Nestled by the pristine seaside on the enchanting west coast of Réunion lies the magnificent Kélonia site. More than just an ordinary centre, Kélonia serves as a sanctuary for sea turtles and a hub for environmental education. The site also houses a state-of-the-art research and treatment centre solely dedicated to protecting and preserving these endangered species.
Kélonia's primary objective is to provide a haven for turtles injured or fallen sick. The turtles receive expert medical care and attention; every effort is made to bring them back to health. Once they recover, they are released back into the ocean, where they can thrive in their natural habitat.
The newly opened sea turtle observatory is a must-visit destination if you want to explore the world of sea turtles. The observatory features a fascinating three-part museum trail that offers visitors a detailed look into the different aspects of these fascinating marine creatures.
The Discovery area is the first stop on the museum trail, where you can witness the various environments that sea turtles inhabit during their biological cycle. You can also observe several species of sea turtles in a large open-air pool, which will surely be a highlight of your visit.
The Confrontation room is the second stop on the museum trail, where you will find an exhibition that documents the close relationship between human societies and sea turtles in different eras and places. This room is a great place to learn about the history of human interaction with sea turtles and how it has impacted their populations.
Lastly, the Future area is equipped with multimedia and interactive displays that address the issue of preserving these endangered species and their habitats. This area is a great place to learn about the challenges that sea turtles face and the efforts being made to protect them.
Overall, the sea turtle observatory is an excellent destination for anyone interested in learning about these fascinating marine creatures. With its detailed museum trail and interactive displays, you will leave with a greater appreciation for the importance of protecting sea turtles and their habitats.
To end your visit with a scenic view, go up to the top of the observation tower. From there, you will have a lovely view of Kélonia's pools and the Bay of Saint-Leu. Don't forget to stop by the centre's gift shop before leaving, where you can find local craft items for sale.
