From Huatulco: Crocodile and Turtle Eco-Tour

Thinking about adding a nature-focused day to your trip around Huatulco? This Crocodile and Turtle Eco-Tour offers a glimpse into the vibrant ecosystems of Oaxaca, blending adventure with conservation. It’s a well-rounded experience that takes you off the beaten path, offering authentic encounters with local wildlife and the chance to participate in meaningful conservation work.

What really caught our eye about this tour is the combination of wildlife observation—especially seeing crocodiles in their natural habitat—and the heartwarming experience of releasing baby sea turtles onto the beach. Plus, it’s touted as eco-friendly, emphasizing respect for the environment, which makes it appealing for conscious travelers. That said, it’s not perfect for everyone; the tour involves walking, some boat rides, and a bit of cash handling, so be prepared.

This tour is particularly well-suited for those who love nature and want a meaningful, hands-on experience. If you’re traveling with a curious mind, an interest in conservation, or simply looking for a different perspective of Oaxaca beyond the beaches, this could be a solid pick.

Key Points

• Eco-Focused Experience: Emphasizes conservation and environmental respect throughout the tour.
• Wildlife Observation: Offers the chance to see crocodiles, birds, green iguanas, and more in their natural habitats.
• Interactive Conservation: Participating in baby sea turtle releases adds a feel-good element.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Guides, transportation, and some entry fees are included, but expect to pay cash for some extras.
• Duration & Flexibility: The 7-hour trip balances enough time for exploration without feeling rushed.
• Suitable for Curious Travelers: Great for those who appreciate nature, wildlife, and conservation efforts.

This tour begins with a pickup service from La Crucecita, making logistics simple for visitors staying nearby. From there, the journey takes you about an hour and a half south to Ventanilla, a community renowned for its dedication to protecting local ecosystems. The trip is arranged as a private group, which means a more personalized experience, with bilingual guides who can switch between Spanish and English.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Visiting Ventanilla Lagoon: Wildlife in Action

Once in Ventanilla, you’ll walk around 15 minutes to reach the boat launch. The real highlight here is the eco-friendly rowboat tour of the lagoon, where you get very close to crocodiles in their natural environment. The boats are small, allowing for a more intimate and less intrusive experience compared to larger tour boats. From the water, you’ll observe crocodiles basking in the sun, along with a variety of native and migratory birds, green iguanas, and even white-tailed deer in the surrounding mangroves.

Several reviews mention the quality of the guides, who are knowledgeable and passionate about their work. One person noted, “We loved the way the guides explained how they’re actively working to preserve the ecosystem, making it more than just a sightseeing trip.” The stop at a small island within the lagoon also offers a chance to visit the UMA (Environmental Management Unit), learn about local conservation efforts, and explore the crocodile museum. This educational component enriches the experience, giving visitors insight into the ecological challenges and successes in the area.

Keep in mind that the entrance fee to the lagoon (around 250 MXN per person) isn’t included, and it’s paid in cash, so come prepared. Some reviews mentioned that the fee might seem steep, but most agreed that the chance to see crocodiles and birds up close makes it worthwhile.

Visit to the Ecotourism Center at Playa Escobilla

After exploring Ventanilla, you’ll transfer to the La Escobilla Ecotourism Center, a critical nesting site for sea turtles. Here, you’ll get to participate in the release of baby sea turtles onto the beach. This is often hailed as the most emotional part of the tour—seeing tiny turtle hatchlings take their first steps toward the ocean is quite a moment.

Local guides will explain the conservation importance of this activity and teach you how to do it properly. Some travelers have even named their turtles, adding a personal touch to the experience. The tour provides about 40 minutes at this site, which gives enough time to watch the turtles and enjoy the natural surroundings.

Again, there’s a cash fee of 250 MXN per person to participate in the turtle release, which isn’t included in the overall price. Several reviewers appreciated that the guides were clear about the process and emphasized the importance of respecting the turtles’ journey.

Practical Details and Tips

The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, which is a good length—long enough to feel like an adventure but not so tiring that you need a rest day afterward. Transportation is in an air-conditioned vehicle, and guides are bilingual, making the information accessible whether you speak English or Spanish.

You should bring comfortable shoes, sunscreen (preferably biodegradable), a hat, sunglasses, and cash for entrance fees and tips. Insect repellent is also recommended, especially if you’re sensitive to bugs. Note that the tour isn’t suitable for people with back problems due to the walking and boat rides involved.

How the Tour Is Valued

For $191 per person, this tour offers a unique window into the ecology of Oaxaca, blending wildlife observation with active conservation. While the entrance fees for the lagoon and turtle release are extra, the price mainly covers transportation, guides, and the overall organization. When you consider the exclusivity of seeing crocodiles in the wild and the chance to directly participate in turtle conservation, many find the price justified.

Authenticities and Real Experiences

Many travelers have shared positive impressions, especially praising the knowledge and friendliness of the guides. One reviewer said, “The guides really care about the animals and conservation, which made the experience even more meaningful.” Others appreciated the opportunity for close-up wildlife viewing—something they wouldn’t get on a typical sightseeing tour.

Some downsides mentioned include the cash payments for fees, which can be inconvenient if you’re not prepared, and the timing—expect to start early and spend much of the day outdoors. A few also noted that the experience might not be suitable for very young children or those with mobility issues, given the walking and boat components.

If you’re someone who loves nature and wants to see Oaxaca’s biodiversity firsthand, this tour checks the box. It’s ideal for eco-conscious travelers who appreciate conservation and are interested in wildlife. It’s also perfect for those looking for a more meaningful, interactive experience beyond typical beach days or city tours.

Travelers who enjoy educational outings and aren’t bothered by some walking and cash payments will find this to be a rewarding choice. It’s less suited for families with very young children or individuals with mobility issues, due to the walking and boat rides involved.

This Crocodile and Turtle Eco-Tour strikes a nice balance between adventure, education, and conservation. It’s a chance to see wildlife in its natural habitat, learn about ongoing ecological efforts, and contribute to the protection of species like sea turtles. The experience feels authentic, with guides who are passionate and knowledgeable, and the small-group format keeps it personal and engaging.

While the additional entrance fees might seem like a hassle, they’re part of an effort to fund local conservation projects, which adds meaning to the activity. If you’re craving a day that combines wildlife viewing with a feel-good conservation story, this tour is definitely worth considering.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While not explicitly stated, the tour involves walking, boat rides, and some standing for periods, so it might be best suited for older children or teenagers. Always check with the guide for specific age recommendations.

How long does the entire tour take?
The entire experience lasts about 7 hours, including transportation, visits, and activities.

Are the entrance fees included in the tour price?
No, the entrance fee to Ventanilla lagoon (250 MXN) and the fee for turtle releases (250 MXN) are paid separately and in cash.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, biodegradable sunscreen, a hat, sunglasses, biodegradable insect repellent, cash, and comfortable clothing are recommended.

Is the tour eco-friendly?
Yes, it’s promoted as an eco-tour with a focus on conservation and respecting the environment.

Will I see crocodiles in the wild?
Yes, during the lagoon tour, you’ll observe crocodiles basking in their natural habitat.

Can I participate in the turtle release?
Absolutely. Guides will teach you how to release the hatchlings, and you can even name your turtle.

Is the transportation air-conditioned?
Yes, the vehicle used for transfers is air-conditioned.

What language are guides available in?
Guides speak both Spanish and English.

How do I book this tour?
You can reserve through the provider, Huitzil tours and travel, with options to book now and pay later. Cancelation is free if done 24 hours in advance.

This tour offers a genuine peek into Oaxaca’s coastal ecosystems, perfect for those who want a meaningful, hands-on experience with wildlife conservation. It’s not just sightseeing—it’s about understanding and supporting the environment, all while enjoying a full day of discovery.

You can check availability for your dates here: