Refuge de faune de Manzanillo
Le Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge est une zone côtière sauvage située sur la côte sud des Caraïbes du Costa Rica. Il englobe à la fois la terre et la mer, offrant un sanctuaire à une flore et une faune diversifiées. Le refuge abrite des forêts tropicales luxuriantes, des forêts de mangroves et des récifs coralliens dynamiques. Les visiteurs peuvent faire des randonnées sur les sentiers, du kayak dans les mangroves et de la plongée en apnée dans les eaux claires pour explorer la riche biodiversité du Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge.
Situation et moyens d'accès
The Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is situated along the southern Caribbean coast of Costa Rica, approximately 15 kilometers southeast of Puerto Limón. The refuge spans the area between the villages of Manzanillo and Punta Mona, bordering the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge.
- By Car: From Puerto Limón, take Route 36 south toward Sixaola. Turn left at the sign for Manzanillo and follow the coastal road through the villages of Cocles, Chiquita, and Punta Uva. The refuge entrance is near the end of the road in Manzanillo.
- By Public Transport: Buses run from Puerto Limón to Manzanillo several times daily, though schedules may vary. Taxis are also available from Puerto Limón or nearby beach towns.
Heures d'ouverture et billets
The refuge is open daily from sunrise to sunset. There is no formal entrance fee, but donations to support conservation efforts are appreciated. Some guided tours may require advance booking.
Meilleur moment pour visiter
Early mornings or late afternoons are ideal for wildlife spotting and avoiding the midday heat. The dry season (February to April) offers clearer trails, while the green season (May to November) brings lush vegetation and fewer visitors.
Durée de la visite
A leisurely exploration of the refuge can take 2–4 hours, depending on trail choices and wildlife encounters. Full-day visits are possible for those wishing to combine hiking with beach time.
Activités
- Hiking through primary and secondary rainforest trails.
- Birdwatching (over 350 species recorded, including toucans and parrots).
- Wildlife spotting (howler monkeys, sloths, and occasionally sea turtles).
- Snorkeling or swimming in the coral-rich waters near Manzanillo Beach.
Installations
- Basic restrooms are available near the village of Manzanillo.
- No formal cafes or shops within the refuge; bring water and snacks.
- Limited parking near the trailheads.
- Trails are uneven and may not be suitable for those with mobility challenges.
Ce qu'il faut apporter et porter
- Sturdy walking shoes or hiking sandals.
- Lightweight, breathable clothing in neutral colors.
- Insect repellent, sunscreen, and a hat.
- Reusable water bottle and snacks.
- Binoculars and a waterproof camera.
Règles et règlements
- Restez sur les sentiers balisés pour protéger les écosystèmes fragiles.
- Do not feed or disturb wildlife.
- No littering; carry out all trash.
- Pets are not permitted.
Informations sur le contact
For guided tours or further details, inquire locally in Manzanillo or check with the Costa Rican National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC). An official website is not readily available.