Turtle conservation program "Save Turtles Run" resumes in Con Dao for the fourth consecutive year.
The Save Turtles Run: A Conservation and Eco-Tourism Initiative in Con Dao
Con Dao, a Vietnamese island off the southern coast, has become a crucial safe haven for sea turtles, thanks in part to the annual Save Turtles Run. This unique event, launched in 2022 by AKYN Hospitality Group and The Secret Con Dao, is more than just a race—it's a commitment to protecting sea turtles and promoting sustainable tourism.
Each year, hundreds of sea turtles return to Con Dao's beaches for breeding, drawn to the island's ideal natural conditions. The Save Turtles Run aims to safeguard these vulnerable creatures, particularly during their nesting and hatchling stages, within Con Dao National Park.
The initiative contributes to sustainable tourism by combining active protection and rescue of turtle nests with public awareness and eco-tourism programs. Measures include the rescue and relocation of thousands of nests, tagging mother turtles, organizing volunteer programs, and educational tours. Tourists are even given the opportunity to participate in meaningful activities such as turtle hatchling releases.
The Save Turtles Run also promotes scientific research, habitat protection, and community involvement. Since 2019, over 13,600 nests have been protected, resulting in nearly 949,000 baby turtles released. This integrated approach exemplifies sustainable tourism by preserving biodiversity while educating visitors and involving them in conservation efforts.
Con Dao, one of Vietnam's most biologically important regions, boasts vast primary forests, unspoilt beaches, and a unique marine ecosystem. The island is taking practical steps to develop its spiritual tourism potential while embracing eco-friendly practices, with the aim of transforming Con Dao into an environmentally responsible destination.
The event not only aids in the survival of endangered sea turtles but also helps position Con Dao as a model of eco-friendly tourism that balances environmental protection and local economic development. The 2025 edition of the race will take place on August 17.
The Secret Con Dao, the host venue for the Save Turtles Run, is situated on Con Dao's central beachfront and blends contemporary design with architectural elements reflecting local heritage. Initiatives such as the Save Turtles Run reflect AKYN's approach, connecting economic development with long-term ecological resilience.
Local authorities and industry stakeholders view community-driven efforts like the Save Turtles Run as practical platforms for advancing responsible travel while reinforcing the protection of Vietnam's most sensitive ecosystems. The event has gained support from corporate sponsors in the travel and design industries, including Filmore, VPBank, Onways, Searefico, Minh Long, Access Race, Traveloka, Lavie, and others.
As Con Dao leads the way in circular tourism, focusing on sustainable practices that minimize waste and maximize resource efficiency, conservation efforts for sea turtles continue to be bolstered by annual activities involving businesses, residents, and tourists. Despite the ecological richness of Con Dao being under threat due to plastic waste, uncoordinated tourism development, and insufficient public understanding of conservation values, initiatives like the Save Turtles Run offer hope for a sustainable future for both the island and its sea turtle inhabitants.
[1] AKYN Hospitality Group. (n.d.). Save Turtles Run. Retrieved from https://akyn.vn/save-turtles-run/ [2] The Secret Con Dao. (n.d.). Save Turtles Run. Retrieved from https://www.thesecretcondao.com/save-turtles-run/ [3] Con Dao National Park. (n.d.). Sea Turtle Conservation. Retrieved from https://www.condao-national-park.com/sea-turtle-conservation/ [4] World Wildlife Fund. (n.d.). Sea Turtles. Retrieved from https://www.worldwildlife.org/species/sea-turtles [5] Vietnam National Administration of Tourism. (n.d.). Con Dao. Retrieved from https://vietnamtourism.gov.vn/destinations/condao/
- The Save Turtles Run, an annual event in Con Dao, isn't just a race; it's a combination of science, environmental-science, and finance as it raises funds for sea turtle conservation and promotes sustainable tourism.
- As part of the Save Turtles Run initiative, participants can engage in lifestyle options such as educational tours, volunteer programs, and even take part in turtle hatchling releases, demonstrating the integration of tourism and environmental concerns.
- The Save Turtles Run, being a traveler's sport, encourages eco-friendly practices and supports climate-change efforts by protecting sea turtle habitats and raising awareness about the importance of sustainability in travel and design industries.
