Iguanario Archundia

If you are looking for a truly unusual corner of wildlife, then Iguanario Archundia is a must-see on your itinerary through sunny Mexico. This amazing place is a private reptile sanctuary where hundreds of iguanas live in conditions as close as possible to their natural habitat.

Located near the city center of Manzanillo, this wildlife refuge has turned into a real oasis amidst urban development. The sanctuary doesn't just display animals; it plays a vital role in preserving regional biodiversity, offering guests educational and ethical ecotourism.

Visitors can see huge lizards basking on tree branches or strolling leisurely through the grounds. The Iguanario highlights the fragility of the local ecosystem and offers a chance to connect with the world of fauna without the barriers of traditional zoos.

To make your visit as comfortable as possible, we recommend checking the sanctuary's current contact details. You can contact the administration or clarify the route to the facility using the following information:

The main adventure here is an up-close encounter with the reptiles. You can observe the habits of hundreds of iguanas that feel like the rightful owners here. Spacious areas with lush vegetation and ponds create the perfect tropical forest atmosphere, allowing tourists to take stunning photographs.

For many guests, the most memorable moment is the interactive feeding. Under the watchful eye of the staff, you can offer the iguanas a treat, which sparks genuine interest in both children and adults. This is a great opportunity to see the reptiles at arm's length and even take a unique selfie against the backdrop of exotic greenery.

Additionally, educational tours are held here, sharing information about the various species of reptiles living in the country. The sanctuary's calm and friendly atmosphere is perfect for leisurely walks and thoughtful wildlife observation in the heart of civilization.

Finding your way to the sanctuary is easy, as it is located in the Valle Dorado neighborhood, very close to the city center. If you are downtown, a taxi ride will take only 10–15 minutes, making it a very accessible spot for a short outing.

For those who prefer public transport, local buses regularly run toward this area, with stops within walking distance of the entrance. You can also arrive by rental car — parking is available directly on-site for visitors.

To avoid getting lost, it is recommended to use navigation for the address: C. 21 de Marzo 521. A short drive from the busy streets will quickly lead you to the gates of this exotic refuge, where nature meets the city.

Iguanario Archundia is an inspiring example of how personal initiative can grow into a significant ecological project. Founded as a private effort to protect local reptiles, the sanctuary has over the years become home to hundreds of individuals that found refuge here from the dangers of the urban environment.

Interestingly, it was originally the life's work of a single family striving to preserve the iguana population in the state of Colima. Over time, the place gained popularity not only among locals but also with international tourists, becoming one of the most authentic and heartwarming attractions in the region.

The fact that the reptiles live here in open conditions and actively reproduce confirms the success of the sanctuary's mission. This project clearly demonstrates how important harmonious coexistence between humans and wildlife is, and how caring for one species helps preserve the biodiversity of the entire area.

To leisurely explore all the enclosures and enjoy the sanctuary's atmosphere, an average visitor will need 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time to walk around the grounds, observe the inhabitants' behavior, and take some vivid souvenir photos.

If you plan to join a tour or simply want to spend more time watching how the reptiles interact with each other, you might want to allow a bit more time. A relaxed pace will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the world of nature without any rush.

The sanctuary welcomes guests daily; however, it's worth noting that operating hours depend on the specific day of the week. It is recommended to plan your visit for the first half of the day, as the Iguanario closes quite early on weekdays.

Current Schedule:
Monday – Thursday: 11:00 AM – 2:00 PM
Friday: 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM
Saturday: 11:00 AM – 4:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM – 3:00 PM

After meeting the amazing reptiles, it's worth turning your attention to other interesting places in the vicinity. Exploring the surrounding locations will allow you to better feel the local flavor and see the city from different angles — from panoramic viewpoints to cozy spots for relaxation.