From the instruments on the rooftop measuring rainwater to the groups of international students conducting field studies in Marine Biology, Coral Restoration, Mangroves and Underground rivers, water is the baseline, water is the life.

​

The work being accomplished by visiting scientists and their students through inquiry, data collection and documentation is disseminated to the environmental department of the Mexican federal government helping to form management plans for protected areas. Our groups are monitoring Mexico’s rich heritage of natural resources.

​

The Mesoamerican Reef, the largest underground river system in the world and the nesting ground for two endangered marine turtles species are primary focuses for studies in the marine and environmental sciences.

 

Tortuga Escondida was built to provide low-cost accomodation for volunteer university students in the environmental sciences traveling to conduct field studies of the unique ecosystems of this region of the Yucatan Peninsula. Fed out of the kitchen of Turtle Bay Cafe and Bakery kitchens, this bed/board facility provides a much needed low cost option to further the necessary research of the diverse, fragile ecosystems in this unique spot on the planet.

 

The center's living space is comprised of three floors with six large dorm style rooms. Each room has three stalled showers and three separate bathrooms. The center also has three smaller rooms with private bathrooms. An industrial kitchen and communal dining area are on the first floor.

 

With the capacity to host over 100 people the rooms can also be made into private spaces for individuals participating in smaller programs.

​

Gallery of Flora and Fauna

​