TURTLE & FIREFLIES DISCOVERY TRIP
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?
Our Nature Discovery Trips are packed with more hands-on activities and experiences, if you’re interested in a more in-depth programme.
P/S: Optional: Junior Scientist programme for children.
Itinerary A
2:00 pm: Meet and greet at Kg. Pasir Gajah. Introduction to turtles and the community-based terrapin conservation project. Guided tour at the Conservation Centre.
4:15 pm: Refreshments.
4:45 pm: Proceed to the river bank for terrapin release (optional, each terrapin adoption is RM35).
5:15 pm: Proceed to Cherating for dinner.
6:00 pm: Dinner.
7:30 pm: Briefing on fireflies.
8:00 pm: Fireflies-watching tour in the Cherating River.
9:00 pm: Return from the river.
9:15 pm: Return to hotel.
Itinerary B
2:00 pm: Meet and greet at Kg. Pasir Gajah. Introduction to turtles and the community-based terrapin conservation project. Guided tour at the Conservation Centre. Refreshments.
4:15 pm: Proceed to sea turtle hatchery.
5:00 pm: Arrive at sea turtle hatchery. Introduction to the sea turtle conservation effort. Observe hatchling emergence.
6:30 pm: Release sea turtle hatchlings into the sea.
7:00 pm: Dinner.
7:30 pm: Briefing on fireflies.
8:00 pm: Fireflies-watching tour in the Cherating River.
9:00 pm: Return from the river.
9:15 pm: Return to hotel.
Each trip includes:
- A guided tour at each destination by our trained guides
- Photo opportunities
- Refreshments, Dinner
- Release of sea turtle hatchlings (Itinerary B only)
- 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.
Disclaimer: TCS reserves the rights to modify the itineraries where we deem necessary.
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.
Note: Minimum number of participants in a regular Turtle & Fireflies Discovery Trip is 10 pax.
RM 150 per pax
Itinerary B:
RM 200 per pax
Symbolically adopt a terrapin:
RM35 per terrapin
1. I have made a booking, when should I pay up?
To secure your seats, please make payment at least two weeks before your trip. This will allow us sufficient time to book seats for the fireflies tour as well as to order refreshments, and secure a table for dinner. If the minimum number of participants is not achieved, the trip will be canceled ONE WEEK before the trip.
2. I want to be respectful to the local villagers, how should I dress? What should I pack for the trip?
It is perfectly fine to wear a T-shirt and shorts or three-quarter pants or a skirt. Wear a cap or a hat. You may want to bring your sunblock. Sandals are great. Bring your own water bottle. Bring your own medications and insect repellent if you wish, but you will not be allowed to use it during the fireflies watching trip.
3. My parents are in their 70s and I have a three-year-old toddler. Is it safe for them to join the trip?
This trip involves going up some stairs and getting into a boat. The Turtle Sanctuary in Cherating is not wheelchair-friendly. If your parents are able to get into the boat unassisted, they should be fine. You are expected to wear your baby, and toddlers are to be held near their parents during the boat ride.
4. I have paid up but due to an emergency at home, we are unable to join the trip this coming weekend! Could we bring forward our trip and come again another weekend?
If we have already made reservations on your behalf, those would have to be forfeited. So, if you can’t make it to the trip, please let us know AS SOON AS POSSIBLE. Yes, you may join us on another weekend in the same year.
5. I have some specific questions about the programme.
Sure! We are happy to answer any questions you may have. Email us and we will get back to you shortly.
– Adeno Ong
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!
– Dora Khoo
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.
– Priti, Robin and Davin
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!
– Lee Sze Ching