Ostional National Wildlife Refuge: Protecting Marine Turtles

Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Ostional National Wildlife Refuge is one of the most significant sites in the world for marine turtle conservation. Established in 1984, the refuge protects critical nesting grounds—especially for the olive ridley turtle (Lepidochelys olivacea)—and offers a rare and unforgettable experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

🐢 A Sanctuary for Turtles

Every year between July and December, thousands of olive ridley turtles arrive en masse in a phenomenon known as the “arribada.” This spectacular event, where hundreds or even thousands of turtles come ashore at once to lay their eggs, is a powerful reminder of nature’s rhythm and resilience.

• Each female turtle lays 80–100 eggs, digging deep nests in the warm coastal sands.
• Hatchlings emerge weeks later, beginning their journey to the sea under the watchful eyes of guides, researchers, and eco-conscious visitors.

---

🌱 Why Ostional Matters

Ostional is unique in its approach to conservation. It combines wildlife protection with community sustainability through a regulated egg collection program:

• Local communities are permitted to ethically harvest a limited number of eggs from early arribadas, which wouldn’t likely survive due to natural nest overlap.
• This initiative supports local livelihoods and ensures long-term protection of nesting sites.

---

📚 Conservation & Education

The refuge doesn’t stop at preservation—it actively promotes education and awareness:

• Guided tours help visitors understand the life cycle of marine turtles.
• Conservation programs engage both tourists and locals, fostering responsible ecotourism.
• Schools and community members participate in environmental education, ensuring that future generations continue to protect Ostional’s rich biodiversity.

---

🏝️ Visiting Tip: Plan your trip during a predicted arribada for the best chance to witness this rare phenomenon—usually a few days before the new moon between July and December.

---

Whether you’re passionate about marine life or simply looking for a meaningful nature experience, visiting Ostional National Wildlife Refuge offers a chance to be part of one of Costa Rica’s most iconic conservation stories.

---

🌊 Ready to explore Ostional? Reach out to us for tour information, best visiting times, and how to experience this marvel of nature responsibly.