From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence
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September 2026
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Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
4.7/5
Based on 53 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence worth booking?
From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence is a 9-hour experience in Huatulco, Mexico, from $120 per person. It scores 79 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.7/5 rating across 53 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 79 / 100
- Rating
- 4.7/5 (53)
- Duration
- 9 hours
- From
- $120 per person
*You support the natural ones by raising awareness of the importance of protecting the sea turtles of the Oaxacan Coast *You support newborn turtles to release them into the sea * You enjoy a spectacular landscape of the
What you get
About this experience
*You support the natural ones by raising awareness of the importance of protecting the sea turtles of the Oaxacan Coast *You support newborn turtles to release them into the sea * You enjoy a spectacular landscape of the sun hiding in the sea * You enjoy a night tour entering the one of Manialtepec where you will hear the sound of different insects * You will visualize the phenomenon of Bioluminescence Note: if you are staying in the Puerto Escondido area, the duration of the tour is approximately 5 hours.
What's included
Included
- Entrance to the Manialtepec lagoon for a lagoon tour
- Ticket to release turtles
- Bilingual Certificate Guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
Not included
- tips
- Food and drinks
What you'll see and do
Santuario La Escobilla
Explore the surroundings of Huatulco helping nature, in this spectacular place we will learn about the work of volunteers who are in charge of protecting sea turtles that are in danger of extinction, we will visit a turtle camp where we will witness helping the turtles to release them to the sea to continue their life cycle, likewise we will enjoy a spectacular landscape of the sun hiding in the sea, they will have time to take photos. According to the conditions of nature, the camp to visit can be Escobilla or Palmarito. Note: if you are staying in Puerto Escondido we will be going to another turtle camp called Palmarito.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Playa Zicatela
We will enjoy a spectacular landscape of Zicatela beach, one of the main beaches of Puerto Escondido, where we will have time to take photos and contemplate the beautiful landscape.
25 minutes here
Laguna Manialtepec
The next experience will be knowing the phenomenon of Bioluminescence, a night show where millions of dinoflagellate microorganisms generate brightness when in contact with water as if they were fireflies in the water; enjoy swimming in the warm waters of some of Manialtepec while your eyes delight in the glitter. Observation: It is recommended to bring a towel and a bathing suit to the tour since at this stop you will swim in the lagoon.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 15 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Lamby Tours Huatulco
Know before you go
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 53 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Value for money
3 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Small groups
2 mentionsThe group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.
Traveler reviews
53 verified traveler reviews for From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Turtle release
We would definitely recommend this activity. Was very interesting plus Lamberto our guide for the day plus Jose the helper where very noligable of the turtles. Thx again Lamberto
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind review! We're delighted to hear that you enjoyed the Turtle Release & Bioluminescence experience. It's wonderful to know that Lamberto and José helped make the tour both interesting and educational by sharing their knowledge about sea turtles and conservation. Your recommendation means a lot to us, and we'll be sure to pass along your kind words to them. Thank you for choosing us, and we hope to welcome you back to Huatulco for another unforgettable experience! Warm regards, Lamby Tours Huatulco
via Tripadvisor
Great “Gus” tour guide from Lamby Tours, turtle release.
Gus from Lamby Tours was our private tour guide (group of 4 total). The drive is long 1.5 hours each way from the cruise terminal, but WELL worth it! The turtle sanctuary assists gathering the eggs after they are laid & safeguarding them until hatched. We were each able to release approximately 12 turtles that had hatched just several hours beforehand! An incredible event I will never forget
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your wonderful review! We are thrilled to hear that the Turtle Release experience was so memorable for you. Watching baby sea turtles begin their journey to the ocean is truly a special and unforgettable moment, and we're delighted that you were able to be part of this important conservation effort. Thank you for highlighting the work of the turtle sanctuary and for sharing your experience with future travelers. We're also happy to know that the journey was worth it and that your group enjoyed this unique adventure. We appreciate your kind words and hope to welcome you back to Huatulco for more incredible experiences in the future! Warm regards, Lamby Tours Huatulco
via Tripadvisor
Wonderful
To release the day old turtles was humbling. The passion for these turtles is obvious, to dedicate their lives to this commitment is awesome.
Response from the operator: Thank you for your kind words! We're so glad you enjoyed the turtle release experience. It truly is a special and humbling moment, and we're happy that the dedication and passion behind this conservation effort made such an impact on you. Thank you for being part of it! Warm regards, Lamby Tours Huatulco
via Viator
Release the turtles!
Gustavo, our guide, was absolutely amazing. He was fluent in English, entertaining, and shared lots of local info with us. He also clearly defined for us what would happen at each point of the trip and went with us to act as interpreter for the turtle release. The turtles were the highlight IMO! Gustavo timed the trip so we would have time to eat and enjoy the beach in Escondido before the bioluminescence experience. The lagoon was a bit disappointing as we had to swim under a tent to see the effect, but that is a part of the natural phenomenon. There were some very loud, unruly kids on the same boat, which lessened the experience. The only real negative was that we weren't told upon booking about the construction on Highway 200, or that we would be traveling over it in the dark, which was terrifying. The construction schedule required a stop of 45 minutes near the top, which meant we weren't back in Huatulco until well after midnight. It would have been nice to have some warning ahead of time.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much for taking the time to share your detailed experience. We’re delighted to hear that Gustavo took great care of you — he truly enjoys sharing local knowledge and ensuring everyone feels informed and comfortable throughout the tour. We’re glad the turtle release was a memorable highlight and that you had time to enjoy Puerto Escondido before the bioluminescence activity. We also appreciate your honesty regarding the lagoon and the behavior of other passengers. While some parts of the natural phenomenon vary, and group dynamics can differ, your feedback helps us continue improving the experience for all guests. Regarding the construction on Highway 200, we sincerely apologize for not informing you ahead of time. The roadwork schedule has been changing unexpectedly, but you’re absolutely right — guests should be notified of the possibility of delays, especially during nighttime travel. Thank you for bringing this to our attention; we will make sure to communicate this clearly to future travelers. We truly appreciate your trust in joining our tour and hope to welcome you back for an even smoother and unforgettable experience in the future.
via Tripadvisor
Free turtles and bioluminiscense
If you stay in Huatulco, this full day tour is perfect for an experience in nature. The best was setting free more than 50+ baby turtles from the santuary and watching them going to the sea. The road is long, expect a bit of traffic and a rural sightseeing, be ready to get wet and enjoy the natural landscape. We were fortunate to see a crocodile!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your experience! We’re so happy to know you enjoyed this beautiful day surrounded by nature and had the chance to release baby turtles — such a magical moment! Your kind words inspire us to keep creating meaningful and unforgettable experiences in Huatulco. We hope to welcome you back for another adventure soon! Lamby Tours Huatulco.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 9 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 19
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 79
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Huatulco.
How much does From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence cost?
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Prices start at $120 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Huatulco usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence take?
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Plan for about 9 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Huatulco is not rushed.
Is From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 79 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.7/5 across 53 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Huatulco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 9-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence?
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Around 19 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Huatulco can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Huatulco and add a light layer if any part of the 9-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does From Huatulco: Turtle Release & Bioluminescence start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Huatulco within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Huatulco?
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On Outty we rank every Huatulco experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Huatulco Ocean Eco Adventures, Tour to Copalitilla Magical Waterfalls from Huatulco with admission included, Huatulco: Waterfalls, Zipline & Oaxacan Food. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Huatulco?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Huatulco?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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