Puerto Manzanillo Things to Do Tips by grets

Sea Kayaking

Kayaks are available from the lodge, loaded up on the van and taken down to the sea. When we got there the sea was a little too rough for us inexperienced kayakers, so we decided to paddle up stream instead.

We werwe incrediblt lucky to come across a sloth hanging on a branch right down by the water's edge, drinking. Sloths spend most of their lives in the tree tops, and normally get all the water they need from the moisture in their food. They susually only descend to the ground to defecate once a week. We were so close we could have touched him as he slowly made his way up the branch again. What an amzing experience.

Jungle trek

Almonds and Corals Lodge, as well as the village of Manzanillo, are actually inside the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Park.

From the lodge a guide took us up through the forest and back down to the Caribbean. Underfoot can be damp and dirty in the forest, and we did have to do a little wading along the beach. For those who did not have waterproof walking boots, the lodge hired out (free of charge) wellington boots.

Green Iguana Project at Kekoldi Indian Reserve

Driving through the village from the lodge, we picked up a gentleman who looked at little like the village simpleton or a tramp. I assumed we were just giving him a lift home, but he turned out to be our guide. I can safely say that he is one of the BEST guides we've EVER had! Let that be a lesson Grete, never judge a book by its covers!

A few years ago the Green Iguana was classed as an endangered species. The local indigenous people wanted to make sure the reptile did not die out, and made this small enclosure where the iguana would be able to reproduce in captivity. The guide would explain the life cycle of the iguana and we saw many animals in various stages of their lives.

Afterwards we were taken on a small jungle walk where he would explain the medicinal uses of various plants - an absolutely fascinating insight into a dying tradition. We have so much to learn from these indigenous peoples.

Wildlife

Monkeys, frogs, sloth, butterflies, iguanas, snakes, birds - we saw it all.

The wildlife is generally shy, but with a little luck - and a good guide - you may be able to spot something in the bushes / trees.