Manzanillo and the reef
A village with a beach, where boats take guests snorkelling to the coral reef off the coast when the sea is clear.
Manzanillo · Limón · Costa Rica
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge
The far south-east Caribbean coast: forest, mangroves, coral reef and beaches where leatherback turtles nest.
- National wildlife refuge
- Created in 1985
- About 9,400 ha
- Leatherback turtle nesting, spring
About the area
Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge covers the south-eastern tip of the Costa Rican Caribbean coast, from Manzanillo to the mouth of the Sixaola River at the Panamanian border. It protects rainforest, a rare orey swamp, mangroves, beaches and a coral reef.
The sandy beaches of Gandoca are one of the places where leatherback turtles nest, and the lagoon is known for its manatees. Much of the refuge is private land and local communities, so visits are done with local guides and community operators: a walk to Punta Mona, a trip to the reef for snorkelling, and wildlife walks.
- Leatherback turtle nesting, in spring
- Coral reef at Manzanillo for snorkelling
- Mangroves and rainforest with a local guide
- A quiet, community-based coast
Wildlife
Leatherback turtlesManatees (rarely seen)Howler and white-faced monkeysSlothsCaimansReef fish
What to do
Punta Mona trail
A coastal walk from Manzanillo through forest and along the beach with a local guide.
Gandoca beach and lagoon
Leatherback turtles nest on this beach in spring; community guides lead turtle walks in season. The lagoon is home to caimans and manatees.
Plan your visit
- Access
- Visits are arranged with local guides and community operators. We confirm the conditions when you book.
- Turtle season
- Leatherback turtles nest mostly from about March to July. Walks are only held in season and with local guides.
- Best time
- February to April and September to October are the driest months on this coast; the sea is calmest in September and October.
- What to bring
- Swimwear, water shoes, sun protection, insect repellent and a rain jacket.
Dates, areas and conditions are approximate and based on published information from SINAC; hours, fees and rules can change. We confirm the current conditions when you book.
Getting there
By road
Manzanillo is about 13 km east of Puerto Viejo de Talámanca on the coast road, about 30 minutes. Gandoca is reached by a road along the coast.
Transfer
We arrange shuttles and private transfers from Puerto Viejo and the Bocas del Toro border. Ask us for a quote.
Tours on the south Caribbean coast
Where to stay
Frequently asked questions
When do the leatherback turtles nest?
Mostly from about March to July, on the beaches of Gandoca. Walks are held in season with local guides.
Can I snorkel?
Yes, at Manzanillo on guided boat trips when the sea is calm.
Where do I stay?
In Puerto Viejo, Punta Uva or Playa Chiquita; we offer Colores del Caribe and Casa Merlin.