A program with over a decade of commitment
Since 2008, Eco-Bahia has been authorized to carry out sea turtle protection and conservation activities at Playa Aventuras, Riviera Maya. Each nesting season, the program documents the total number of nests per species, protected nests, preserved eggs, and hatchlings released.
Over the years, Eco-Bahia has become responsible for the most important beach in the country for Loggerhead Turtle (Caretta caretta) nesting, a species classified as endangered. The data collected has become a valuable contribution to state and national research projects.
The conservation team, known as tortugueros, is made up of biologists, veterinarians, and environmental engineers with experience in nesting camps. Their work begins each night at 8:00 p.m. and can last until 7:00 a.m., attending to nesting females, protecting nests, and releasing hatchlings.
During the day, activities include patrols, GPS data collection, photographic records, nest inspections, and database updates. Although most hatchlings emerge at night, daytime reports are also part of continuous monitoring.
Environmental education and academic collaboration
The program operates year-round in coordination with Bahia Principe Riviera Maya Resort. Before the nesting season begins, awareness workshops are provided to hotel staff to strengthen environmental responsibility and emphasize how each team can contribute to protecting sea turtles and their habitat.
Additionally, Eco-Bahia welcomes biology students and related fields every year for internships and thesis research. Thanks to agreements with technological universities in Mexico, interns receive specialized training and participate in fieldwork during a minimum three-month stay.
Beyond the numbers, the work of the tortugueros reflects true dedication and commitment. Night after night they face challenges such as assisting females with complications during nesting or helping those with mutilated flippers to dig their nests. At times, they must intervene to ensure eggs are properly covered with sand and not left exposed on the surface.
These experiences make the program a deeply rewarding mission, where every action contributes to preserving an endangered species and protecting the marine ecosystems of Riviera Maya.
Recycled Paper Workshop in Playa del Carmen
Eco-Bahia Drives Marine Conservation in Riviera Maya