Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Ostional Wildlife Refuge is a renowned site for observing the mass nesting of olive ridley sea turtles, providing a unique opportunity for wildlife enthusiasts to witness this natural spectacle.
About Ostional Wildlife Refuge
Located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Ostional Wildlife Refuge is one of the world's most significant nesting grounds for olive ridley sea turtles. Spanning both marine and terrestrial environments, the refuge was established in 1984 to protect the turtles' nesting habitats. The most notable event in the refuge is the 'arribada,' a phenomenon where thousands of sea turtles come ashore to lay eggs over several days. These occur regularly throughout the year, with the largest numbers from August to December. In addition to olive ridleys, leatherback and Pacific green turtles also sporadically nest here. The refuge's coast is a crucial reproductive site, with its warm sands providing ideal conditions for egg incubation. Visitors can not only observe the nesting process but also see hatchlings emerge and make their way to the ocean. Besides turtles, the refuge supports a variety of wildlife, including diverse bird species and marine life. Due to its biodiversity and conservation value, Ostional is a focus of ecological research and education.
Highlights
Mass nesting event of olive ridley sea turtles.
Opportunities to engage in organized turtle watch tours.
Diverse birdwatching opportunities with numerous species.
Exploration of both beach and marine ecosystems.
Notable Natural Features
Arribada Event
Witness tens of thousands of olive ridley sea turtles nesting on the shores in a synchronized event.
Turtle Hatcheries
Protected areas where turtle eggs are safeguarded until they hatch and are released into the ocean.
Birdwatching Sites
The refuge's varied ecosystems provide opportunities to observe numerous species of coastal and migratory birds.