Every year, between March and July, thousands of leatherback turtles come to nest on the beaches of western French Guiana. Awala-Yalimapo is one of the most important nesting sites in the world for this endangered species.
The nesting spectacle
The leatherback turtle, the largest sea turtle in the world, can measure up to 2 meters and weigh 500 kg. Watching a female emerge from the ocean to lay her eggs on the beach is a magical and moving moment.
Practical tips
Best time
Nesting mainly occurs between April and June, with a peak in May. Hatchings occur approximately 60 days after nesting.