El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary
An ethical sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating crocodiles and other native wildlife, offering educational tours.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Animals are often more active
El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary
Best Time
Animals are often more active
Highlights
Must-see attractions
An ethical sanctuary dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating crocodiles and other native wildlife, offering educational tours.
"A truly ethical sanctuary with passionate guides, offering an educational and enjoyable experience for all."
🚗 Plan Your Ride
The road is bumpy! Request return rides early or ask about transport options. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in the mangroves. Apply repellent before you arrive. :smilingfacewith3hearts:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Crocodile Encounters
Sanctuary grounds
Observe rescued crocodiles of various sizes, learning about their rehabilitation journeys and conservation efforts.
Diverse Native Wildlife
Sanctuary grounds
See turtles, coatis, macaws, and other rescued animals, each with a unique story of survival and care.
Passionate Guided Tours
Throughout the sanctuary
Engage with knowledgeable guides, often veterinarians, who share insights into conservation and animal welfare.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Navigating the Bumpy Road
Embrace the Educational Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Plan Your Ride
The road is bumpy! Request return rides early or ask about transport options. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in the mangroves. Apply repellent before you arrive. :smilingfacewith3hearts:
💧 Bring Water & Hat
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun during your visit. :waterwave: :sunwith_face:
💳 Payment Options
They accept credit cards, not just cash. :credit_card:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Plan Your Ride
The road is bumpy! Request return rides early or ask about transport options. :car:
🦟 Bug Spray is Key
Mosquitoes are prevalent, especially in the mangroves. Apply repellent before you arrive. :smilingfacewith3hearts:
💧 Bring Water & Hat
Stay hydrated and protected from the sun during your visit. :waterwave: :sunwith_face:
💳 Payment Options
They accept credit cards, not just cash. :credit_card:
🔔 Ring the Bell
Don't forget to ring the bell upon arrival to announce your presence. :bell:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary for its ethical approach to animal rescue and rehabilitation, highlighting the passionate and knowledgeable guides who offer insightful educational tours. The sanctuary's commitment to conservation is a major draw, providing a meaningful experience for all ages. However, the journey involves navigating a bumpy, unpaved road, and visitors should plan their transportation carefully.
"We appreciated that this is a very ethical sanctuary. We booked an English-guided tour, which was interesting and educational. Our guide was a vet who cares a lot about the animals and conservation, and he answered all of our questions thoroughly. They rehabilitate rescued animals with the goal of releasing them back into the wild, or provide lifelong care for the ones that can’t survive on their own.
We saw crocodiles, turtles, coatis, a raccoon, macaws, and learned about their stories. Very enjoyable experience!"
Gina Yao
"I learned so much! Alfredo was a super knowledgeable English speaking tour guide (and veterinarian!) and is passionate about conservation. If you like animals or are looking for something to do with kids, this is a great hour and a half.
Note to tourists:
- yes, they take credit cards, not cash only
- the road up there is insanely bumpy and u developed so some uber drivers don’t want to do it. If you request your return ride halfway through the tour, that’s a smart idea. It takes time and sometimes they cancel, but it’ll happen. Bring water. Enjoy your time!"
Catherine Ford
"Wonderful experience right here in Bucerías. I’ve been visiting the area for years and just learned of this wonderful sanctuary. What a great way to learn about the crocodiles and other local wildlife. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining. We learned a lot and had a lot of fun!"
Kelly Salazar
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The sanctuary is located off the highway and requires navigating an unpaved, bumpy road. While ride-sharing services like Uber can be used, some drivers may be reluctant due to the road conditions. It's advisable to arrange your return trip in advance, potentially requesting it halfway through your tour, as cancellations can occur. The sanctuary may also be able to assist with transportation arrangements. +1
Yes, the road leading to El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary is described as 'insanely bumpy and undeveloped' by visitors. If you are driving yourself, be prepared for rough terrain.
You can attempt to take an Uber, but be aware that some drivers may refuse the trip due to the unpaved road. It's a good idea to have a backup plan for your return journey. +1
To ensure you have a ride back, it's recommended to request your return Uber about halfway through your tour. This gives you time to find a driver. If you have trouble, the sanctuary staff can often help you call a taxi. +1
Information on direct public transport to El Cora is limited. Given the unpaved road access, it's generally recommended to use private transportation like taxis or ride-sharing services, or to inquire about transport options with the sanctuary itself.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While specific prices aren't always listed, visitors report that El Cora accepts credit cards, not just cash. It's always a good idea to confirm current admission fees directly with the sanctuary.
Advance booking is generally not required, but it's recommended to check their official channels or social media for any updates. Arriving and inquiring about tours upon entry is common.
Opening hours can vary, but tours are typically offered during daylight hours. It's best to contact the sanctuary directly or check their social media for the most up-to-date information on tour times.
Yes, guided tours are highly recommended and are a significant part of the experience. These tours are led by knowledgeable veterinarians and biologists who provide educational insights into the animals and conservation efforts.
Contrary to some assumptions, visitors have confirmed that El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary does accept credit cards, not just cash.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
At El Cora, you can see rescued crocodiles, turtles, coatis, raccoons, macaws, and other native species. Each animal has a story of rescue and rehabilitation. +1
Yes, El Cora is a great place for families. The guided tours are engaging and educational, with guides skilled at keeping children interested and informed about the animals and conservation.
A guided tour at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary usually lasts about 1 to 1.5 hours, providing a comprehensive yet manageable experience.
El Cora is dedicated to rehabilitating rescued wildlife with the goal of releasing them back into the wild. For animals that cannot be released, they provide lifelong care. They also focus on educating visitors about wildlife protection.
While El Cora is a sanctuary focused on rehabilitation, guided tours provide close observation and educational insights. Direct interaction is limited to ensure the animals' well-being and rehabilitation process.
📸 📸 Photography
Yes, photography is generally allowed at El Cora Crocodile Sanctuary. Visitors often share photos of the crocodiles, macaws, and other animals they encounter. 
Early morning or late afternoon can offer softer lighting for photography. Observing the animals during feeding times, if applicable, can also lead to more active and photogenic moments.
While specific restrictions are not widely mentioned, it's always best to be respectful of the animals and avoid using flash photography that might disturb them. Follow any guidance provided by your tour guide.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient for capturing memorable shots. If you're interested in wildlife photography, a zoom lens can be helpful for getting closer shots of the animals from a safe distance.
There are no specific mentions of drone usage at El Cora. It's advisable to check with the sanctuary directly regarding their policy on drone photography to ensure compliance and avoid disturbing the wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Expect to see a variety of animals beyond crocodiles, including turtles, macaws, and coatis, each with a story to tell. The educational aspect is a major plus, offering a fun way for kids to learn about wildlife and the importance of protecting natural habitats. Remember to bring mosquito repellent and hats for comfort.
🌍 Ethical Travelers
You'll appreciate that the animals are there because they need care, with the goal of release or lifelong sanctuary. The knowledgeable guides, often veterinarians, provide deep insights into the conservation challenges and the sanctuary's vital work. This is an opportunity to support a cause while having an enriching experience.
🚗 Adventurous Explorers
Be prepared for this rustic access and plan your transportation accordingly. The reward is a unique and educational experience away from the typical tourist crowds, offering a chance to connect with nature and conservation efforts in a meaningful way.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Mission of El Cora: Conservation and Rehabilitation
The sanctuary is staffed by passionate professionals, including veterinarians and marine biologists, who dedicate themselves to the well-being of the animals. They provide specialized care, from medical treatment to ensuring animals can thrive independently. For those animals that cannot be released due to injury or domestication, El Cora offers a safe haven and lifelong care, ensuring they are not exploited.
Visitors often express appreciation for this ethical approach, noting that the focus is on the animals' welfare and conservation education rather than entertainment. The tours highlight the challenges faced by local wildlife and the importance of protecting ecosystems like the mangroves.
Navigating the Journey: Road Conditions and Transport
Many visitors have noted that Uber drivers, and potentially other ride-sharing services, may be hesitant or refuse to complete the journey due to the road conditions. To mitigate this, a common tip is to request your return ride about halfway through your tour. This gives you ample time to secure transportation for your departure. If you encounter difficulties, the sanctuary staff are often willing to assist in calling a local taxi.
For those driving themselves, be prepared for a rough ride. It's also wise to bring water and wear a hat, as the area can get sunny and the journey can be a bit arduous. Planning your transport in advance is key to a smooth visit.
An Educational Adventure for All Ages
These guides are adept at making the information accessible and engaging for all ages. They share the individual stories of the rescued animals, explaining their rehabilitation processes and the importance of their conservation. Children, in particular, seem to benefit from these engaging tours, with guides skilled at keeping them captivated.
Beyond crocodiles, visitors can expect to see a variety of other native species, including turtles, coatis, macaws, and raccoons. The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to learn about the biodiversity of the region and the ongoing efforts to protect it.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit