Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge: A Caribbean Coastal Paradise
Explore Costa Rica's Caribbean paradise: Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, where rainforest meets reef, and adventure awaits!
The Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge, located on Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast, is a stunning protected area encompassing diverse ecosystems, from pristine beaches and dense rainforests to vibrant coral reefs. It's a haven for nature lovers and adventurers, offering opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and wildlife observation.
A brief summary to Refugio Nacional Gandoca-Manzanillo
- J869+WPR, 36, Limón Province, CR
- +50627599100
Local tips
- Bring closed-toe shoes for hiking and a change of clothes for enjoying the beaches.
- Consider hiring a local guide to enhance your wildlife spotting and learn about the refuge's ecosystem.
- Visit between March and May to witness the nesting season of leatherback turtles.
- Bring insect repellent, water, and snacks for your hikes.
Getting There
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Bus
From Puerto Viejo, take the local bus heading south towards Manzanillo. The fare is approximately $1 to $3, and the ride takes about 25 to 30 minutes. The bus will drop you off at the Manzanillo sector, the most popular entrance to the refuge. From the bus stop, it's a short walk to the entrance.
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Taxi
A taxi from Puerto Viejo to the Manzanillo sector costs around $20. For a direct ride to the Gandoca sector, expect to pay around $50. Taxis are readily available in Puerto Viejo, but it's always a good idea to agree on the price before you get in.
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Walking
From Manzanillo, you can walk along the beach south to reach the main hiking trail within the park. You may need to cross a small river, depending on the time of year. The coastal trail stretches 5 km (3.4 miles) to Punta Mona, taking approximately 2.5 hours roundtrip. It is recommended to hire a local guide if you plan to hike beyond Tom Bay.
Discover more about Refugio Nacional Gandoca-Manzanillo
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
FAITH GLAMPING DOME COSTA RICA
2.4 km
Experience unique glamping in Costa Rica's South Caribbean: Geodesic domes, private beach access, and nature immersion near Manzanillo.
Congo Bongo EcoVillage Costa Rica
2.6 km
Escape to a sustainable rainforest paradise: Eco-lodges, wildlife, and pristine beaches await in Costa Rica's Caribbean!
GypSea Café | Playa Chiquita
4.2 km
Discover Caribbean flavors in a lush garden setting at GypSea Café, Playa Chiquita – fresh ingredients, vibrant atmosphere, and unforgettable tastes.
La Kukula Lodge
4.2 km
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Soda Títeres
4.7 km
Experience the authentic flavors of the Caribbean at Soda Títeres in Playa Chiquita, Costa Rica. Fresh, local cuisine in a vibrant setting.
Punta de Vista
4.7 km
Discover breathtaking coastal views and natural beauty at Punta de Vista near Manzanillo, Costa Rica. A perfect spot for photographers and nature lovers.
Finca Las Hormigas Permaculture Farm
5.4 km
Discover sustainable living at Finca Las Hormigas: Permaculture farm stays, workshops, and immersive nature experiences in Costa Rica's Caribbean jungle.
Villas Del Caribe
5.8 km
Experience Caribbean bliss at Villas Del Caribe in Puerto Viejo: Ocean views, beachfront access, and a tranquil escape await.
Caribe Town Bungalows & Suites
6.2 km
Tranquil bungalows & suites near Playa Cocles, Costa Rica. Jungle gardens, pool, & easy access to beaches & Puerto Viejo.
Geckoes Lodge
6.5 km
Escape to a tranquil rainforest retreat near Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, with private villas, stunning nature, and nearby beaches.
La Costa de Papito
7.4 km
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Azania Bungalows
7.5 km
Experience Caribbean charm at Azania Bungalows in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica, steps from Playa Cocles and surrounded by tropical beauty.
Sol del Caribe
7.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors and vibrant ambiance at Sol del Caribe in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Fresh seafood, vegan options, and live music await!
Cariblue Beach and Jungle Resort
7.7 km
Experience beachfront bliss and jungle tranquility at Cariblue Beach and Jungle Resort in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica. Your Caribbean adventure awaits!
Caribeans Chocolate and Coffee
8.0 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
Ara Manzanillo
1.9 km
Explore Ara Manzanillo, a stunning nature preserve in Limón Province, Costa Rica, known for its vibrant birdlife and breathtaking landscapes.
The Amazing Treehouse and Nature Observatorio in Manzanillo, Limon, Costa Rica
1.9 km
Discover adventure and ecological wonders at The Amazing Treehouse and Nature Observatorio in Manzanillo, Costa Rica.
Yicel shipwreck
2.9 km
Explore the captivating Yicel Shipwreck in Manzanillo, Costa Rica's hidden gem for history lovers and adventure seekers.
Punta Uva
2.9 km
Experience the beauty of Punta Uva, a coastal paradise in Limón Province, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation, adventure, and wildlife exploration.
Playa Manzanillo
3.0 km
Experience the untouched beauty of Playa Manzanillo, a serene beach destination in Costa Rica's Limón Province, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Punta Uva
3.2 km
Discover Playa Punta Uva, Costa Rica: a serene Caribbean beach with calm waters, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Playa Punta Uva Arrecife
3.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Playa Punta Uva Arrecife, a serene beach destination on Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
CHOCORART
3.7 km
Discover the art of chocolate making at Chocorart, where every bite is a taste of Costa Rican paradise.
Ride The Rainforest Costa Rica
5.0 km
Explore the lush landscapes and thrilling adventures of Ride The Rainforest in Costa Rica, a must-visit for nature and adventure enthusiasts.
Caribe Horse Riding Club
5.3 km
Experience the breathtaking landscapes of Limón Province while horseback riding at Caribe Horse Riding Club in Cocles, Costa Rica.
Jaguar Rescue Center
5.7 km
Discover the heartwarming journey of rescued wildlife at the Jaguar Rescue Center, a top attraction on Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Playa Cocles
6.9 km
Discover the enchanting Playa Cocles, a tropical beach paradise in Costa Rica's Limón Province, perfect for relaxation and adventure alike.
Isla Cocles
8.0 km
Discover Isla Cocles: Pristine beaches, vibrant culture, and tranquil beauty await off Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Talamanca Viewpoint
8.2 km
Experience breathtaking coastal views and serene landscapes at Talamanca Viewpoint, a must-visit destination in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica.
The Amazing Treehouse and Nature Observatorio in Puerto Viejo, Limon, Costa Rica
8.5 km
Explore The Amazing Treehouse and Nature Observatorio in Puerto Viejo, Costa Rica – an ecological haven blending adventure, education, and breathtaking views.
Essential places to dine
Moca Beach Restaurant
2.4 km
Discover coastal flavors at Moca Beach Restaurant near Manzanillo - where fresh seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
El Refugio Grill
2.5 km
Experience authentic Caribbean flavors at El Refugio Grill in Puerto Viejo – a culinary treasure just steps from Playa Grande.
Pura Gula Restaurante
4.5 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Pura Gula Restaurante in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca – where local ingredients meet culinary creativity.
Da Lime Beach Club & Restaurant at Hotel Aguas Claras
5.6 km
Discover culinary bliss at Da Lime Beach Club & Restaurant in Punta Cocles - where stunning ocean views meet exquisite local flavors.
La Pecora Nera Ristorante
6.4 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at La Pecora Nera Ristorante in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - where every dish tells a delicious story.
La NENA
6.5 km
Discover La NENA in Cocles - where Caribbean flavors meet local charm for an unforgettable dining experience.
Restaurante Rio Negro
6.6 km
Experience exquisite Costa Rican cuisine with breathtaking views at Restaurante Rio Negro in Limón Province.
Take It Easy
7.6 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine in Limón Province at Take It Easy – where fresh flavors meet warm hospitality.
Tasty Waves Cantina
8.0 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at Tasty Waves Cantina in Talamanca—where flavor meets fun by the coast.
The Beach Bar & Restaurant
8.4 km
Experience coastal dining at its best at The Beach Bar & Restaurant near Playa Cocles - where fresh flavors meet stunning ocean views.
Todo Es Posible
8.8 km
Experience authentic Italian cuisine at Todo Es Posible in Puerto Viejo – where every dish is crafted with love and local flair.
Restaurante Lidia's Place
9.2 km
Experience authentic Caribbean cuisine at Restaurante Lidia's Place in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca - where every meal tells a story.
Amimodo Ristorante Pizzeria
9.2 km
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La Ventanita Puerto Viejo
9.3 km
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El Dragon : PV
9.3 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Casa Mandala
4.4 km
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jenjohnson studio
7.7 km
Explore Jenjohnson Studio in Puerto Viejo for unique clothing that captures the spirit of Costa Rica's Caribbean coast.
Dress to impress by Naia
9.1 km
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Biomercado Puerto Viejo
9.3 km
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Cacao Seduction
9.3 km
Discover Cacao Seduction in Puerto Viejo: A unique underwear store offering comfort, style, and eco-friendly choices for the modern traveler.
Mayan Hands Puerto Viejo
9.3 km
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Brava Heritage Collection
9.3 km
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Marea Santa Store
9.4 km
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Moana CR
9.4 km
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Artesanal Nativo
9.4 km
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Naturama Store
9.4 km
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Samoa Boutique
9.4 km
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Yire Store
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Pura Bali Shop
9.4 km
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Tienda Caribe
9.4 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Beach Break Bar & Restaurant
7.7 km
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Bar tapas y más
9.1 km
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Green Jaguar
9.3 km
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Sports bar Puerto Viejo
9.3 km
Enjoy a lively sports bar atmosphere in Puerto Viejo, where great food and thrilling games come together.
LiQSTiX
9.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Viejo at LiQSTiX, where refreshing cocktails and friendly vibes await in the heart of the Caribbean.
Playa Negra Brewing Beachfront Hotel
9.7 km
Experience the perfect blend of relaxation, local brews, and Caribbean charm at Playa Negra Brewing Beachfront Hotel in Puerto Viejo.
One Love
10.1 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Caribbean cuisine at One Love, a grill paradise on Playa Negra in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca.
Azul Bar & Grill
11.3 km
Experience the tropical flavors and vibrant atmosphere of Azul Bar & Grill in Puerto Viejo, where every meal is a celebration of local culture and cuisine.
Irie Vibes Bar & Restaurant
22.4 km
Discover the vibrant Caribbean flavors and lively atmosphere at Irie Vibes Bar & Restaurant in Cahuita, Costa Rica.
El Chiri tapas & bar
22.4 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rican cuisine at El Chiri Tapas & Bar, a culinary hotspot in Cahuita, perfect for food lovers.
Restaurante y Bar La Peruanita
22.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante y Bar La Peruanita in Cahuita, a dining destination for food lovers.
Island Restaurant and Bar
22.4 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Island Restaurant and Bar in Cahuita, where every dish tells a story.
Splash bar y restaurante,comida tipica y pizza
22.4 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Splash Bar y Restaurante, where local cuisine meets a laid-back Caribbean vibe in Cahuita.
Cahuita's Taste Cider and Shine
22.6 km
Discover unique flavors at Cahuita's Taste Cider and Shine, the premier beer garden in Costa Rica's beautiful Cahuita.
Irie Zone
22.8 km
Discover the vibrant spirit of Costa Rica at Irie Zone, a lively bar in Cahuita known for its tropical cocktails and lively atmosphere.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Limom
9.4 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and local flavors at Limom, the ultimate bar in Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, where fun meets the essence of Caribbean culture.
The Kat House natural wine bar
9.6 km
Discover the authentic taste of natural wines at The Kat House, Puerto Viejo's charming bar and restaurant with a focus on organic and local ingredients.
Noahbarthly
9.8 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Puerto Viejo at Noahbarthly, where tropical cocktails and local charm meet in a lively atmosphere.
Tropical Nigh Club
25.1 km
Explore the vibrant nightlife of Tropical Night Club in Changuinola, where music and dance come alive in a tropical paradise.
La chosita
49.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Chosita, a lively bar in Puerto Limón offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Tropical bar discotec
57.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Bocas del Toro at Tropical Bar Discotec, where dance, music, and tropical cocktails create unforgettable memories.
Barco Hundido
57.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Barco Hundido in Bocas del Toro – where music, dancing, and unforgettable moments come together.
Rush Bocas
57.2 km
Discover the lively nightlife of Rush Bocas, a premier disco club in Bocas del Toro, where unforgettable nights and great music await.
Paradise Night Club
58.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Paradise Night Club in Limón, where unforgettable parties and electric atmospheres await every night.
Neon Party Corales III
58.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Neon Party Corales III, a must-visit cocktail bar in Limón Province with stunning drinks and lively ambiance.
Discoteque Junitos
61.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Limón at Discoteque Junitos, a lively night club offering eclectic music and an exciting atmosphere.
Sitio Barriles
91.2 km
Explore Sitio Barriles, an archaeological museum in Chiriquí Province, showcasing pre-Columbian artifacts and ancient history amidst stunning landscapes.
Hotel Dos Rios
91.2 km
Experience the charm of Chiriquí at Hotel Dos Rios, where comfort meets the beauty of Panama's stunning landscapes.
Fanny's Terrace Bistro
92.5 km
Experience the culinary charm of Fanny's Terrace Bistro in Volcán, where fresh, local flavors meet breathtaking views.
Hotel Volcán Inn
92.8 km
Experience the beauty of Chiriquí Province at Hotel Volcán Inn, your gateway to adventure and relaxation amidst stunning landscapes.
