Be part of something great while having fun

What:

Project Archelon is a citizen science project. Meaning, everyday people help collect scientific data used by scientists to study sea turtles. This is done through nesting surveys run by interns and volunteers directly on the beaches where female sea turtles come ashore to nest every year.

The work includes walking several kilometers in the sand with little to no light. Upon seeing a seat turtle teams of 3-5 volunteers stay witht he female to ensure that poachers do not strike and next, the volunteers re locate the eggs to the projects hatchery where the hatchlings will hatch. 

Where:

Our biological research station is situated in a picturesque rain forest in Colombia overlooking the Caribbean Coast. In the area there are beautiful beaches and rivers to explore on your free time. There is regular bus service from the main road just 15 minutes (by boat) from the station. 

Our facilities are humble but sophisticated. You will have a private bed in our volunteer bunkhouse. The beds are comfortable and clean and strict rules around hygiene and cleaning duties maintain the station looking good. 

High speed internet and drinks are available at an extra cost so while you will feel secluded you will still be connected with friends and family. 

Picture taken from the hatchery. The water is warm and surf lessons can be arranged on your time off. 

When:

The station accepts volunteers all year around. The busiest season for nesting is July-Nov when green turtles come ashore to nest and Leatherback hatchlings are beginning to emerge.

Volunteers work on patrols and in the hatchery. You WILL get your hands dirty.

Why:

Volunteers love the work they do at the station. Its physically demanding and grueling at times but so rewarding at the end of the day. Many volunteers are left speechless the first time they see a 150kg sea turtle waddling her way up the beach under the moonlight. 

"I'd go back year after year if I could.  I loved the sense of community and learned a lot of skills" Kelly, Australia

 

"Kicking back with a bowl of cheerios after being up all night with nesting turtles.... bliss" Eric, USA

 

" Project Archelon is the kind of place you plan on visiting for 2 weeks and end up staying for 2 months" Adam, Germany

Volunteers heads out on her morning patrol with the station dog 

 To start your adventure, go to our volunteer page and leave us your details.