Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence
Traveler rating
4.8/5
Based on 43 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence worth booking?
Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence is a 10-hour experience in Huatulco, Mexico, from $73 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 4.8/5 rating across 43 reviews. This booking is non-refundable, so pick your date carefully. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 4.8/5 (43)
- Duration
- 10 hours
- From
- $73 per person
We give you the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience in the Laguna de Manialtepec, observing the wonderful phenomenon of Bioluminescence, which generates the lagoon to be illuminated with flashes of light, thi
What you get
About this experience
We give you the opportunity to live an unforgettable experience in the Laguna de Manialtepec, observing the wonderful phenomenon of Bioluminescence, which generates the lagoon to be illuminated with flashes of light, this event can only be found in three places in Mexico and the most beautiful is in Oaxaca. In addition to participating and experiencing the release of turtles on a beach considered as a turtle sanctuary, where millions of species arrive each year, always providing the best quality, service and satisfaction to all our clients. It is important to note that the best days to make the experience are when there is less moonlight, so we recommend checking the lunar calendar of the day you would like to make it. In case you want to take the tour on days with lots of light, in the lagoon houseboats are installed that are covered to observe the Bioluminescence from the inside, we recommend to bring swimsuit.
What's included
Included
- Liability insurance
- In-vehicle air conditioning
- Certified Guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Dinner
- Entrance fees
- Entrance fees
What you'll see and do
Campamento Tortuguero Palmarito
We will pick you up in the lobby of your hotel to go to the first stop which is the "Santuario La Escobilla"
120 minutes here
Campamento Tortuguero Palmarito
We will arrive at Escobilla beach, which is cataloged by CONANP as a turtle sanctuary; In this wonderful place we will have the opportunity to carry out the turtle release activity, taking into account all the protocols and measures necessary to avoid harming the species; Before releasing them, we will give them a name and wish them good luck on their journey across the ocean, hoping that one day they will return.
60 minutes here · Admission not included
Puerto Escondido
As a second stop we will arrive at Zicatela Beach in Puerto Escondido, which is one of the beaches known worldwide for its huge waves and for hosting international surfing tournaments. On this beach we can enjoy the beautiful sunset and tour the area; our team will help you take a nice picture to remember the experience.
120 minutes here
Laguna Manialtepec
As a last stop, we will visit the Manialtepec lagoon, where we will witness the natural phenomenon of bioluminescence. This show is produced thanks to a biochemical process by which certain microorganisms emit light when in contact with the movement of water. The lagoon houses a large concentration of these organisms, which allows the water to magically light up by shaking it. We recommend wearing a swimsuit to enjoy this experience in a unique way. The tour will take place on board a small boat, and those who wish to swim can activate bioluminescence and marvel at this natural phenomenon. At the end of the day, the group will be able to decide if they want to stop for dinner or snack before starting their return to Huatulco.
180 minutes here · Admission not included
Huatulco
The return to the lodging in Huatulco will be made
120 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Hotel pickup
Pickup is included for all travelers. Pickup begins about 20 minutes before departure.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- All sales are final. No refund is available for cancellations.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 14 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Ocean Travel
Know before you go
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 43 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
4 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Value for money
2 mentionsTravelers feel they got more than they paid for.
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
43 verified traveler reviews for Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Best tour guide and turtle release experience
I booked this tour through Viator and left my review there, but am also going to share it here since I'm still thinking about it months after it's happened: This tour was amazing. We were picked up early and had a small family join us so it was intimate. Because the tour was so long we were given an option of stopping for lunch or dinner and he took us to a beautiful beach with restaurants on the way. Along the way our guide also gave us tons of interesting information about the area and history. Plus we stopped for a chocolate tasting and had an option for tequila tasting :) The turtle release was magical, with each of us having a baby turtle in a bowl to release. The bioluminescence experience was amazing. Even on a bright/ full moon night we were able to see the sparkles due to big tent-like structures in the water. You had to take a 20min boat ride and swim in the water to get in the tent but very worth it and the water was very comfortable. Overall amazing.
Response from the operator: Thank you very much Karen, it was a pleasure for us to provide you with our services, our greatest acomplishment is bring to our clientes unforgibable experiences, all our teamn are gonna be waiting for you in your next visit 🐢☀️🌊
via Tripadvisor
Huatulco Turtle Experience
Long great trip. Made a pit stop and learned a little about the chocolate here is Huatulco. Liberating the turtles was a great experience for my little ones. Cuatemoc Flores was great, absolutely a pleasure learn8ng about Huatulco.
Response from the operator: 🐢: Thank you very much for your kind words, we are pleased to know that our colleague was good company during your stay in Huatulco, we hope to see you soon to provide you with excellent service🌊☀️🌊☀️
via Tripadvisor
Top recommended tour from Huatulco
This tour was amazing. We were picked up early and had a small family join us so it was intimate. Because the tour was so long we were given an option of stopping for lunch or dinner and he took us to a beautiful beach with restaurants on the way. Along the way our guide also gave us tons of interesting information about the area and history. Plus we stopped for a chocolate tasting and had an option for tequila tasting :) The turtle release was magical, with each of us having a baby turtle in a bowl to release. The bioluminescence experience was amazing. Even on a bright/ full moon night we were able to see the sparkles due to big tent-like structures in the water. You had to take a 20min boat ride and swim in the water to get in the tent but very worth it and the water was very comfortable. Overall amazing.
Response from the operator: We are delighted to hear that your experience with us was memorable. Your choice and the trust you have placed in us are of great importance to us and motivate us to continue providing exceptional service. Thank you for allowing us to be part of your journey. 🐢
via Viator
Releasing turtles and swimming with diamonds
Alejandro was very personable and accommodating. Chocolate tasting was a surprise! The baby turtles were adorable. Swimming at night is always a treat.
Response from the operator: We are pleased to know that our team has once again achieved our goal: to make each of our travelers' experiences unique. We hope to see you very soon, and thank you for trusting us. 🐢
via Viator
Two Magical Experiences in One Day
We spent a wonderful day with Eduardo and Gabriel, learning about the local customs, communities, sea turtles and the phenomenon of the bioluminescent plankton. We were lucky to have an evening with no moon, so we were able to experience the plankton without the tents. We could scoop the water and watch twinkling stars fall through our fingers and up our arms. It was pretty cool. Equally amazing were the stars in the sky. Absolutely beautiful. And, what is cuter than a baby sea turtle? Nothing! Long drive but if you have a guide as knowledgeable and entertaining as Eduardo, the time flies. We highly recommend this experience.
Response from the operator: We are delighted to hear that you had a very rewarding experience. We are pleased to have once again created unforgettable moments. Thank you for trusting us and choosing us. 🐢
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 10 hours
- Free cancellation
- Non-refundable
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $73 to $1469
- Hotel pickup
- Included for all travelers
- Booked in 30 days
- 15
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Ocean Travel, who run 14 experiences we rank across 2 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 60.3.
See everything Ocean Travel runsWhy this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Huatulco.
How much does Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence cost?
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Prices start at $73 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 Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence take?
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Plan for about 10 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 Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 43 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable culture & history in Huatulco, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence?
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No. This experience is sold on a non-refundable basis, so only book a date you are confident about. Similar experiences in the city do offer free cancellation if flexibility matters more than price.
Is Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 10-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence?
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Around 15 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 10-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Full Day Tour Turtle Release and 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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