Jairo Mora Sandoval Gandoca-Manzanillo Mixed Wildlife Refuge

Jairo Mora Sandoval Gandoca-Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge is a protected area on the Caribbean coast combining forest, mangrove wetlands, and coral reefs. The site integrates terrestrial and marine habitats that support numerous wildlife species across multiple ecosystems.

The area gained protected status in 1985 to safeguard Caribbean coastal ecosystems. It was renamed in 2013 to honor an environmentalist who died while defending nesting sea turtles from poachers.

The name honors Jairo Mora Sandoval, an environmentalist devoted to protecting sea turtles from illegal hunting. Manzanillo village today connects local communities who balance traditional coastal livelihoods with conservation efforts.

Access the refuge best through Manzanillo village, where accommodations and restaurants serve visitors. Guided tours are available daily and help visitors navigate the different ecosystems safely.

This is one of only two places in Costa Rica where manatees live in their natural habitat. These marine mammals share the space with countless other species, showing the diversity of the coastal zone.

Location: Cahuita

Inception: January 1, 1985

Operator: Área de Conservación La Amistad Caribe (ACLAC)

GPS coordinates: 9.60323,-82.64180

Latest update: December 12, 2025 12:05