Participating in a turtle release program is one of the most incredible activities in Vallarta • Nayarit. Every year between June and November, the endangered Olive Ridley sea turtles arrive on our Mexican shores to nest and lay their eggs and they are very special visitors.
Female Olive Ridley sea turtles will return year after year to the beaches of Vallarta • Nayarit build nests and lay their eggs on the very same beaches where they themselves were born. Each nest may hold up to 200 new hatchlings but the baby turtles face harsh challenges to make it back to the ocean. The slow-moving babies are an easy target for predatory birds and iguanas as they make their way down the beach.
To protect these wonderful creatures, Mexican governmental agencies, with the help of marine biologists, have created several turtle protection programs with turtle farms dedicated to the harvesting, hatching and releasing of baby sea turtles. There are also various programs and tours around the Vallarta • Nayarit which allow visitors to cradle the baby turtles and deliver them safely to the sea. Not only does this greatly increase the chance of survival for the baby sea turtles but it is an educational and emotionally enriching experience for visitors.
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