Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip
Overview
The original Turtle Discovery Trip is a one-day public outreach programme offered by Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia (TCS). The trip is designed to give the general public an introduction to the different turtles found in Malaysia, the threats that these turtles face, and what can be done to help save them.
Our first Turtle Discovery Trip was offered to the public in 2011. We wanted to share our knowledge on turtles with our guests, with hopes to spread our conservation message to as many people as possible.
Now, we’re offering a new Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip to add more value to our existing trip. In addition to learning about turtles, you will also learn about our fireflies, i.e. their ecological roles, life cycle, etc. For example, did you know that fireflies are actually beetles, not flies? Did you know that some fireflies synchronise their flashing, and some don’t? Did you know that some female fireflies consume the males after mating?
Guided Tours
Our tours are guided by interns and volunteers who are rigorously trained to ensure that you get the most out of the trips. You have questions about turtles? Bring ’em on!
Fireflies Tour
“Tak kenal, maka tak cinta.”
How do you love something you don’t know about? Join us on a magical fireflies tour with our friendly “firefly whisperer.”
A Visit to the Gallery
A visit to Kg. Pasir Gajah, Kemaman is not complete until you have visited the Turtle Gallery, which is converted from a store room. The gallery now houses numerous turtle shells, bones and wet specimens. A child once claimed this as a “fossil house!”
Trip Photos
Schedule
At the moment, we are happy to host a Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip at your convenience, so please let us know your preferred dates (EXCEPT on Mondays).
Our Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trips are full-day, self-drive trips that begin at 2:00 pm, and end at approximately 9:30 pm. Our trips are limited to a maximum of 4 vehicles (roughly 15 - 20 pax) or one bus (approximately 40 pax). Your participation will be confirmed after we have received your payment.
Itinerary
We are offering two Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip itineraries, as follows:
Time | Activity |
|---|---|
2:00pm | Arrive at the TCS River Terrapin Conservation Centre. Briefing on the critically endangered river terrapins and the conservation project carried out in the local community. Hands-on activities e.g. clean terrapin ponds, weeding, etc. (optional) |
4:15pm | Refreshments |
4:45pm | Proceed to the riverbank for terrapin release. Terrapin adoption is optional |
5:15pm | Proceed to Cherating for dinner |
6:00pm | Dinner |
7:30pm | Briefing on fireflies |
8:00pm | Fireflies-watching tour in the Cherating River |
9:00pm | Return from the river. Programme ends |
Time | Activity |
|---|---|
2:00pm | Arrive at the TCS River Terrapin Conservation Centre. Briefing on the critically endangered river terrapins and the conservation project carried out in the local community. Hands-on activities e.g. clean terrapin ponds, weeding, etc. (optional). Refreshments. |
4:15pm | Proceed to sea turtle hatchery |
5:00pm | Arrive at sea turtle hatchery. Introduction to the sea turtle conservation effort. Observe hatchling emergence |
6:30pm | Release sea turtle hatchlings into the sea |
7:00pm | Dinner |
7:30pm | Briefing on fireflies |
8:00pm | Fireflies-watching tour in the Cherating River |
9:00pm | Return from the river. Programme ends |
Each trip includes:
- A guided tour at each destination by our trained guides
- Photo opportunities
- Refreshments, Dinner
- Release of a river terrapin or a sea turtle hatchling
- Fireflies watching tour in the Cherating River
- A token donation to TCS
Each trip excludes:
- Accommodation in Cherating/ Kemaman
- Transportation to Cherating/ Kemaman
Note: While care is taken to ensure a smooth programme, we may need to make some changes to the itinerary if the weather is not favourable.
Rates
Group Size // Rates
2 – 4 pax // RM325 per pax
5 – 9 pax // RM235 per pax
10 and more // RM220 per pax
Add-ons (optional)
- Terrapin adoption - RM35/terrapin
- Release sea turtles - RM35/pax (June to September only)
FAQ
Testimonials
It is heartening to see efforts made by the Turtle Conservation Society of Malaysia to promote awareness on the plight of turtles. Enlightening, educational and fun. A great way to spend the weekend with family or friends!
One of the best “Cuti-Cuti Malaysia” trips I’ve done! I have learned so much about turtles and terrapins in just a weekend. Wonderful and amazing excursion! Highly recommended to locals and tourists alike!
Terima kasih for such an amazing experience! We are leaving this expecience with the knowledge on how and why we take care of these turtles. With much love and gratitude to your important work.
This field trip exceeded my expectations on many levels. In fact, it likely set a new standard by which field trips should be measured.
Book Trip
If you would like to join our Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip, please register your interest by filling up the following form. We will send you an email shortly to confirm the availability of your preferred date.