Turtles in El Paredón Guatemala: Release Tour

La Poza del Nance — Turtle Watching and Release on the Pacific Coast

Seeing turtles in El Paredón Guatemala is one of the most special experiences in Central America's Pacific region. Every year, between July and December, sea turtles come to the volcanic sand beaches of Sipacate and El Paredón to nest. La Poza del Nance is one of the most active nesting sites in the region. The Turtle Tour at Poza del Nance lasts approximately 3.5 hours and includes transfer, a bilingual guide, and the experience of releasing baby turtles into the sea. It's a family-friendly, educational, and deeply emotional activity. If you want to see turtles in Guatemala without traveling far, El Paredón is the most accessible option from the capital: only 1.5 hours from Guatemala City. The journey is through Sipacate-Naranjo National Park, a protected natural reserve where turtle conservation is active. You can also explore the park's mangroves with the 2-day Kayak Tour.

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When can you see turtles in El Paredón?

Turtle season in El Paredón runs from July to December, with peak activity between August and October. During these months, hawksbill, leatherback, and olive ridley turtles arrive to nest on the beaches. Night tours are highly recommended to observe nesting and hatchling releases.

How much does the turtle tour cost in El Paredón?

The Turtle Tour at Poza del Nance in El Paredón lasts 3.5 hours. The price includes boat transfer, certified guide, and the hatchling release experience. Please inquire directly about availability and updated prices for your visit date, as they are season-dependent.

Is seeing turtles on the tour guaranteed?

Turtle sightings are nature-dependent and are more guaranteed during peak season (August-October). Guides know the nesting spots and optimize your chances of seeing activity. Even if there's no active nesting, the nighttime beach and park tour is a valuable experience.

Is the turtle tour safe for children?

Yes. The turtle tour in El Paredón is family-friendly and suitable for children over 5 years old. The tour is by boat and on foot along the beach, with no risky activities. It is one of the best educational experiences to teach environmental conservation to younger generations.

What kind of turtles are seen in El Paredón?

In El Paredón and the Sipacate area, the most common turtle species seen is the olive ridley (Lepidochelys olivacea), which is the most common species in the Guatemalan Pacific. There is also occasional presence of leatherback and hawksbill turtles. Olive ridleys arrive in large groups called 'arribadas'.

How do you get to Poza del Nance from El Paredón?

La Poza del Nance is accessed by boat from El Paredón, navigating through the Chiquimulilla Canal towards Sipacate-Naranjo National Park. The tour includes boat transportation. The journey along the canal takes approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on the starting point.

Can I see turtles without booking a tour?

It is not recommended. La Poza del Nance is located within a protected area, and access without a guide can disturb nests. Certified guides know the correct routes, minimize environmental impact, and ensure that the experience respects both the animals and Guatemalan law.