Plizio Visual Lab

Poilão Green Sea Turtle Nesting Site

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

Animal habitat

Weather…

Poilão Island, located within the João Vieira-Poilão National Park, is the most significant nesting site for the Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas) along the entire West African coast. Every year between August and January, thousands of turtles emerge onto the beaches of this tiny, uninhabited island to lay their eggs. Poilão is regarded as a sacred site by the inhabitants of the neighboring islands, which has historically bolstered its protection as access is traditionally strictly regulated. The absolute darkness and lack of artificial light sources make the island a well-suited sanctuary for these sensitive reptiles. Conservationists and researchers work hand-in-hand with local communities to monitor and protect the nests from natural predators and environmental shifts. The sight of newly hatched turtles making their way to the ocean is a powerful testament to natural resilience. Surrounded by crystal-clear waters and spirited coral reefs, the island remains one of the most pristine locations in the Bijagós Archipelago. Poilão serves as a global model for how indigenous taboos and modern conservation science can collaborate to ensure the survival of an endangered species.

Location: Guinea-Bissau
Nearby: João Vieira Island (8 km)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is Jan, Feb, Apr.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	26	26	26	26	27	27	27	27	27	28	28	27
Rain mm	0	0	2	0	24	170	441	562	370	194	17	0

📋 Practical info

📅

Best season

The nesting season for green sea turtles on Poilão typically runs from August to December. During these months females come ashore at night to lay their eggs.

🌅

Best time of day

Nights are the only time to observe turtles nesting - they come ashore after dark. Early morning hours are also good for discovering tracks in the sand.

📜

Etiquette

Use only red light when observing the turtles, as white light disturbs them. Do not touch the animals, take photos with flash, or approach too closely; keep a respectful distance.

🎒

What to bring

A flashlight with a red filter is essential for nighttime observation. Light clothing and insect repellent are important as mosquitoes are common on the island.

🧭

Getting there

Poilão is a remote island typically reached by boat from Bubaque or other Bijagós islands. Organized tours are the most common way to visit, as a permit is required.

🦌

What to expect

Waiting for turtles requires patience; you may need to sit on the beach for hours before one emerges. Move slowly and quietly - the animals are very sensitive to disturbance.

Geography

Coordinates

10.87000, -15.72000

Facts

Poilão is the premier nesting ground for Green Sea Turtles in West Africa.
The island is uninhabited and revered as a sacred site by the Bijagó.
Up to 25,000 nests are recorded during a peak breeding season.
Access is strictly controlled to minimize human impact on the turtles.
The island is part of the João Vieira and Poilão National Park.
Total darkness is maintained on the beaches to protect nesting females.

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Poilão Island1 km · NExplore →

João Vieira Island8 km · NEExplore →

João Vieira Seabird Colonies19 km · NEExplore →

Orango Island27 km · SEExplore →

Orango Saltwater Hippo Sanctuary29 km · SEExplore →

Canhabaque Island34 km · EExplore →

Orangozinho Island36 km · SEExplore →

Bruce Beach38 km · EExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Poilão Green Sea Turtle Nesting Site (1)

Poilão📍 landmark

Poilão island in the Bijagós archipelago, Guinea-Bissau. Known as a nesting site for sea turtles on its sandy beaches.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is the main nesting season?

From August to December, peaking in October.

Is night access to the beach allowed?

Only with authorized guides and without white light, so as not to startle the turtles.

Is the island inhabited?

No, it is uninhabited and a sacred site for the local population.

How do you get to Poilão?

Only with organized boat tours from Rubane or Bubaque islands.

Is camping allowed on the island?

Camping is usually strictly regulated and requires a permit from the national park.

Poilão Green Sea Turtle Nesting Site: where is it located?

Poilão Green Sea Turtle Nesting Site is located in Guinea-Bissau.

Poilão Green Sea Turtle Nesting Site: when is the best time to visit?