48 safari lodges
    Caribbean Coast & Tortuguero Canals, Costa Rica
    Quiet
    Malaria: Moderate

    Safari in Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval

    Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval is a protected area in Costa Rica.

    Best timeDecember to April (dry season) for wildlife viewing. Green season (May–November) for fewer crowds.
    Species
    63
    Big Five
    0/5
    Lodges
    48
    Recommended stay
    1-2 days

    Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval Map

    Park location and safari lodges

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    63 species recorded in Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval3 threatened

    Book Safari Experiences in Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval

    Game drives, guided tours, and unique experiences in Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval

    Costa Rica offers incredible wildlife viewing year-round, but we find the dry season from December to April to be ideal for predictable weather and easier trail access. For those who don't mind...

    January

    Now
    peak

    Dry Season

    Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures across most of the country. This is the start of the peak tourist season, so pack light layers and sun protection.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and migratory birds begin to arrive. Look for nesting sea turtles on the Pacific coast.

    We love exploring Corcovado National Park this month, as the trails are dry and wildlife is abundant.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    February

    peak

    Dry Season

    Conditions remain dry and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities. It's still a popular time to visit, so book accommodations and tours in advance.

    This is a prime month for whale watching on the Pacific coast. Many bird species are in full breeding plumage.

    We recommend heading to Marino Ballena National Park for incredible whale sightings and stunning coastal scenery.

    Marino Ballena National Park
    Tortuguero National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    March

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Days are long and sunny, perfect for beach and jungle exploration.

    Sea turtle nesting continues on the Caribbean coast. Keep an eye out for resplendent quetzals in the cloud forests.

    We find the cloud forests of Monteverde particularly magical in March, with chances to spot the elusive quetzal.

    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Corcovado National Park
    Palo Verde National Park

    April

    high

    Dry Season

    The end of the dry season brings slightly warmer temperatures, but still plenty of sunshine. Some areas may start to see brief, isolated showers.

    This is a great month for spotting sloths as they are more active. Migratory birds are preparing to depart.

    We love the vibrant colors of the scarlet macaws in Carara National Park this time of year.

    Carara National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    La Fortuna Waterfall

    May

    moderate

    Green Season

    The 'green season' begins with increased humidity and afternoon showers. Mornings are often clear and sunny, with lush landscapes.

    The rainforests are at their most vibrant. This is an excellent time for amphibian and reptile spotting, including poison dart frogs.

    We recommend exploring the rainforest trails around Arenal Volcano, as the lushness is unparalleled and crowds are thinner.

    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    La Selva Biological Station

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, short afternoon rain showers, but mornings are typically sunny. The landscape is incredibly green and alive.

    This is a peak month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Howler monkeys are very active.

    We adore the dramatic nesting activity at Tortuguero National Park, a truly unforgettable spectacle.

    Tortuguero National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Braulio Carrillo National Park

    July

    moderate

    Green Season

    Similar to June, with warm temperatures and afternoon rain. The 'mini dry season' on the Pacific coast offers a brief respite from the heaviest rains.

    Sea turtle nesting continues in Tortuguero. The rainforest is teeming with life, making it ideal for spotting diverse flora and fauna.

    We find the biodiversity in Corcovado National Park to be at its peak during the green season, with fewer visitors.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    August

    moderate

    Green Season

    The green season persists with warm, humid conditions and afternoon showers. The Pacific coast experiences its 'mini dry season'.

    This is another excellent month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Look for nesting humpback whales on the Pacific coast.

    We love the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in the Osa Peninsula this month.

    Osa Peninsula
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy afternoon rains common. Mornings can still be pleasant, but be prepared for downpours.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. This is a good time for birdwatching as many resident species are active.

    We recommend embracing the dramatic rainforest atmosphere in the less crowded parks like Braulio Carrillo.

    Braulio Carrillo National Park
    La Selva Biological Station
    Palo Verde National Park

    October

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still frequent. The landscape remains exceptionally green and vibrant.

    This is a fantastic month for spotting sloths and monkeys. The birdlife is also very active.

    We find the sheer abundance of wildlife around La Selva Biological Station to be astounding in October.

    La Selva Biological Station
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The transition month sees decreasing rainfall and increasing sunshine. Mornings are often clear, with occasional afternoon showers.

    The start of the dry season brings more predictable weather for wildlife viewing. Migratory birds begin to return.

    We love the return of clearer skies and the beginning of peak wildlife activity in Manuel Antonio.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest with sunny days and pleasant temperatures. This marks the start of the peak tourist season.

    Whale watching season picks up on the Pacific coast. Many species are active and visible.

    We recommend starting your safari adventure in the popular Pacific coast parks like Manuel Antonio for classic Costa Rican wildlife encounters.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    January

    Now
    peak

    Dry Season

    Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures across most of the country. This is the start of the peak tourist season, so pack light layers and sun protection.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and migratory birds begin to arrive. Look for nesting sea turtles on the Pacific coast.

    We love exploring Corcovado National Park this month, as the trails are dry and wildlife is abundant.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    February

    peak

    Dry Season

    Conditions remain dry and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities. It's still a popular time to visit, so book accommodations and tours in advance.

    This is a prime month for whale watching on the Pacific coast. Many bird species are in full breeding plumage.

    We recommend heading to Marino Ballena National Park for incredible whale sightings and stunning coastal scenery.

    Marino Ballena National Park
    Tortuguero National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    March

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Days are long and sunny, perfect for beach and jungle exploration.

    Sea turtle nesting continues on the Caribbean coast. Keep an eye out for resplendent quetzals in the cloud forests.

    We find the cloud forests of Monteverde particularly magical in March, with chances to spot the elusive quetzal.

    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Corcovado National Park
    Palo Verde National Park

    April

    high

    Dry Season

    The end of the dry season brings slightly warmer temperatures, but still plenty of sunshine. Some areas may start to see brief, isolated showers.

    This is a great month for spotting sloths as they are more active. Migratory birds are preparing to depart.

    We love the vibrant colors of the scarlet macaws in Carara National Park this time of year.

    Carara National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    La Fortuna Waterfall

    May

    moderate

    Green Season

    The 'green season' begins with increased humidity and afternoon showers. Mornings are often clear and sunny, with lush landscapes.

    The rainforests are at their most vibrant. This is an excellent time for amphibian and reptile spotting, including poison dart frogs.

    We recommend exploring the rainforest trails around Arenal Volcano, as the lushness is unparalleled and crowds are thinner.

    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    La Selva Biological Station

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, short afternoon rain showers, but mornings are typically sunny. The landscape is incredibly green and alive.

    This is a peak month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Howler monkeys are very active.

    We adore the dramatic nesting activity at Tortuguero National Park, a truly unforgettable spectacle.

    Tortuguero National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Braulio Carrillo National Park

    July

    moderate

    Green Season

    Similar to June, with warm temperatures and afternoon rain. The 'mini dry season' on the Pacific coast offers a brief respite from the heaviest rains.

    Sea turtle nesting continues in Tortuguero. The rainforest is teeming with life, making it ideal for spotting diverse flora and fauna.

    We find the biodiversity in Corcovado National Park to be at its peak during the green season, with fewer visitors.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    August

    moderate

    Green Season

    The green season persists with warm, humid conditions and afternoon showers. The Pacific coast experiences its 'mini dry season'.

    This is another excellent month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Look for nesting humpback whales on the Pacific coast.

    We love the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in the Osa Peninsula this month.

    Osa Peninsula
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy afternoon rains common. Mornings can still be pleasant, but be prepared for downpours.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. This is a good time for birdwatching as many resident species are active.

    We recommend embracing the dramatic rainforest atmosphere in the less crowded parks like Braulio Carrillo.

    Braulio Carrillo National Park
    La Selva Biological Station
    Palo Verde National Park

    October

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still frequent. The landscape remains exceptionally green and vibrant.

    This is a fantastic month for spotting sloths and monkeys. The birdlife is also very active.

    We find the sheer abundance of wildlife around La Selva Biological Station to be astounding in October.

    La Selva Biological Station
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The transition month sees decreasing rainfall and increasing sunshine. Mornings are often clear, with occasional afternoon showers.

    The start of the dry season brings more predictable weather for wildlife viewing. Migratory birds begin to return.

    We love the return of clearer skies and the beginning of peak wildlife activity in Manuel Antonio.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest with sunny days and pleasant temperatures. This marks the start of the peak tourist season.

    Whale watching season picks up on the Pacific coast. Many species are active and visible.

    We recommend starting your safari adventure in the popular Pacific coast parks like Manuel Antonio for classic Costa Rican wildlife encounters.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    January

    Now
    peak

    Dry Season

    Expect sunny days and pleasant temperatures across most of the country. This is the start of the peak tourist season, so pack light layers and sun protection.

    Birding is excellent as resident species are active and migratory birds begin to arrive. Look for nesting sea turtles on the Pacific coast.

    We love exploring Corcovado National Park this month, as the trails are dry and wildlife is abundant.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    February

    peak

    Dry Season

    Conditions remain dry and sunny, ideal for outdoor activities. It's still a popular time to visit, so book accommodations and tours in advance.

    This is a prime month for whale watching on the Pacific coast. Many bird species are in full breeding plumage.

    We recommend heading to Marino Ballena National Park for incredible whale sightings and stunning coastal scenery.

    Marino Ballena National Park
    Tortuguero National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    March

    high

    Dry Season

    The dry season continues with warm temperatures and minimal rainfall. Days are long and sunny, perfect for beach and jungle exploration.

    Sea turtle nesting continues on the Caribbean coast. Keep an eye out for resplendent quetzals in the cloud forests.

    We find the cloud forests of Monteverde particularly magical in March, with chances to spot the elusive quetzal.

    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Corcovado National Park
    Palo Verde National Park

    April

    high

    Dry Season

    The end of the dry season brings slightly warmer temperatures, but still plenty of sunshine. Some areas may start to see brief, isolated showers.

    This is a great month for spotting sloths as they are more active. Migratory birds are preparing to depart.

    We love the vibrant colors of the scarlet macaws in Carara National Park this time of year.

    Carara National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    La Fortuna Waterfall

    May

    moderate

    Green Season

    The 'green season' begins with increased humidity and afternoon showers. Mornings are often clear and sunny, with lush landscapes.

    The rainforests are at their most vibrant. This is an excellent time for amphibian and reptile spotting, including poison dart frogs.

    We recommend exploring the rainforest trails around Arenal Volcano, as the lushness is unparalleled and crowds are thinner.

    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    La Selva Biological Station

    June

    moderate

    Green Season

    Expect frequent, short afternoon rain showers, but mornings are typically sunny. The landscape is incredibly green and alive.

    This is a peak month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Howler monkeys are very active.

    We adore the dramatic nesting activity at Tortuguero National Park, a truly unforgettable spectacle.

    Tortuguero National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Braulio Carrillo National Park

    July

    moderate

    Green Season

    Similar to June, with warm temperatures and afternoon rain. The 'mini dry season' on the Pacific coast offers a brief respite from the heaviest rains.

    Sea turtle nesting continues in Tortuguero. The rainforest is teeming with life, making it ideal for spotting diverse flora and fauna.

    We find the biodiversity in Corcovado National Park to be at its peak during the green season, with fewer visitors.

    Corcovado National Park
    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    August

    moderate

    Green Season

    The green season persists with warm, humid conditions and afternoon showers. The Pacific coast experiences its 'mini dry season'.

    This is another excellent month for sea turtle nesting in Tortuguero. Look for nesting humpback whales on the Pacific coast.

    We love the dramatic landscapes and abundant wildlife viewing opportunities in the Osa Peninsula this month.

    Osa Peninsula
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Arenal Volcano National Park

    September

    low

    Green Season

    This is typically the wettest month, with heavy afternoon rains common. Mornings can still be pleasant, but be prepared for downpours.

    The rainforest is incredibly lush. This is a good time for birdwatching as many resident species are active.

    We recommend embracing the dramatic rainforest atmosphere in the less crowded parks like Braulio Carrillo.

    Braulio Carrillo National Park
    La Selva Biological Station
    Palo Verde National Park

    October

    low

    Green Season

    Rainfall begins to decrease, though showers are still frequent. The landscape remains exceptionally green and vibrant.

    This is a fantastic month for spotting sloths and monkeys. The birdlife is also very active.

    We find the sheer abundance of wildlife around La Selva Biological Station to be astounding in October.

    La Selva Biological Station
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve

    November

    moderate

    Green Season

    The transition month sees decreasing rainfall and increasing sunshine. Mornings are often clear, with occasional afternoon showers.

    The start of the dry season brings more predictable weather for wildlife viewing. Migratory birds begin to return.

    We love the return of clearer skies and the beginning of peak wildlife activity in Manuel Antonio.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Arenal Volcano National Park
    Tortuguero National Park

    December

    peak

    Dry Season

    The dry season begins in earnest with sunny days and pleasant temperatures. This marks the start of the peak tourist season.

    Whale watching season picks up on the Pacific coast. Many species are active and visible.

    We recommend starting your safari adventure in the popular Pacific coast parks like Manuel Antonio for classic Costa Rican wildlife encounters.

    Manuel Antonio National Park
    Corcovado National Park
    Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve
    Planning & reference

    We love Gandoca-Manzanillo for its raw, untamed beauty, where the jungle meets the Caribbean Sea in a symphony of sounds and colours. It's a place where we truly feel immersed in nature, offering a unique blend of marine life, dense rainforest, and the vibrant culture of the South Caribbean. We recommend taking a guided walk to uncover its hidden treasures, especially during the dry season from December to April.

    Gate Times

    The refuge typically opens its gates from 8:00 AM to 4:00 PM daily. We always recommend arriving closer to opening to experience the morning wildlife activity and avoid the midday heat. While no specific permits are usually required for general entry, guided tours often need advance booking, especially during the December to April dry season when wildlife viewing is at its peak.

    Tipping

    Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory in Costa Rica. For a half-day guided tour, we suggest around $10-15 USD per person for an excellent guide who enhances your experience. For full-day excursions, $20-25 USD per person is a good benchmark. We always recommend tipping in local currency (Colones) if possible, or clean USD notes, directly to your guide at the end of the tour.

    Dress Code

    Given the humid, tropical environment, we find lightweight, quick-drying clothing to be essential. Earthy tones are practical for blending into the forest, but bright colours are also perfectly acceptable here. Long sleeves and trousers are advisable to protect against insects and sun. Sturdy, waterproof hiking shoes or rubber boots are a must, especially if you plan to explore the muddier trails. A wide-brimmed hat is also a good idea to shield from the sun and occasional rain.

    Photography

    We encourage capturing the incredible biodiversity, but always with respect. Drones are generally prohibited within the refuge to avoid disturbing wildlife and other visitors. For the best shots, we recommend a fast lens for low-light jungle conditions and a good zoom for distant wildlife. Be patient, move slowly, and never use flash directly on animals, especially nocturnal creatures or nesting birds. We always advise bringing extra batteries, as the humidity can drain them quickly.

    Etiquette

    We urge visitors to stay on marked trails to protect the fragile ecosystem and for your own safety. Maintain a respectful distance from all wildlife; never feed or attempt to touch animals. Keep noise levels low to avoid disturbing creatures and other visitors, allowing everyone to enjoy the natural sounds. We believe in leaving no trace, so pack out everything you pack in. Remember, this is their home, and we are privileged guests.

    What to Bring

    Waterproof daypack
    Reusable water bottle
    Insect repellent (with DEET or picaridin)
    Lightweight rain jacket or poncho
    Sturdy waterproof hiking boots
    Binoculars
    Camera with extra battery
    Sunscreen
    Wide-brimmed hat
    Quick-drying long-sleeved shirt and trousers
    Small first-aid kit
    Headlamp or flashlight

    Temperature

    24.11°C

    75°F · Range: 21.44–27.29°C

    Rainfall

    216.3 mm

    Heavy rains · 26.4 rainy days

    Humidity

    86.3%

    Sunshine

    10.1 hrs/day

    Wind Speed

    3.08 m/s

    11.1 km/h

    Based on 5 years of weather data · Data source: Open-Meteo Archive API

    Refugio Nacional de Vida Silvestre Gandoca - Manzanillo, Jairo Mora Sandoval Reviews