On the remote Pacific coast of Oaxaca, La Escobilla Sanctuary protects one of the world's largest olive ridley arribada beaches, where tens of thousands of females storm ashore in synchronised nesting waves between August and November. Guided night patrols with CONANP rangers offer front-row views of this extraordinary mass-nesting spectacle under strict red-light rules. The site sits hours from Puerto Escondido along rough coastal roads, rewarding patient expedition travellers.
On the remote Pacific coast of Oaxaca, La Escobilla Sanctuary protects one of the world's largest olive ridley arribada beaches, where tens of thousands of females storm ashore in synchronised nesting waves between August and November. Guided night patrols with CONANP rangers offer front-row views of this extraordinary mass-nesting spectacle under strict red-light rules. The site sits hours from Puerto Escondido along rough coastal roads, rewarding patient expedition travellers.
Up to 98% sighting chance in La Escobilla Beach (Oaxaca, Mexico). Best months: August, September, October.
August through November is the main window, with September and October delivering the densest arribada events and up to 98% sighting probability on ranger-led night patrols.
An arribada is a synchronised mass nesting event where thousands of olive ridley turtles haul ashore over several nights. La Escobilla ranks among the largest arribada sites on Earth.
Guided night patrol packages from Puerto Escondido typically run 2,500 to 4,800 MXN per person (2026 prices), including transport, ranger fees, and accommodation near the sanctuary.
The sanctuary lies about four hours south of Puerto Escondido along rough coastal roads. Most visitors book multi-day packages with local operators rather than driving independently.
Yes. CONANP rangers enforce red-light-only rules and strict group sizes. White light and flash photography are prohibited to protect nesting females and hatchlings.
