Audio Guide of the Turtle Nesting Area on Iguana Island

The Iguana Island Wildlife Refuge is open daily from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm. Access is only by boat from Arenal Beach (20 min). Arrange your transport with local operators such as Pedasí Adventures. Always check availability during the rainy season.

The conservation fee is $10 for foreigners and $5 for nationals. Some tours include this cost in their package. We recommend contacting authorized operators such as Tours Panama for all-inclusive options (transport, guide, and admission).

The full experience (transfer + guided visit) takes half a day. You can explore the nesting trails (1-2 hours) and enjoy the coral reef. Include time for snorkeling and the beach. Bring sunscreen and water.

Iguana Island is one of Panama's main nesting sites for hawksbill and olive ridley turtles, both endangered species. It was declared a Wildlife Refuge in 1981 and protects 58 hectares of marine ecosystem. Each turtle can lay up to 150 eggs per nest!

The peak nesting season is from July to October. Sightings are more frequent at night with specialized tours, although they require advance booking. During the day, you can see tracks and marked nests. Check with the Ministry of Environment for updated regulations.

Access presents challenges: it requires a boat crossing and walking along sandy trails and uneven terrain. There is no adapted infrastructure. Contact operators such as Amador Foundation to assess options based on specific needs.

Nearby, do not miss: 1) Arenal Beach (boarding point), 2) the town of Pedasí (15 km) with its colonial architecture, and 3) the Pablo Arturo Barrios Wildlife Refuge. More info at Pedasí Tourism.

1) Wear non-slip footwear 2) Drones are prohibited without a permit 3) Do not touch nests or turtles 4) Use only biodegradable sunscreen 5) Bring cash (there is no ATM). More tips in our guide to nature refuges.