This important refuge protects the wildlife in the region, especially species in danger of extinction or having reduced populations. It also safeguards the only naturally occurring mangrove oyster beds to inhabit the reefs alone the coastline.
The remaining primary forest in this regions is unique throughout the Atlantic coastal lowlands because of the relatively small surface area available to support the area's abundant wildlife. This area contains a wide range of lowland habitats with patches of primary forest and numerous rare and unique habitats, including one of the least spoiled coral reefs on the Atlantic coast of Costa Rica. This part of the Atlantic coast is classified as a tropical rain forest. The region's natural resources make it especially attractive to scientists and recreation-seeking visitors.
How to get there:
By Car - From San Jose, your trip to Manzanillo, or the Gandoca
Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is fairly direct.
Take the Braulio Carrillo highway north of
the city towards the Atlantic coast city of
Limón. The trip takes approximately 2:15-2:30
to Limon. The road through Braulio Carrillo
National Park has recently been improved,
however, there are still an enormous amount
of huge potholes littering the highway. It
is unsual to find this road without cloud
cover on the upper region, particularly during
the rainy season. That in combination with
the potholes and steep decline make this a
very dangerous road. We do not recommend that
you make the trip at night.
Once you arrive in Limon, make a right at the first major intersection, there will be a Texeco station on the right corner. From this intersection stay on this road and follow the signs for Cahuita and Puerto Viejo. The road which separates Limón and Manzanillo is in poor condition, littered with potholes and single lane bridges; thus proceed slowly. In all it is about 77 km ( 48 miles ) from Limon to Manzanillo, approximately 12 km ( 7.2 miles ) south of Puerto Viejo. While a four wheel drive would certainly help it is not absolutely necessary for the trip. Manzanillo is approximately 6-6 km ( 3 miles ) from Puerto Viejo.
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