Summer Camp in Costa Rica: sea turtle conservation

  • Turtle, marine conservation
  • Costa Rica, Osa Peninsula
  • Aged 15 to 17
  • English
  • 14 days
  • €2,590

An exceptional educational camp in Costa Rica, offering a rewarding combination of environmental engagement and cultural immersion. See all our programmes for teenagers and children here.

Protection of turtle nesting beaches

The conservation programme aims to preserve the ecosystem of the sea turtle nesting beaches on the Osa Peninsula. The monitored site covers 8 km of coastline, with over 7,000 nests recorded each season. Your participation as a volunteer will have a tangible impact on the survival of the turtles and on the local community. The team is deeply committed to this project and expects every volunteer to give their all to achieve the set objectives.

The work of young eco-volunteers in marine conservation

Take part in a unique sea turtle conservation programme on the beaches of Costa Rica. Alternate between exploring the country’s natural wonders and getting hands-on with a marine conservation project that has a direct impact on local biodiversity.

  • Patrols to protect new nests
  • Data collection on females during the laying period
  • Helping with fin tagging
  • Clearing out hatched nests and assisting with the release of the hatchlings
  • Beach clean-up and sorting of plastic waste
  • Teaching English to local residents
  • Educational presentations in schools across the region
  • Involvement in reforestation projects
  • Maintenance work around the camp

An example of a typical day as a volunteer (Costa Rica – sea turtle conservation project)

  • 7.00 am: breakfast at the camp with the team.
  • 8.00 am: taking part in daytime activities: beach clean-ups, sorting plastic, tree planting or activities in schools.
  • 11.30 am: free time or relaxing on the beach. 1.00 pm – 2.00 pm: lunch
  • 2.30 pm: continuation of conservation projects or workshops (teaching English, maintenance work, raising local awareness).
  • 7.00 pm: dinner, followed by a night patrol on the beach (monitoring egg-laying, protecting nests, releasing baby turtles).
  • Price: €2,590 per person
  •  From 22 July to 3 August 2026.

Included in the price: Accommodation, most meals, local transport, training and orientation, a dedicated coordinator, 24/7
emergency assistance Not included in the price: international/domestic flights, optional excursions, personal expenses, medical insurance, some meals on tour days

  • Physics: Full commitment required; flexible weekly timetables
  • Minimum contract period: 14 days
  • Support: A dedicated group coordinator and on-site staff
  • Exploring Costa Rica’s iconic natural sites (Poás Volcano, La Paz Waterfalls, Manuel Antonio National Park)
  • Active participation in a sea turtle conservation programme
  • An immersive experience in a stunning natural setting, with opportunities to observe local wildlife
  • A combination of tourist activities and environmental commitment
  • Direct impact on the conservation of endangered species

Accommodation: Mixed-gender dormitory-style cabins (8–10 volunteers), shared kitchen and lounge
area Food: Mainly vegetarian meals included throughout the stay (full board during the project, half board outside project hours)
Facilities: Electricity and Wi-Fi available on site
Arrival: Pick-up at San José airport and return transfers included
Inclusions: Accommodation, most meals, local transport, fo

  • Observing local wildlife (monkeys, birds, small mammals and amphibians)
  • Exploring the natural surroundings around the camp (river, canopy)
  • A chance to enjoy the beaches and scenery of the Osa Peninsula
  • Immersion in the local culture through interaction with the community
freepackers

The partner organisation

The partner organisation’s mission is to encourage participation in ethical and sustainable development projects. It connects NGOs, social welfare organisations and government bodies with volunteers. It promotes solidarity-based and participatory travel. The partner is a certified WYSE Travel Confederation Member. WYSE is a global non-profit organisation representing youth and student travel operators worldwide.  It is also a member of the AFNOR commission for the development of the international standard on responsible tourism, a member of the international mobility committee, a certified Australia specialist, accredited by the international ICEF group, a member of the EAIE (European Centre of Expertise, Networking and Resources for the Internationalisation of Higher Education) and a member of the travel4impact Network.

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Laurence