Manatee Sanctuary Laguna Guerrero
A sanctuary dedicated to manatee conservation, offering a unique chance to meet Daniel, a rescued manatee, and learn about protecting these gentle gia...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Higher chance of seeing manatees
Manatee Sanctuary Laguna Guerrero
Best Time
Higher chance of seeing manatees
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sanctuary dedicated to manatee conservation, offering a unique chance to meet Daniel, a rescued manatee, and learn about protecting these gentle giants.
"Absolutely fabulous experience! Volunteers there were very friendly and very enthusiastic about what they do for Daniel."
🎯 Be Patient for Sightings
Manatees are wild! Don't expect guaranteed sightings. Enjoy the educational aspect and support the cause. :manatee:
💰 Support Conservation Efforts
Your entrance fee and any donations directly aid manatee protection. Every bit helps! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Meet Daniel, the Resident Manatee
Laguna Guerrero
Encounter Daniel, a rescued manatee who freely roams the lagoon. Learn his story and observe his gentle nature.
Educational Insights from Devoted Staff
Sanctuary Visitor Area
Engage with passionate volunteers who share in-depth knowledge about manatee conservation and their ecosystem.
Explore the Tranquil Laguna Guerrero
Laguna Guerrero
Experience the serene beauty of Laguna Guerrero, a protected natural area vital for manatees and migratory birds.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Manatee Sightings
Support a Worthy Cause
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Be Patient for Sightings
Manatees are wild! Don't expect guaranteed sightings. Enjoy the educational aspect and support the cause. +1 :manatee:
💰 Support Conservation Efforts
Your entrance fee and any donations directly aid manatee protection. Every bit helps! :moneybag:
🚗 Plan Your Journey
The sanctuary is a bit of a drive. Consider combining it with other local attractions in Jonuta. :car:
📚 Learn from Volunteers
The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions and soak up the information! :books:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Be Patient for Sightings
Manatees are wild! Don't expect guaranteed sightings. Enjoy the educational aspect and support the cause. +1 :manatee:
💰 Support Conservation Efforts
Your entrance fee and any donations directly aid manatee protection. Every bit helps! :moneybag:
🚗 Plan Your Journey
The sanctuary is a bit of a drive. Consider combining it with other local attractions in Jonuta. :car:
📚 Learn from Volunteers
The staff are incredibly knowledgeable and passionate. Ask questions and soak up the information! :books:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors often praise the sanctuary for its educational value and the passionate dedication of its volunteers. The opportunity to interact with Daniel, the rescued manatee, is a highlight for many. However, some note that sightings are not guaranteed as manatees are wild animals, and the sanctuary is a small, local attraction.
"Absolutely fabulous experience! Volunteers there were very friendly and very enthusiastic about what they do for Daniel. They told us his story and we learned so much about manatees. You can also feed Daniel with veggies. We paid 56 pesos/person. Would be great if you support this organization by coming to see Daniel. He is so cute and you will enjoy the visit for sure!"
Sarka Pavlovicova
"Long drive to small sanctuary. Sadly for nothing. There were no manatee’s. (Of course wild animal) which are feed and sort of protected by the sanctuary. They do a good job but for tourist not much to see."
Jurgen Hesselink
"Very interesting explanations of the devoted staff how they protect the Manatees.
Just don't expect to see any, remember they are wild animals and come and go ay they please."
Katharina Gassmann
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located in the Los Pajaros village in Jonuta, Tabasco. It's about an hour's drive from Palenque. +1 Many visitors rent a car or hire a taxi from nearby towns like Palenque or Chetumal. The drive itself can be scenic, passing through local landscapes.
While it's a bit of a drive, signage should guide you to the Los Pajaros village. It's recommended to use GPS or ask locals for directions once you're in the Jonuta area.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility for exploring Jonuta and reaching the sanctuary. Taxis are also available, but agree on the fare beforehand.
Public transport directly to the sanctuary might be limited. It's often easier to arrange private transport or join a tour that includes this destination.
The drive from Chetumal to Laguna Guerrero can take approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, depending on traffic and road conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is typically around 56 pesos per person, though this can vary. It's a small price to pay to support a vital conservation effort.
Advance booking is generally not required. You can usually purchase tickets upon arrival at the sanctuary.
Opening hours can vary, and it's best to check locally or with your accommodation. Many visitors report visiting during daylight hours.
While there isn't a strict schedule, volunteers often engage with Daniel during visitor hours, especially when feeding him vegetables. This is a good time to see him.
Information on discounts is not widely available. The current fee is considered very reasonable for the educational experience and conservation support provided.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can expect to see Daniel, a rescued manatee who is free to roam the lagoon. You'll also learn about manatee conservation from dedicated volunteers.
Manatees are wild animals, so sightings are not guaranteed. Daniel is free to come and go as he pleases. Patience and a bit of luck are key! +1
Yes, you can often feed Daniel with vegetables provided by the sanctuary. This is a highlight for many visitors and a way to support him.
A visit typically lasts 1-2 hours, depending on how long you spend interacting with volunteers and observing Daniel.
Yes, it's a great educational experience for children. They can learn about marine life and conservation in an engaging way.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo opportunities are when Daniel is near the viewing areas or during feeding times. Capture the interaction between visitors and the manatee.
Yes, photography and videography are generally allowed. Be mindful of other visitors and the wildlife.
A telephoto lens can be useful if Daniel is further out in the lagoon, but a standard camera or smartphone is usually sufficient for close-up interactions.
No specific restrictions are usually mentioned, but always be respectful of the animals and the sanctuary staff.
Morning or late afternoon light can be ideal for photography, offering softer light and potentially more active manatees.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Practical tips for families: Bring snacks and drinks, as options at the sanctuary might be limited. Wear comfortable shoes as you'll be walking around. Be prepared for the possibility of not seeing Daniel, but emphasize the learning experience about manatees and their habitat regardless.
eco-conscious Travelers
This sanctuary prioritizes the well-being of the manatees by allowing them freedom in their natural environment, rather than keeping them in captivity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Understanding Manatee Conservation
Volunteers are deeply committed to educating the public about the challenges these gentle giants face, including habitat loss and boat strikes. Visitors play a vital role in this mission. By visiting the sanctuary, you contribute financially to their ongoing efforts. The staff are eager to share their knowledge, explaining the manatees' diet, behavior, and the importance of protecting their natural environment. This hands-on educational experience makes the visit both enjoyable and impactful, fostering a deeper appreciation for marine wildlife.
It's important to remember that these are wild animals. While Daniel is a resident, he is not in captivity. He has the freedom to come and go, which means sightings are never guaranteed. This approach prioritizes the manatee's well-being and natural behavior over a guaranteed tourist spectacle.
The Experience of Visiting Daniel
The sanctuary itself is described as a 'small sanctuary' by some, and it's important to manage expectations. It's not a large zoo or aquarium, but rather a dedicated space focused on one manatee's well-being and public education.
While some reviews mention that it might not be 'worth the effort' for a long journey if you're not seeing a manatee, the consensus among those who do have a positive experience is that it's a worthwhile visit for its educational value and the chance to support a good cause.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit