Turtle Watch Rekawa: A Sanctuary for Endangered Turtles
Explore Turtle Watch Rekawa, Sri Lanka’s unique nature preserve dedicated to the conservation of endangered sea turtles and their nesting sites.
Discover the serene beauty of Turtle Watch Rekawa, an essential nature preserve in Sri Lanka dedicated to protecting endangered turtle species. This unique beach sanctuary offers tourists a chance to witness the incredible sights of turtles nesting and hatching in their natural habitat, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts alike.
A brief summary to Turtle Watch Rekawa
- Rekawa Road, Rekawa, 82200, LK
- Visit website
Local tips
- Visit during the nesting season from April to September for the best chance to observe turtles.
- Join a guided night tour to see turtles nesting while minimizing disturbances.
- Bring a good pair of binoculars for birdwatching, as the area is rich in diverse bird species.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for sandy paths when exploring the reserve.
- Respect the wildlife by keeping a safe distance and following the guides' instructions.
Getting There
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Car
If you are driving from Galle, take the A2 highway towards Matara. After approximately 30 km, take the exit for the A14 towards Tangalle. Continue on the A14 for about 25 km until you reach the town of Tangalle. From Tangalle, follow the signs for Rekawa Road. Drive along Rekawa Road for about 5 km until you see signs for Turtle Watch Rekawa on your left. There is parking available at the site.
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Public Transportation
From Galle, you can take a bus to Matara from the main bus station. The bus ride takes about 45 minutes. Once in Matara, transfer to a bus heading to Tangalle. This leg of the journey takes approximately 1 hour. After reaching Tangalle, you will need to take a tuk-tuk or local taxi to Rekawa, which is about a 15-minute ride. Inform the driver to take you to Turtle Watch Rekawa. Make sure to have some cash on hand as you may need to pay for the tuk-tuk ride.
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Taxi or Ride-Hailing Services
If you prefer a more direct and comfortable option, consider hiring a taxi or using a ride-hailing service like PickMe from your location in Southern Province. The fare from Galle to Turtle Watch Rekawa is approximately LKR 3,500 to LKR 4,500, depending on traffic conditions. This option allows for flexibility in timing and can accommodate multiple passengers.
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