Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, Mexico
Huatulco, Mexico

Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence

Outty Ranking 72 4.8 · 44 traveler reviews10 hoursFrom $80
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Outty Ranking

72/100

Strongly Recommended. Our proprietary evaluation. How we score

Traveler rating

4.8/5

Based on 44 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 $80 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 44 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 (44)
Duration
10 hours
From
$80 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, 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 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

    1. 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

    2. 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

    3. 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

    4. 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

    5. 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

    Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 2Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 3Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 4Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 5Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 6Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence in Huatulco, photo 7

    What travelers are saying

    Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 44 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.

    The guide

    6 mentions

    Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Knowledge and storytelling

    4 mentions

    Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.

    Food and drink

    4 mentions

    The tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.

    Value for money

    2 mentions

    Travelers feel they got more than they paid for.

    Good for families

    2 mentions

    Reviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.

    Small groups

    2 mentions

    The group size is repeatedly described as intimate rather than packed.

    Traveler reviews

    44 verified traveler reviews for Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.

    5 star
    40
    4 star
    1
    3 star
    1
    2 star
    0
    1 star
    2
    Sort
    Odyssey14484211807 · October 2026

    Terrible experience

    So disappointed in this tour, it was very unorganized, first they sent Gabriel, the guide from 3 hours away to pick us up which makes no sense when apparently they have local ones, so he was an hour late to pick us up and we missed the turtle release experience as it was already dark and we could we barely see the turtles heading to the ocean and we got a rushed and rambling explanation about the conservation of the turtles, we were the only two people with him and saw other vans there with local guides with also 1 or 2 people why not put us all together. Second I paid 166 dollars for this tour which was supposed to include the turtle release experience and the bioluminescence but we ended up having to pay another 500 pesos for the turtles and 600 pesos for the bioluminescence. Gabriel did a great job once he got to us and but overall I would not recommend this tour. Save your money.

    via Tripadvisor

    KatherineTB · November 2024

    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

    Safari10310324882 · August 2024

    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

    Katherine_B · April 2024

    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

    Sherri_K · April 2024

    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

    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
    $80 to $1,469
    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 runs

    Why this scores 72

    The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.

    Traveler sentiment (30% weight)84
    Review evidence (18% weight)72
    Booking momentum (14% weight)65
    Value for money (12% weight)100
    Listing quality (10% weight)85
    Local standing (8% weight)58
    Booking flexibility (8% weight)0

    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?

    +

    Prices start at $80 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.8/5 across 44 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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 Tour to Copalitilla Magical Waterfalls from Huatulco with admission included, Huatulco Ocean Eco Adventures, Huatulco: Waterfalls & 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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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?

    +

    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.

    What is included in Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence?

    +

    Included: Liability insurance; In-vehicle air conditioning; and Certified Guide. Not included: Gratuities; Dinner; Entrance fees; and Entrance fees. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.

    Does Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence include hotel pickup?

    +

    Yes, pickup is offered for every traveler from 12 listed pickup locations in and around Huatulco. Be ready about 20 minutes before the start time. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.

    What languages is Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence offered in?

    +

    It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.

    Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence?

    +

    Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.

    Is Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence wheelchair or stroller accessible?

    +

    The operator notes: Specialized infant seats are available. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.

    What happens to Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence if the weather is bad?

    +

    This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.

    What do travelers say about Full Day Tour Turtle Release and Bioluminescence?

    +

    Across 44 reviews averaging 4.8 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling, food and drink. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.

    Ready to lock in your spot?

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