Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Located in Costa Rica's southeastern Talmanca region is the large Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge, a collection of rainforest and wetland habitat complete with a coral reef. At 23,348 total acres (9,450 ha), this vast refuge begins south of Punta Uva-3 miles south of Puerto Viejo-until it runs into the Sixaola River at the Panamanian boarder. Besides Cahuita, this park is the only other place in the country with a coral reef.
The beach hamlet of Mazanillo, actually located within the park, is home to some of the finest white-sand beaches that the Caribbean side has to offer. From the town, several trails make their way up to Mona Point 6 miles (10 km) away, beyond which lies the only red mangrove swamp on Costa Rica's Atlantic coast. Equally rare are the two palm swamps found inside the park that protect tapirs within the stagnant forest.
The tropical vegetation and remote location draw a plethora of tropical birds to the park-more than 360 species-including the elusive harpy eagle. This large population certainly makes for good birding.
Marine turtles-leatherback, hawksbill, and green sea-frequently nest on the park's southern beaches. Although not a primary nesting site for turtles mainly due to human activity, conservation efforts have been stepped up in recent years by community members to try to increase the local populations.
Much of the KeKöLdi Indian Reserve spills into Gandoca-Manzanillo to safeguard indigenous Bribri and Cabecar tribal land. Indigenous tribes inhabit sections of the park, subsisting off the forest and experimenting with ecotourism.
A wide variety of fauna inhabits the park such as manatees, dolphins, Venus sea fans, and eagles. Snorkeling and scuba diving offers intimate views of tropical fish that weave in and out of the living coral.
The best time to visit Gandoca-Manzanillo is during the dry season, March through April and from September to October, as the park receives plenty of rainfall. Both Manzanillo and Gandoca provide access to the park. Accommodations at these hamlets are sparse. Nearby Puerto Viejo is the best option for those looking to spend at least a few days in the region.
Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
Deep Journey into the Heart of Costa Rica
From misty cloud forests to sun‑kissed Pacific beaches, this Costa Rican adventure weaves together vibrant wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and endless ocean horizons. You’ll trek Monteverde’s canopy bridges, soak in Arenal’s hot springs, kayak mangroves at Drake Bay, and snorkel coral reefs off Manuel Antonio. Friendly local guides and community hosts will share traditions, cuisine, and conservation stories, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit.
The Ultimate Pura Vida Party
Costa Rica is an unforgettable paradise. 5% of the world's total bio diversity. We can't wait to go back and we'll definitely be booking our next adventures through Anywhere Costa and their networks of amazing companies, guides etc that they work with. Book with them and you'll be so happy that you did.
Experiences in Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
Explore hand-picked Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Gandoca Manzanillo Refuge Jungle Hike
Where to stay in Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Hotel Almendros y Corales
Hotel Almendros y Corales is situated on the breathtaking Caribbean coast, in the heart of the Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. The Caribbean coast presents a unique blend of Afro Caribbean, Indigenous and Costa Rican cultures. These mixtures are all noted in the cuisine, lifestyle, and the sounds of reggae and calypso music filling the air, making the Caribbean a truly unique side of Costa Rica.
Shawandha Lodge
Shawandha Lodge is located on the Caribbean side of Costa Rica, in the town of Puerto Viejo. The southern Caribbean coast masterfully blends wilderness and beautiful coastline. You will find a world of beautiful exotic birds, playful animals and smiling people. Puerto Viejo is a laid back beach town, offering a selection of restaurants, gift stores and live entertainment.
Tierra de Sueños
On the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, the Tierra de Sueños ecotourism resort is in Playa Chiquita, which is 3.7 miles (6 km) south of Puerto Viejo. The hotel offers comfortable hardwood bungalows in a jungle setting that is just a short walk from the pristine beaches of Playa Chiquita. The Tierra de Sueños staff, an international, multilingual team, is ready to introduce visitors to Playa Chiquita and a memorable vacation.
La Costa de Papito
La Costa de Papito puts you right between some of the best destinations that Talamanca has to offer. Staying here you can walk to Caribbean beaches, and take a short drive to the nearby wildlife refuge.
Le Cameleon Hotel
Le Cameleon Hotel borders both forest and open shore on the beachfront of Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. The hotel connects visitors with regional nature reserves while maintaining dedicated spa facilities and outdoor dining on site. Landscaped gardens and open terraces stretch toward the trees and the sand.
Azania Bungalows
Azania Bungalows is an exotically designed jungle’s edge hotel located at Cocles Beach in the South Caribbean Region. Visitors will be charmed when relaxing poolside or eating delicious Argentinian style food next to the tropical gardens and thatched roof buildings of Azania Bungalows.
Hotel Cariblue
Hotel Cariblue is found on the Caribbean coast, in the village of Puerto Viejo. This region offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience a completely different side of Costa Rica. You will find a beautiful mixture of indigenous, afro-Caribbean and Costa Rican cultures, expressed in the way of life, speech and food.
Banana Azul
The Banana Azul hotel is located along the Caribbean Coast in the town of Puerto Viejo, part of the Limon region. Puerto Viejo has a reputation for being beautiful, entertaining, and relaxing.
El Encanto Bed & Breakfast
El Encanto Bed & Breakfast is located in the Caribbean town of Cahuita. Just a five-minute walk from the beach, El Encanto is made up of an assortment of cozy, well-equipped bungalows. Cahuita is a small beachside town with a distinct Afro-Caribbean feel.
Atlantida Lodge
Atlantida Lodge is located on the laid back Caribbean coast, in the town of Cahuita. Cahuita is a small village with a beautiful beach that is calm and ideal for swimming. You can also find white and black sand beaches lined with coconut palms, making for a picturesque setting. The town itself is small, yet offers a variety of restaurants, bars and is renowned for its breathtaking national park.
Playa Negra Guesthouse
The Playa Negra Guesthouse is found in the small town of Cahuita along Costa Rica’s Caribbean Coast. Cahuita is known for its laid-back vibe, beautiful beaches and spectacular offshore coral reef.
Hotel La Diosa
Hotel La Diosa is located within Cahuita, a small beach town set along the Caribbean coast of Costa Rica. Cahuita has excellent beaches and is near the Cahuita National Park.
Flora & fauna in Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
The wildlife and plant life you might encounter in Gandoca Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, from iconic species to the rare finds our local insiders know where to look for.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
