Experience an arribada, when thousands of turtles come ashore

In the Ostional Wildlife Refuge you can witness an impressive natural spectacle: the arrival of thousands of olive ridley sea turtles during the ‘arribada’. This mass arrival takes place several times a year, especially around the new moon when the turtles come ashore in their thousands to lay their eggs. At nightfall you can watch the animals as they struggle out of the sea onto the beach, dig their nests and then place their eggs inside.

To make the most of this unforgettable experience, it is worth joining a guided tour at sunset or early in the morning. Tours often start at a small restaurant on Ostional beach and are led by experienced guides who respect the behaviour of the turtles. Red light filters are required so as not to disturb the turtles while you enjoy this unique experience. It is especially quiet on Sundays, when there are fewer visitors.