10th Annual Sea Turtle Conservation Fair

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Olive Ridley Hatchling Sea Turtles waddling their way to life at sea.

Turtles! Turtles! Turtles! If it seems like that's all we talk about that's because they are kinda a really big deal. Especially this time of year. Hatchling season has just begun and there are fewer things on this planet cuter or more delicate than a sweet little baby sea turtle.

Like waiting for the first rains of the season, we are all counting the days, fingers crossed, to the resurfacing of these little babes to help release them to a long life at sea. With each species in some state of endangerment; critically, threatened, or vulnerable, every little one gives us hope for the future.

Tipico dancing exhibition at the fair - local kids in traditional pollera (poyera) dress

We value their precious little lives for so many reasons: the health of our reef systems and sea grass beds, eco system balance in the ocean, nutrient deposits on the beach, control of jellyfish populations, and ecotourism. In fact, they are SO important that our community has an entire 3-day fair to celebrate and share with the world why we should focus our conservation efforts on preservation of these species.

This year, our local conservation foundation - Fundación de Agua y Tierra, (FUNDAT / Foundation for Water and Earth), celebrates the 10th annual Sea Turtle Conservation Fair. The fair attracts thousands of conservation minded visitors from all over the world to learn, participate, and celebrate together what FUNDAT has created in our tiny little town since 2009.

Competition hulling rice using a mano de pilón

The fair is a truly wonderful way for locals and visitors alike to experience a unique side of Panama - one rooted in community, nature, and conservation. A home-grown event that brings people together to experience authentic local culture, food, artisan crafts, music, and a reminder of how a small community like ours can have such a profound impact on the conservation of sea turtles and our natural environment we all depend on.

The fair has also become an incredible resource for other conservation groups and governmental agencies to share with the population what is being done around the country to protect its natural resources.

During hatchling season: August through February, our guests have the incredible opportunity to release baby turtles, patrol the beaches at night for nesting females and eggs, as well as learn about these incredible animals and how we can all be a part of their protection.

Ngäbe Bügle women at their artisan craft booth selling their hand woven chácara bags

There's no better place to stay than with us. Walking distance to the fair so you can come and go as you like. If you or anyone you know loves Turtles, Monkeys, Trees, and nature in general, we invite you come experience this for yourselves and stay with us!

Your Friends in Morrillo,

Cari and Ryan Mackey

Owners and Hosts

Morrillo Beach Eco Resort

Sand turtle building competition