Tortugario de Cuyutlán
A vital sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles, offering unique release experiences and lagoon tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Turtle release season
Tortugario de Cuyutlán
Best Time
Turtle release season
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A vital sanctuary dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles, offering unique release experiences and lagoon tours.
"As close as you can come to beautiful sea turtles. Amazing sanctuary, clean and orderly."
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for turtle releases and lagoon tours, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking around the sanctuary and during the boat tour.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Baby Turtle Release
El Tortugario beach
Witness the heartwarming sight of newly hatched sea turtles making their first journey to the ocean. A truly unforgettable conservation experience.
Lagoon Boat Tour
Cuyutlán Lagoon
Explore the rich biodiversity of the wetland lagoon by boat, spotting diverse bird species and potentially crocodiles in their natural habitat.
Turtle Conservation Education
El Tortugario visitor center
Learn about the vital conservation efforts for sea turtles and their importance to the ecosystem through informative talks and exhibits.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Turtle Release
Lagoon Boat Tour Essentials
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for turtle releases and lagoon tours, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking around the sanctuary and during the boat tour.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, particularly during the lagoon boat tour.
📸 Capture the Moment
Great photo opportunities, especially during turtle releases and wildlife spotting.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Tours in Advance
Secure your spot for turtle releases and lagoon tours, especially during peak season.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for walking around the sanctuary and during the boat tour.
🦟 Bring Insect Repellent
Protect yourself from mosquitoes, particularly during the lagoon boat tour.
📸 Capture the Moment
Great photo opportunities, especially during turtle releases and wildlife spotting.
💰 Affordable Experience
Reasonable entrance fees for turtle sanctuary and boat tour.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise El Tortugario for its incredible sea turtle experiences, from holding hatchlings to witnessing releases. The adjacent lagoon boat tour is also highly recommended for its abundant wildlife viewing. While some express reservations about animals in captivity, the educational value and conservation efforts are widely acknowledged and appreciated.
"As close as you can come to beautiful sea turtles. Amazing sanctuary, clean and orderly. Definitely worth the visit"
Andres
"This site saves and rehabs turtles and also has a fabulous boat tour of the adjacent, protected and breathtaking lovely wetland lagoon. No dogs allowed because of the abundance of wildlife. This sanctuary is a must see. 60 pesos per person for the turtles plus 60 pesos for the boat tour of the lagoon."
Loretta Pompeii
"I do hold a love hate for this place as I don't like the animals in captivity, however the education opportunities and efforts are undeniable. On national holidays you can see talks to hundreds of keen children and adults all learning about turtles.
Also don't miss the boat ride in the lagoon. Lots of birds, crocs and other wildlife and well worth the visit."
Daniel Patman
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
El Tortugario is located in Cuyutlán, Armería, Colima. You can reach it by car or local transportation from nearby towns like Manzanillo or Colima City. Many visitors combine a visit with exploring the 'Ola Verde' beach.
Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors arriving by car. It's advisable to arrive early during busy periods.
Local buses may run to Cuyutlán, from where you can take a short taxi ride to El Tortugario. Check local schedules for the most up-to-date information.
Renting a car or hiring a taxi are convenient options for traveling between Manzanillo and El Tortugario, offering flexibility to explore the coast.
Several tour operators in Colima City offer day trips that often include El Tortugario and other local attractions. Booking in advance is recommended.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees are generally affordable, with separate charges for the turtle sanctuary and the lagoon boat tour. Expect around 60 pesos for each.
Operating hours can vary, but it's generally open during daylight hours. It's best to check their official social media or contact them directly for the most current information.
While not always mandatory, booking the turtle release experience in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, to ensure availability.
Information on discounts for specific age groups may vary. It's advisable to inquire directly with the sanctuary staff upon arrival or when booking.
Yes, El Tortugario is open on national holidays and often hosts special educational talks, making it a great time to visit and learn.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see various stages of sea turtle life, learn about conservation efforts, and take a boat tour of the adjacent lagoon to see diverse wildlife like birds and crocodiles.
The baby turtle release is seasonal, typically from June to December. The exact timing depends on nesting and hatching cycles.
The boat tour offers a scenic journey through the mangrove-rich lagoon, providing excellent opportunities for birdwatching and spotting other wildlife.
Yes, knowledgeable guides are available to provide insights into the turtles' life cycle and the sanctuary's conservation work.
Yes, during the release program, visitors often have the opportunity to hold a baby turtle before helping it reach the sea.
📸 📸 Photography
The baby turtle release is a prime photo moment. The lagoon boat tour also offers stunning shots of wildlife and mangrove landscapes.
Photography is generally allowed, but always be respectful of the animals and other visitors. Avoid using flash photography directly at the turtles.
A zoom lens is useful for capturing wildlife on the lagoon tour. For turtle releases, a standard lens is usually sufficient.
Drone usage may be restricted to protect wildlife. It's best to check with the sanctuary staff before flying a drone.
Yes, you can photograph the educational displays to remember what you've learned about turtle conservation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, bring sunscreen and hats, and consider packing snacks and drinks. The educational talks are usually engaging for all ages, making it a memorable and enriching experience for the whole family.
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts & Birdwatchers
Recommendations: Dedicate ample time for the lagoon boat tour to maximize wildlife viewing. Bring binoculars and a good camera to capture the diverse avian life and other creatures. The educational aspect of the sanctuary will also appeal to those interested in conservation science.
🌍 Eco-Conscious Travelers
+1Key takeaways: Understand the impact of your choices on the environment. Support organizations like El Tortugario that are making a tangible difference. Learn how to reduce your plastic consumption and protect marine life even after your visit.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Importance of Sea Turtle Conservation
+1Visitors have the unique opportunity to learn about the different species of sea turtles that frequent the Colima coast, such as the Olive Ridley and Leatherback turtles. Educational programs highlight the challenges these creatures face and the importance of community involvement in their survival. The center also focuses on raising awareness about the impact of human activities on marine ecosystems.
+1The dedication of the staff and volunteers at El Tortugario is evident in their hands-on approach. From carefully collecting eggs to protect them from predators to the emotional moment of releasing hatchlings into the vast ocean, every step is managed with expertise and care. This immersive experience offers a profound connection to nature and a deeper understanding of conservation challenges.
Exploring the Cuyutlán Lagoon
Navigating the calm waters of the lagoon, you'll also have the chance to spot other fascinating wildlife, including iguanas basking in the sun and, if you're lucky, American crocodiles. The dense mangrove forests lining the waterways create a unique and beautiful landscape, teeming with life. The guides are adept at pointing out hidden creatures and sharing insights into the lagoon's delicate balance.
The boat tour is a peaceful contrast to the more active turtle release. It’s an excellent way to appreciate the broader biodiversity of the region and understand how different natural environments support various forms of life. The gentle pace allows for quiet observation and appreciation of the natural world.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit