Refugio Nacional Mixto de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo
Field Ecology, 2025 made a visit to Refugio Nacional Mixto de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo. Â
The Refugio Nacional Mixto de Vida Silvestre Gandoca-Manzanillo is a biodiverse wildlife refuge on Costa Rica's southern Caribbean coast. It is a "mixed" refuge because it is managed jointly by the government and local communities, which contributes to its unique blend of environmental conservation and local culture. Spanning over 9,000 hectares of land and sea, the refuge protects a variety of ecosystems, including a lush lowland rainforest, wetlands, and a five-square-kilometer coral reef. It is home to an incredible range of wildlife, such as monkeys, sloths, jaguars, and a variety of sea turtles that use the protected beaches as a nesting ground. The refuge offers visitors opportunities for hiking, snorkeling, and kayaking, allowing them to experience the rich marine and terrestrial life up close.
Updated Sep 06, 2025 by Ben Thornton