo Beach where you can take your pick of local Puerto Rican cuisine, on own, and spend some time relaxing on Luquillo Beach. Volunteer Information - Sea Turtle Preservation Society Baby turtles hatch from eggs laid on the beaches and make their way to the ocean, facing many dangers along the way. Organize a beach cleanup at one of Puerto Rico's 300 beaches with Scuba Dog Society. * Please note: We give 100% refunds on any trips that we need to cancel and our cancellation fees (when travelers need to cancel) can be used on any future trip, no expiration or penalties. Then we recommend volunteering with the, is an extension of this project that includes volunteer experiences with Puerto Rican farmers. Geographic magazine." This site also consists of a chain of islands with mangroves, lagoons, sandy beaches and coral reefs. After breakfast at your hotel, well travel to the Fajardo region to hike in cool and mountainous El Yunque Rain Forest, the only tropical rainforest in the U.S. National Forest Service ecosystem. Please note that this is simply a sample itinerary to give you an idea of what we've done before and what we could create for you. Volunteers have played an important role in Oceanic Society's work since our founding in 1969, and we invite you to lend your hand as a volunteer with one of our programs. We know when and where they will be nesting or foraging, you don't need to be a biologist or speak Spanish, and our trips directly benefit conservation efforts. There are many ways your group can have a positive impact on the Island during your visit. As an environmental volunteer with IVHQ, you'll have the opportunity to support jungle and rainforest conservation, climate action, environmental education, sustainable cities, coastline conservation, organic farming and tree planting volunteer projects within communities abroad. Puerto Rico uses volunteers to assist in identifying and helping the turtles. The programs chosen by Go Overseas below are all excellent and have been vetted by our previous volunteers, and there are many other great programs the world over! These beaches are known to be nesting sites for sea turtles, and during hatching season (typically from May to August), you may be able to witness baby turtles making their way to the ocean. Proyecto Tinglado is Youll find Mosquito Pier is on the north side of the island. Although still considered an endangered species, the turtle population in Puerto Rico really is thriving and you can find them in many locations across the island. So much gratitude for you your patience, grace, skill, and spirit. We will be in touch soon. Additionally, there are several Puerto Rican groups participating in monitoring the turtles, like Yo Amo al Tinglar, Tortugueros de Culebra, Playas pal Pueblo, Chelonia, Tortugueros del Sur, and the Culebra Sea Turtle Project. Although they are found in oceans around the world, sea turtles tend to nest on tropical and subtropical beaches on almost every continent. Box 844Ross, CA 94957, Expeditions & General Inquiries 1-800-326-7491. Show more, Leatherback Turtles on the North Caribbean. This lagoon is a marine paradise to say the least. Another benefit of volunteering is the chance to work and live in some of the most beautiful locations in the world. See full Affiliate Disclosure here. We will see lots of sea turtles in a variety of ways, on nesting beaches, in the water, and more. them. She puts on Whether your team wants to volunteer at the Miramar Food Truck Park farmers market or help plant fruit trees at Rancho Orgnico Feliz, Food Producer Network offers a variety of experiences that allow your team to give back while also learning about the Islands prolific agricultural industry. Turtles lay eggs a few times during the same season in the sand as deep as 3.3 feet (1 m). This morning, we will join biologist Carlos Diez to study and release juvenile green sea turtles. This turtle beach in Puerto Rico is well known for its crystal clear waters and coral reefs that are filled with an abundance of interesting marine life including tropical fish, sea turtles and rays. The dunes are not only important for sea turtle nesting but also for protecting coastal communities from hurricanes. By stepping outside of their comfort zones and working in challenging environments, volunteers can develop new skills and gain confidence. The turtle watch is truly an incredible experience. From April through June, wildlife fans can volunteer for a turtle-egg protection project on Culebra. 2023 Discover Puerto Rico. Their biggest eventInternational Coastal Cleanuphappens every September and is part of a global movement that includes 90 countries and more than six million volunteers. Every year, the team donates thousands of eggs for incubation in corrals, or nesting sites, which are prepared by their team of AES volunteers. Remember to always practice responsible tourism by not getting too close to the turtles and never ever touch them! Feral pigs on Mona dig up nests and eat eggs and hatchlings. Id definitely say that Condado Lagoon is one of Puerto Ricos best spots for families as there are some many fun and unique activities here. We will have lunch in that part of the island and then some down time. The goal of this project is to ensure the availability of high-quality nesting habitat for leatherback sea turtles in Puerto Rico by: restoring the nesting beaches that are most important for this species, reducing threats to their habitats, and. Our group of 12 or so had. Be added to the wait list or alerted for future trips. Other beaches on the island where you can see sea turtles include Zoni Beach, Playa Resaca, Flamenco Beach, Playa Carlos Rosario and Playa Brava. In Puerto Rico Sea Turtle Nesting and Immersive Ecology & Social Studies Includes:Guide, private transportation, accommodations, meals (except where listed), activities, and a donation to turtle conservation. 2023 Oceanic Society. Puerto Rico Sea Turtle Adventure SEE Turtles All satellite turtle tracks together! We will then a have farewell dinner with the group in the city followed by an optional night on the town. Our award-winning programs help save sea turtle hatchlings on important nesting beaches around the world, work with the tourism industry to end the turtleshell trade, and get plastic out of sea turtle habitats. Mona Island, Puerto Rico - Island Conservation Being in the company of a leatherback as she ends her arduous journey to lay her eggs is a moving experience and a privilege offered to only a few! Mona Island is the perfect habitat and the best kept Caribbean refuge for many marine animals including turtles. I enjoyed assisting with the nightly patrols and tagging/taking measurements of the green sea turtles. Most people book onto a snorkeling tour so they dont miss anything. The best place to see sea turtles on this island is at Tamarindo Beach which youll find on the western side. Entrance fees to all program sites and activities listed on the itinerary, some meals (see itinerary), Opportunities for free time on the beach and hiking in a rainforest and swimming in a tropical waterfall (La Mina Falls, El Yunque). Afterwards, your team can bask in the sun at La Esperanza or head down PR-686 to explore some of the north region'smost popular beaches, like Mar Chiquita, Los Tubos, and Mar Bella. Help us continue to protect and preserve our coast by hosting a beach cleanup day with your team.