Kelonia
Réunion
Kélonia is a unique public aquarium and observatory located in Saint-Leu, Réunion, specializing in marine turtles. Established on the site of a former turtle ranch, it serves as a center for research, education, and conservation of sea turtles in the Indian Ocean. The facility features 1,500 cubic meters of seawater basins, scientific and educational spaces, and outdoor areas totaling 1,500 square meters. Kélonia conducts various research programs including migratory studies, population monitoring, and genetic analysis, often collaborating with international teams. It also operates a turtle clinic that rehabilitates injured turtles for release back into the wild. Beyond its scientific role, Kélonia educates visitors about the ecological importance of marine turtles and the historical human uses of turtle shells, which persisted until the 20th century. The center includes a boutique offering local crafts and eco-friendly products supporting conservation efforts. As a property of the Réunion region and managed by Réunion des Musées Régionaux, Kélonia is a vital hub for marine biodiversity awareness and protection.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit Kélonia during weekdays to avoid weekend crowds. Booking guided tours or educational workshops in advance is recommended, especially for school groups. The center offers discounts for students and groups, and purchasing tickets online can save waiting time. Early morning visits are ideal to observe active turtles and participate in feeding sessions. Don't miss the turtle clinic to see rehabilitation efforts firsthand. Check the official website for updated opening hours and special events.
Interesting facts
- •Kélonia is located on the west coast of Réunion Island, near Saint-Leu, in the Indian Ocean.
- •The observatory manages a turtle clinic that rehabilitates injured and sick marine turtles before releasing them back into the ocean.
- •The original Ferme Corail used a ranching method where juvenile turtles were raised for commercial purposes before turtle farming was banned.
- •Kélonia participates in international research programs, including migratory tracking and genetic studies of marine turtles.
- •The site includes a boutique selling local crafts and eco-friendly products that support turtle conservation efforts.
History
The site of Kélonia was originally occupied by a lime kiln from 1940 until 1960, producing lime from coral for construction and agriculture.
In 1969, coral harvesting was banned, leading to the closure of the lime works.
In 1977, the site became the Ferme Corail, an aquaculture facility that raised marine turtles using a ranching method for commercial purposes.
However, growing international and local conservation laws, including the 1981 CITES listing of marine turtles, progressively restricted turtle farming.
The Réunion region took ownership in 1989, shifting the focus from commercial exploitation to conservation and research.
This transition culminated in the establishment of Kélonia as an observatory and educational center dedicated to marine turtle protection, research, and rehabilitation.
Place Guide
Seawater Basins
Extensive basins totaling 1,500 cubic meters of seawater where various species of marine turtles are housed and observed in conditions mimicking their natural habitat.
Turtle Clinic
A specialized rehabilitation center where injured or sick marine turtles receive medical care with the goal of releasing them back into the wild once recovered.
Educational and Scientific Facilities
Spaces dedicated to guided visits, workshops, and scientific research, facilitating public awareness and support for marine turtle conservation.
Boutique and Exhibition Area
Offers a selection of local artisan crafts and eco-citizen products themed around marine turtles, supporting conservation funding and regional culture.
Contact
Phone: 0262 34 81 10