Walk from Manzanillo through dense Caribbean rainforest to secret beaches at Punta Mona in the Gandoca‑Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge. This 5‑hour guided hike combines wildlife viewing, coastal geology, and an abandoned eco‑village for an offbeat jungle‑to‑sea experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The trail opens under a ceiling of broad-leaved trees; humidity presses at your skin and the Caribbean breathes salt and green. Footsteps sink into soft loam as howler monkeys call overhead and the surf hisses distant invitation. This is Punta Mona and the Manzanillo stretch of the Gandoca‑Manzanillo Wildlife Refuge—where jungle rivers push toward a coastline of untouched sand.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate—cardio endurance for several hours of walking with short steep sections and uneven terrain.
Wildlife
History
Gandoca‑Manzanillo was established to protect coastal rainforest, mangroves and marine nesting sites; the area retains Afro‑Caribbean and indigenous Bribri cultural ties.
Conservation
This refuge is ecologically sensitive—stay on trails, avoid disturbing wildlife or nesting beaches, and pack out all trash to protect fragile coastal and mangrove systems.
Reserve your spot on the Discover the Jungle and Sea in Manzanillo today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Begin at first light to avoid heat and increase chances of seeing sloths, monkeys and birds.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails can be muddy and rocky—trail shoes with good tread reduce slip risk on wet roots and beach rock.
Bring insect protection
Apply long‑lasting repellent and consider a breathable long sleeve to reduce bites in humid forest sections.
Follow nesting rules
Avoid beach stretches marked for turtle nesting and stay with your guide to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
Sturdy trail shoes
Provide traction on muddy trails, roots and rocky beach approaches.
Light rain jacket
A compact waterproof is useful during frequent tropical showers (May–Nov).
summer
Reusable water bottle (2L+)
Hydration is essential in humid, warm conditions—carry enough for the full day.
Insect repellent and sun hat
Repellent reduces bites in the forest; a hat protects against sun on exposed beach sections.