In 2007, STC began incorporating Environmental Education and Outreach Programs (EEOP) in STC’s efforts to protect the green turtle nesting population in Tortuguero. From an educational perspective, sea turtles can help conservationists achieve and enhance environmental awareness on people, as they have the power to change environmental attitudes; therefore, it is incredibly valuable to use them as ambassadors of marine ecosystems.
The main environmental issues in Tortuguero are:
- Non-sustainable consumption habits;
- Waste management;
- Poaching of sea turtle eggs and adults for consumption;
- Beachfront light pollution;
- Low involvement in the community.
STC is working together with community groups and residents to establishing constant and long-term projects, providing educational and outreach programs that include socioeconomic, cultural and environmental perspectives. Additionally, STC is working with the authorities at Tortuguero National Park, and providing training for local sea turtle guides and turtle spotters (scouts).
The Center s located at STC’s John H. Phipps Biological Station to the north of Tortuguero. The Center is open to the public. You can visit the gift shop, watch a movie about sea turtles in Tortuguero, and explore the small museum.
Yes, there is a fee of US$2.50 (1287.50 colones) per person.
The Visitor’s Center is open daily from 8:00 am to 12:00 pm and 01:00 pm to 5:00 pm
Contact information:
Biological Station Sea Turtle Conservancy
200 m North of Tortuguero School
between Mawamba Lodge and the Village of Tortuguero
Tortuguero, Costa Rica
Email: vc.coordinator@conserveturtles.org
Phone: +506 8865 4887 or +506 2767 1576
You can sign-up for a guided green turtle watch program once you are in Tortuguero. This can be often be done through the hotel where you are staying or by contacting a Tortuguero tour guide or company. There is a fee and two times when groups can be on the beach at night, 8 pm – 10 pm and 10 pm – midnight.