Description

For the turtle species to continue to exist, much help is needed from both local communities and volunteers. At present, only a tiny number of the eggs laid will grow to become an adult turtle. Human interference cannot be held solely responsible, however, our behavior has greatly diminished turtle population sizes. One way in which we can help is to assist during the turtle-nesting season and this project provides you with the opportunity to do just that.

Highlights

Volunteer Activities and Objectives:

During your time as a volunteer on this program you may undertake various activities such as those listed below. These activities may depend on the project you are located at:

* Helping to construct a turtle hatchery
* Describing the nesting dynamics of the female sea turtles that arrive to the beach enabling their protection for the next season
* Protecting and closely monitoring the recovered nests in the hatchery
* Patrolling the beach to look for sea turtles and nests at night, taking turns of two or four hours. During the high season, the patrols could last up to four or five hours
* Moving nests from the beach to the hatchery
* Marking turtles that are nesting, trying to build a nest or returning to the ocean
* Searching for marked turtles and collecting data
* Collecting the eggs you find on the beach, and taking them to the hatchery ("vivero") for protection
* Gathering information on the whole process by monitoring the hatchery and keeping track of every event
* Releasing "neonatos" (baby sea turtles) from the hatchery, by taking them to the beach and letting them go near the ocean
* Helping with maintenance of the facilities of the project (the shelter), and ensuring the beach is kept clean (during the day)
* Planting trees in different areas of the beach and town

Please note that hatchery duty takes place in two-hour shifts and night patrols can last for around three hours, sometime more in high season. The work can take place during both the day and night.

You will be assigned to one of two locations. If you are traveling with a friend don't forget to let us know so that we can ensure you will be based at the same location.

Languages

• English
• Spanish

Cost in US$:

from USD 1,019.00

Cost Includes:

• Housing
• Food
• Pre-departure orientation/Training
• In-country orientation/Training
• In-country staff support

Program Fees Include:

What's Included in the Program:

* Accommodation
* All meals during the project (breakfast, lunch and dinner)
* Airport pick-up
* Support from in-country coordinators
* 24-hours emergency support number

Experience Required

no

Volunteer Types

This Program is open to

Worldwide Participants. This Program is also open to Couples and Individuals.

Typical Living Arrangements

• Group living
• Guest House

Participants Travel

Independently or in Groups

Real Gap Experience's Mission Statement

We offer over 250 projects and travel options in over 35 countries. So whether you are interested in volunteering, community work, conservation, paid work overseas, teaching English, learning a new skill, adventure travel or sports and expeditions, you will find what you are looking for with Real Gap. Not only about we passionate about responsible travel, we also want to make sure you have a good time too! Our travel advisers have traversed the globe and taken their own gap years, so they can give you all the advice you need to plan yours. You will also get support from both our on-site and office staff who understand the needs and expectations of Real Gap travelers.

Year Founded

2005