Mateare, Nicaragua
Sea turtle conservation adventure: Protect endangered species & immerse in the coastal nature of Nicaragua.
Dive into a hands-on conservation journey on Nicaragua's stunning coastline. As a traveler, you will join a dedicated team to protect olive ridley and leatherback turtles. From nighttime beach patrols to managing hatcheries and releasing baby turtles into the Pacific, this experience is about real-world impact. Between shifts, connect with a global community of eco-conscious travelers and soak in the raw, salty beauty of a remote tropical paradise.
- David
- Worldpackers host since Nov/2025
Available group trips
Dec 01, 2027 - Dec 07, 2027
Coming soonMore dates available soon
Dates to book this experience for 2026 and 2027 will be available soon, stay tuned!
Starting from
US$ 1,060
Itinerary
Day 1
Evening
The Mission Begins
Join an introductory talk to dive deep into the project's conservation goals and impact. Afterward, take your first walk to the hatchery to see where the magic happens.
Welcome Feast
The group gathers for an authentic Nicaraguan dinner to kick off the journey. This first meal is the perfect time to meet fellow travelers and bond over the mission ahead.
Starlit Connection
Unwind after dinner with a traditional bonfire under the stars. Share stories and soak in the raw coastal atmosphere of the island as the adventure officially begins.
Day 2
Morning
Island Morning Fuel
Start your day with a fresh, local breakfast prepared at the station.
Mastery Workshop: Theory & Practice
Dive into a high-impact masterclass covering sea turtle tagging, biometrics, and the delicate art of nest relocation. You’ll master the essential scientific protocols needed to become a guardian of the species, moving from theory to real-world application on the sand.
Afternoon
Coastal Midday Break
Recharge with a traditional meal while overlooking the Pacific.
Conscious Earth Talk
Engage in an eye-opening talk focused on the global solid waste crisis and its direct threat to marine life. This session bridges the gap between consumer habits and the survival of the very ecosystem you are working to protect.
Shoreline Restoration
Take the mission to the field with a beach cleanup designed to remove hazardous debris from nesting grounds. Every piece of plastic cleared directly improves the chances of a successful nesting season for endangered mother turtles.
Data & Eco-Art Studio
Become a researcher by separating, weighing, and analyzing the origins of collected waste for scientific tracking. To wrap up, unleash your creativity in an Art Project, transforming scavenged materials into a powerful visual statement on environmental preservation.
Evening
Sunset Dining
Enjoy a shared meal as the group prepares for the night's high-energy mission.
The Night Watch
Join the expert team for a night patrol along the moonlit dunes. Experience the thrill of scouting for nesting turtles and protecting the future of the coast.
Day 3
Morning
Tropical Energy
Fuel up with a local breakfast before heading into the wetlands.
Restoring the Coastal Roots
Discover the vital role of the mangrove ecosystem followed by hands-on substrate preparation. You will plant red mangrove propagules in the station’s nursery, directly supporting the long-term reforestation of this critical habitat.
Afternoon
Authentic Island Flavors
Gather at the beachfront house for a nutritious lunch with the group.
Into the Forest: Reforestation Trek
Head deep into the forest to plant 2.5-month-old seedlings in a vital reforestation zone located just 20 minutes from the station. Transportation is fully included, allowing the group to focus on this active contribution that restores natural coastal barriers and creates habitats for marine species.
Evening
Coastal Reflection
Share your field experiences over a delicious communal dinner as the sun sets.
New Life Begins: Seasonal Selection
Depending on the time of year, join a moonlit night patrol (available from July onward) to assist nesting turtles. If traveling from September onward, participate in the life-changing experience of releasing baby turtles, witnessing their first journey to the surf.
Day 4
Morning
Morning Gathering
Enjoy a group breakfast as you prepare for a day on the water.
Mangrove Water Safari
Embark on a guided aquatic tour through the winding, emerald mangroves. Explore the hidden biodiversity of this unique ecosystem, spotting rare birds and aquatic species that call these waters home.
Afternoon
Fresh Local Catch
Fuel up with a mid-day meal before diving into local community life.
Living Traditions: Sustainable Harvest
Connect with local community leaders for immersive socio-economic activities like crab catching or black shell harvesting. Gain a deep understanding of how local livelihoods are harmoniously tied to the conservation of the coast.
Evening
Gathering Under Palms
Reflect on the day's cultural immersion during another flavorful Nicaraguan dinner.
Day 5
Morning
Adventure Prep
A quick and healthy breakfast to get you ready for the Pacific waves.
Ride the Swell
Hit the beach for surf lessons on some of Nicaragua’s most pristine waves. Whether you are a pro or a first-timer, this session is all about the adrenaline, the salt air, and a deeper connection to the ocean.
Afternoon
Post-Surf Refuel
Re-energize with a hearty lunch at the station after your time in the water.
Tortilla Workshop
Step into a traditional kitchen for a hands-on cooking workshop with local women. Learn the authentic art of tortilla-making, a staple of Nicaraguan life, and share stories with the people who are the heart of this region.
Evening
The Island Feast
Celebrate your night on the island with a special group dinner and shared memories.
Day 6
Morning
Farewell to the Coast
One more breakfast at the beachfront house before heading to the mountains.
The Ultimate Rush: Volcano Boarding
Embark on a scenic transfer to the volcanic mountain range (a 2-hour journey from the island, with transportation included) for the ultimate adrenaline rush. Slide down the black ash slopes of an active volcano in a bucket-list adventure that truly defines the bold Nicaraguan spirit.
Afternoon
Mountain Peak Fuel
Enjoy lunch with the group as the official conservation program concludes.
Colonial Heritage
A Stroll Through León Head to the historic city of León for a guided tour, culminating in a walk across the brilliant white rooftop of the UNESCO-listed León Cathedral. Take in panoramic views of the "City of Lions" and its volcanic backdrop.
Evening
City Night Celebration
Conclude this epic journey with a final celebratory group dinner in the vibrant heart of León. This inclusive meal is the perfect moment to toast to your shared impact and enjoy the city's lively evening atmosphere before your final night.
Day 7
Morning
Last Goodbyes
A final breakfast with the group before heading to the airport or your next destination.
Farewell & Departure
Time to say goodbye to your team and fellow travelers, heading home with a heart full of impact and memories that will last a lifetime.
What's included
What's not included
Requirements
- Intermediate English or Intermediate Spanish
- Over 18 years old
Activities
See the activities that will make your trip into an epic adventure.
Learning opportunities
Contribute to your project and make a positive impact while developing new skills.
Eco-Education Workshops
Share environmental knowledge and empower the local community.
Pacific Surf Session
Ride the world-class swells of Nicaragua with expert-led surf lessons.
The Tortilla Masterclas
Learn authentic culinary secrets from local women in a traditional kitchen.
Immersion activities
Get to know the local culture and have an authentic travel experience with activities included in your itinerary.
Coastal Cleanups
Scour the shoreline to protect marine life from plastic pollution.
Hatchery Supervision
Guard the nursery and ensure baby turtles have a safe start in life.
Mangrove Water Safari
Navigate hidden emerald waterways to spot rare coastal wildlife.
Scientific Data Collection
Become a citizen scientist by tracking vital nesting and health data.
Nighttime Beach Patrols
Walk the moonlit sands to spot and protect nesting sea turtles.
Turtle Mastery Lab
Master tagging and nest relocation through hands-on conservation science.
Sustainable Harvest
Join locals to catch crabs and shells using traditional, eco-friendly methods.
Green Building Projects
Build sustainable structures using innovative eco-friendly methods.
Volcano Boarding Thrill
Slide down the ash of an active volcano for the ultimate adrenaline rush.
Mangrove Reforestation
Plant vital trees to restore Nicaragua’s precious coastal ecosystems.
León Heritage Heights
Explore historic colonial streets and walk the roof of a UNESCO Cathedral.
Videos
Accommodation options
The Surfside Retreat: Shared Living & Coastal Connection
Stay in a newly renovated beachfront house where the ocean is your alarm clock. Travelers are allocated randomly between our same-gender 8-person dorms—the vibrant social heart of the project—or our more intimate 4-person rooms. Both options offer a breezy, comfortable retreat with fresh linens, pillows, and dedicated mosquito nets for every bed. With shared bathrooms and the Pacific just steps away, you’ll be perfectly positioned for impact. Please note: rooms are assigned upon arrival based on availability, and you must bring your own towel to complete your coastal kit.
- No laundry machine, but there's a free laundry space
Meals
The traveler will enjoy a variety of local flavors with menus that adapt to vegetarian and vegan needs. A typical breakfast might feature fresh fruit and eggs with toast, pancakes, or traditional "gallopinto." Lunches range from fresh fish and chicken with rice to local vegetable stews, while dinners often include plantains, local cheeses, or salads. For group journeys, professional local cooks are hired to prepare these authentic meals; in more intimate settings, the group participates in a collaborative cooking rotation, fostering a true sense of community and shared responsibility.
Arrival orientation
To ensure a smooth start to the journey, a comprehensive travel package is available for 100 USD. The group will be greeted at Augusto C. Sandino International Airport (MGA) by a driver holding a personalized sign for easy identification. For those landing after 2:00 PM, a first night in León is recommended for safety before heading to the beach and crossing the estuary by boat the next day. Upon arrival at the site, every traveler participates in a vital three-day training program to master conservation techniques before starting the field work.
About the project
- Hosted by David
This project is led by a passionate local organization dedicated to marine biology and community empowerment. The hosts are experts in environmental education and coastal management, working tirelessly to bridge the gap between scientific research and community development. By joining them, the traveler supports a team that values transparency and hands-on participation. They provide the guidance needed to make a tangible difference in the local ecosystem through ethical conservation.
About the destination
Located on a pristine stretch of Nicaragua’s Pacific coast, the destination is a haven for biodiversity. This region is famous for its "arribadas," where thousands of sea turtles arrive simultaneously to nest. Far from the crowded tourist trails, the area offers vast sandy beaches, coastal lagoons, and a slow-paced lifestyle. It is a place where the jungle meets the sea, providing a raw and authentic backdrop for travelers looking to disconnect and rediscover nature.
Impact & Purpose
The traveler plays a vital role in preserving marine life by preventing the illegal collection of eggs and ensuring hatchlings reach the ocean safely. Your presence supports local livelihoods and promotes environmental education within the community. This journey is designed to turn passion into action, contributing to the long-term survival of endangered species while fostering a deep respect for the delicate balance of our oceans.
This host contributes to Sustainable Development Goals
Good health and well-being
The group actively contributes to the conservation of marine ecosystems by protecting nesting sites and ensuring the healthy development and release of endangered sea turtle populations into the Pacific Ocean.
Climate action
This experience promotes coastal resilience and environmental awareness, helping to mitigate the impacts of human activity on fragile shorelines and educating the next generation on the importance of biodiversity.
Life below water
The group is directly involved in protecting endangered sea turtles and their habitats. By managing hatcheries and ensuring safe releases, the experience actively conserves marine biodiversity and the health of the Pacific Ocean.
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