Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge

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The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, located at the southern tip of Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, is a stunning natural reserve known for its diverse ecosystems, hidden beaches, and tropical rainforest trails. It’s one of the best places in Costa Rica to experience untouched nature, spot wildlife, and enjoy peaceful coastal scenery far from the crowds.

What to See & Do

  • Hiking Trails 🚶: Explore coastal jungle paths 🌳 leading to secluded beaches 🏖️ and viewpoints 🖼️. 👣
  • Wildlife Watching 🐒: Spot monkeys 🙉, sloths 🦥, toucans 🦜, and colorful frogs 🐸. 🐾
  • Beach Time 🌊: Swim 🏊 or relax 😌 at Playa Manzanillo’s clear 💧, calm waters ✨. 🏝️
  • Snorkeling 🤿: Discover coral reefs 🐠 and tropical marine life 🐡 near the shoreline 🐚. 🐟
  • Birdwatching 🐦: Observe exotic species 🦅 in the mangrove forests 🌿 and canopy 🌲. 🔭

How to Get There

  • From Puerto Viejo 🏄: 25-minute drive 🚗 or 40-minute bicycle ride 🚴 along Route 256 🛣️. ⏱️
  • From San José 🇨🇷: Around 5 hours ⏳ by car 🚘 via Route 32 🛣️ and Route 36 🗺️. ✅
  • Local Access 🚌: Public buses 🚍 run regularly 🔁 between Puerto Viejo 🏘️ and Manzanillo 📍. 🗺️
  • Parking 🅿️: Free 🆓 parking available ✅ near the main beach entrance 🏖️. 🚗

Travel Tips

  • Bring water 💧, insect repellent 🦟, and sturdy shoes 👟 for hiking 🚶. 🥾
  • Visit early morning 🌅 for the best chance ✨ to spot wildlife 🐒. ⏰
  • Carry cash 💵 — some local guides 🧑‍🤝‍🧑 and cafes ☕ may not accept cards 💳. 💰
  • Always stay ⚠️ on marked trails 👣 to protect sensitive ecosystems 💚. 🌳
  • Respect local communities 🙏 and support eco-friendly tours 🤝. 🌱

Suggested Itinerary

  • Day Plan ☀️: 7:30 AM – Arrive 📍 at Manzanillo village 🏘️ and start hiking 🚶 into the refuge 🌳. 👣
  • 9:30 AM – Visit hidden beaches 🏝️ and take photos 📸 of the coastal views 🖼️. 🌊
  • 11:30 AM – Swim 🏊 at Playa Manzanillo 🏖️ or snorkel 🤿 near the reef 🐠. 💧
  • 1:00 PM – Lunch 🍽️ at a local restaurant 🌮 in Manzanillo village 😋. 🇨🇷
  • 3:00 PM – Relax 😌 or visit the Gandoca Lagoon 🏞️ area nearby 🗺️. 🛶
  • 5:00 PM – Watch the sunset 🌅 before returning 🚌 to Puerto Viejo 🏘️. 🧡

Opening Hours & Entry

Open:

Daily: 6:00 AM – 5:00 PM

Entry Fee:

Free (donations encouraged for conservation)

Best Time to Visit:

February–April or September–October for dry weather and easier hiking conditions.

Location

📌 Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, Limón Province, Costa Rica

👉 View on Google Maps

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