What’s Happening in Manzanillo from Punta Uva to the Wildlife Refuge

And Why We Don’t Sell Property There

Published

2 hours ago

Playa Grande, Manzanillo

🌿 A Unique Natural Treasure

Between the beaches of Punta Uva and Manzanillo on Costa Rica’s southern Caribbean coast lies one of the country’s most precious ecological zones — the Gandoca-Manzanillo National Wildlife Refuge (REGAMA). This area is home to rare ecosystems such as mangrove swamps, tropical rainforests, seagrass beds, coral reefs, and coastal lagoons. Officially protected since 1985, it was recognized internationally in 1995 when it was declared a Ramsar Site — meaning it’s one of the world’s most important wetlands.

But REGAMA is more than forest and beach. It’s home to jaguars, sloths, caimans, endangered sea turtles, toucans, colorful frogs, and hundreds of bird and butterfly species. The refuge serves as a nesting site for marine turtles and provides vital habitat for threatened animals. It is a living museum of biodiversity, where every tree and stream plays a role in the health of the planet.

🛑 The Problem

Despite its protected status, this region has been under increasing pressure from development:

In the 1990s, government agencies mistakenly granted land titles inside the refuge.
In 2014, Law 9223 removed parts of Punta Uva and Manzanillo from protected status.
In 2017, SINAC (National Conservation System) excluded over a dozen wetlands and forests from conservation zones and handed administration over to the Talamanca Municipality.
In 2024, SINAC officially reduced the designated wetland area by 45% — from 165 hectares to 73 — without technical justification.

These actions have triggered concern from conservationists, residents, and international observers. In March 2025, Costa Rica’s Constitutional Court (Sala IV) suspended all construction and logging permits in the region. In parallel, Deputy Ariel Robles filed a formal complaint to the Ramsar Convention regarding the degradation of this internationally protected area.

❗ Why It Matters

When wetlands are drained and forests cleared, we lose more than plants and animals. We lose natural water filters, flood protection, and vital carbon sinks. These ecosystems regulate our climate, protect our coasts, and sustain human life. REGAMA is not just Costa Rica’s heritage — it’s a gift to the world.

🏠 Why We Don’t Sell Property There

Legal uncertainty: Many lots may be reclassified as state-protected land (PNE), putting property rights at risk.
Buyer risk: Building permits may be revoked, and landowners could face lawsuits or demolition orders.
Ethical responsibility: We respect Costa Rica’s laws and ecosystems. Nature isn’t a commodity — it’s a legacy to protect.

🔎 What is the Ramsar Convention?

The Ramsar Convention is an international treaty signed by more than 170 countries to preserve wetlands — areas where water sustains life. These ecosystems are critical for wildlife, clean water, and climate stability.

Gandoca-Manzanillo was declared a Ramsar Site in 1995, recognizing its global importance. Its preservation is not optional — it’s our responsibility.

📚 Official Sources:

Sala Constitucional (Sala IV): poder-judicial.go.cr
Ramsar Convention: www.ramsar.org
Semanario Universidad: semanariouniversidad.com
Delfino.cr

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