The Galibi Turtles

The Galibi Nature Reserve, on a remote stretch of Suriname's northeastern coast near the mouth of the Marowijne River bordering French Guiana, is one of the most important sea-turtle nesting sites in the region. On its beaches, several species of sea turtle come ashore to lay their eggs, including the enormous leatherback, the largest turtle on earth, which can weigh over half a tonne. Witnessing one of these ancient giants slowly haul herself up the moonlit sand to dig her nest, or watching tiny hatchlings scramble to the sea, is a moving and unforgettable natural spectacle in a beautiful, wild setting.

What you actually see

• The nesting leatherbacks - the giant turtles laying eggs on the beach.
• The hatchlings - the tiny turtles scrambling to the sea.
• The remote beaches - the wild coastal reserve.
• The Indigenous villages - the local communities near the reserve.

When to go

The nesting season runs roughly from February to August, with different species peaking at different times and the giant leatherbacks especially around April to July; the turtles come ashore at night, so tours are timed for the evening. The reserve is reached by road to Albina and then a boat trip along the coast.

Honest expectations

It is remote, reached by a long journey and a boat trip, and the turtle nesting, though reliable in season, is a wild natural event viewed at night under strict rules to protect the animals, so patience and respect are essential and sightings are never guaranteed; facilities are basic. For the profound experience of witnessing giant sea turtles nesting on a wild, moonlit beach, though, Galibi is a genuine and moving wildlife highlight.

Nearby

The border town of Albina and the Marowijne River are the gateways.