Sámara, on the Guanacaste coast of Costa Rica, transforms during sea turtle nesting season into a frontline for an ancient ritual between earth and ocean. Each night, guided tours escort visitors along the stretch of sand where leatherbacks and olive ridleys arrive, determined and steady, to lay their eggs. This isn’t an easy stroll; the beach is roughly 3 kilometers long with soft sand that tests your footing and the occasional incline where dunes guard the shore, demanding awareness with every step.

As you walk, the Pacific tides lap insistently, sometimes pulling you closer with a soft but persistent call. The forest behind the shore holds its breath, shadows thick and alive, the scent of salt and wet foliage grounding you in the moment. Expect the hike from the village edge to nesting spots to take about 40 minutes one-way. Elevation gain is minimal but uneven terrain—sand, roots, and occasional rocks—requires solid, closed-toe shoes.

Tours begin after sunset and are led by trained local guides whose patience matches that of the turtles. They know when to pause, when to hush, and how to protect this delicate cycle. Visitors observe quietly, cameras off or on red light mode, to avoid startling the sea turtles fiercely faithful to their beach. The atmosphere is both reverent and charged, as nature unfolds without human hurry.

Practical preparation is key. Hydration is essential—the tropical night can be surprisingly warm and humid. A flashlight with a red filter helps your eyes adjust without disturbing wildlife. Dress in lightweight, dark clothing and bring insect repellent. Avoid strong scents that might alarm the turtles. Timing matters too — tours typically last two to three hours, with the best viewing window between 8 p.m. and midnight.

Engaging in Sámara’s sea turtle tours offers more than a peek at these majestic creatures; it’s a lesson in patience and respect for a process fiercely itself, ongoing for millions of years. This is an adventure that arms you with knowledge and leaves you with a quiet appreciation for conservation in action.