Todos Santos

Located near the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula about 45 miles north of Cabo San Lucas, this charming coastal town has comfortable hotels, great restaurants, and fine artisans. Their beach is also a prominent turtle nesting spot that members of the community work hard to protect. The town offers great surfing, whale watching, sea kayaking, snorkeling, and more. Founded nearly 300 years ago, Todos Santos is a popular ecotourism destination with a rich history and culture.

Turtle Conservation Efforts

Operated by former poachers, biologists, and local residents, the Todos Tortugueros project is a unique experiment in turtle conservation efforts. Two species nest here, olive ridleys and occasionally leatherbacks. Since the sand is cooler on this beach, local researchers have pioneered the use of an "invernadero" (greenhouse in Spanish) to keep the eggs at a warm enough temperature to hatch (see photo at right). The program conducts nightly beach patrols, manages a hatchery, and educates local children on conservation and biology.

Though illegal, poaching of sea turtles and eggs is still common in the region, though projects like this one are helping to increase turtle populations. The local group coordinates with conservation organization ASUPMATOMA (Association for the Protection of the Environment and the Marine Turtle) to protect these beaches.

Volunteers at this project have the opportunity to participate in beach patrols, monitor the invernadero, and work with hatchlings. Additional activities available are visiting other nearby turtle camps, kayaking with sea lions, and hiking to a desert waterfall.

Check out our videos and slideshows.

Links & Articles

Todos Tortugueros

ASUPMATOMA

Baja Insider Article - San Diego Teacher Turns to Saving Turtles in Baja

Information on the Town

La Sirena Kayak & Surf

Intelligent Travel (National Geographic Adventure Blog) - Cabo Sea Turtles in Danger

Mexican Pacific Article