Private Tour
Turtle Release and Mangroves Cruise
Overview
Available languages
Mobile ticket
Embark on a captivating journey to the Barra de Santiago! This protected area is renowned for its extensive mangrove forests, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural heritage. Ideal for nature enthusiasts, photographers, and adventure seekers, this tour offers a unique opportunity to explore one of Central America's most biodiverse ecosystems.
✔ Turtle Release Program: Take part in an unforgettable experience by joining a local women’s association in their turtle conservation project. You’ll have the opportunity to release baby turtles into the wild, contributing to the preservation of endangered species.
✔ Guided Boat Tour: Cruise through the mangrove channels where you will have the chance to spot crocodiles numerous bird species. Your guide will share fascinating insights about this unique ecosystem.
✔ Visit to El Escuco Waterfall: Enjoy a short 15-minute walk to the beautiful El Escuco waterfall, where you can take in the lush surroundings and cool off in the refreshing waters.
Additional Info
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Barra de Santiago
We will participate in a turtle release alongside an association working to preserve the four species of nesting turtles along the Salvadoran coast. You will learn about the conservation efforts and the specific characteristics of each species, then assist the newborns in making their way to the ocean!
Barra de Santiago
We will embark on a boat ride through the serene mangroves of Barra de Santiago, where you'll have the chance to spot crocodiles, seabirds, and iguanas in their natural habitat. This unforgettable journey will take you through a protected reserve, offering a rare glimpse into one of El Salvador's most pristine ecosystems.
What‘s Included
Private transportation
Donation for the turtle release association
Entrance to the mangroves
Entrance to the waterfall
Air-conditioned vehicle
Guided Boat tour
Guide
Lunch
Pickup points
Select a pickup point
Options
Turtle Release and Mangroves Cruise
Pickup included
Reviews
6 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Don't miss this tour!
Sharon K,,Jan 15, 2026
- Review from Viator
5.00This was a private tour with just my husband and I. Our driver, Samuel was very careful and safe. Our tour guide, Elisa, spoke great English and explained everything well. Both Samuel and Elisa were a pleasure to be with all day long. The highlights were the turtle release and the mangrove cruise. The walk to the waterfall was about 15 minutes on a rocky path. I highly recommend this Expedition Maya and it's employees!
Authentic view of El Salvador
torchh2022,,Dec 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing experience on the Nature Adventure in the Mangroves of Barra de Santiago! Ellisa was our guide, and she was absolutely wonderful from start to finish. She took us through the mangroves, which were beautiful and peaceful, and we were lucky enough to see crocodiles and many different bird species along the way. One of the most meaningful parts of the tour was the turtle release. It was such an important and unforgettable experience, and something truly special that sets this tour apart from others. You can really see the care and passion Ellisa has for the environment and conservation. We also visited a waterfall, which was a perfect way to end the day. Everything about the tour was well organized and enjoyable. Ellisa was incredibly kind, helpful, and attentive. She helped us take pictures and made sure we had everything we needed throughout the day. I genuinely hope her company continues to grow because she offers something unique and impactful. For anyone worried about transportation, there’s nothing to worry about at all. The van was very comfortable and clean, and our driver Mauricio did an excellent job. He was safe, professional, and friendly. I highly recommend this tour. If you’re looking for an authentic experience then this is the one.
Amazing!
lisadS86FD,,Jun 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We had an amazing experience. Our guide, Aleesa, and driver were of the highest quality. Very detail oriented. Highly recommend.
Best Life Moment
CieraDrake,,Jun 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Every once in a while we have an experience that I didn’t really think was possible and this was one of those times! Helping release baby sea turtles back into the ocean was a top 10 life moment for me. Plus, I always love an opportunity to work with a women’s organization. Then, we took a boat ride with a local through the mangroves to check out the local crocodiles, birds and crabs. After, we had lunch at a really cool spot on the ocean and visited a beautiful waterfall. Elisa was amazing. One of the best guides I’ve had. She’s accommodating, informative, warm, never rushed us, and I appreciated that everywhere we went, she picked up trash! I would recommend, this was a highlight, and the best wildlife of our El Salvador trip.
Wildlife experiences.
noam cz,,May 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Great time spent in the mangroves of Barra de Santiago! The place is beautiful, super peaceful, and we had the chance to observe quite a few crocodiles during the boat ride. It was impressive to see them so closely in their environment. A beautiful adventure in nature, as I love them.
Unforgettable experience
BlackSchwann,,Apr 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Immersion in the mangroves amid crocodiles in a motorboat, surrounded by tropical birds, change of scenery guaranteed! The corner is not crowded, you feel adventurous:) Then head to the sandy beaches, to land and save the turtles and talk with the association: this day is memorable. Thank you for this amazing experience!!
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Operated by Expédition Maya