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🦥 Travel Guide to Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

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Explore Costa Rica’s #1 National Park for Wildlife, Beaches & Ecotourism

🌴 Why Visit Manuel Antonio National Park?

Tucked away on Costa Rica’s scenic Central Pacific Coast, Manuel Antonio National Park (Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio) stands as one of the country’s most iconic and biologically diverse travel destinations. Though it’s the smallest national park in Costa Rica—spanning just under 20 square kilometers—it offers a world-class experience where lush rainforest meets white-sand beaches and rich marine biodiversity.

Renowned for its stunning natural beauty and accessibility, Manuel Antonio attracts eco-conscious travelers, nature lovers, families, and adventure seekers year-round. Whether you’re hiking jungle trails, spotting sloths in the treetops, or swimming in calm turquoise waters, this protected paradise is a bucket-list destination.

Regularly ranked among the top national parks in Central America, Manuel Antonio is celebrated for its incredible biodiversity, environmental conservation, and its perfect balance of relaxation and adventure.

📍 Where Is Manuel Antonio National Park Located?

  • Province: Puntarenas

  • Nearest Town: Quepos

  • Distance from San José: Approx. 157 km (3 to 3.5 hours by car)

  • Region: Central Pacific Coast of Costa Rica

The park sits just south of Quepos, a lively coastal town known for its friendly local vibe, marina, and abundance of eco-lodges, boutique hotels, and restaurants catering to visitors exploring Manuel Antonio.

🚗 How to Get to Manuel Antonio
By Car:

Road Conditions: Fully paved roads—no 4x4 required.

Route Tips: After Quepos, expect winding, narrow roads. Drive with caution and allow extra time.

Parking: Beware of scammers flagging you down with false claims of full lots. Legitimate parking is available just 150 meters from the main park entrance, near Playa Espadilla Norte. Look for marked signs and official personnel.

By Public Bus:

From San José to Quepos: Buses leave frequently from the Tracopa Terminal.

From Quepos to the park entrance: Local buses run every 30 minutes between 5:30 AM and 9:30 PM, stopping just a short walk away via the Beach Trail.

🕒 Manuel Antonio Park Hours & Entrance Info


🗓️ Operating Hours:

  • Open: Wednesday to Monday, 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM

  • Closed: Tuesdays for conservation

  • Beach Access Ends: 3:00 PM

  • Final Exit: All visitors must leave by 4:00 PM

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💵 Entry Fees (2025):

  • Adults (non-residents): $16 USD + VAT

  • Children (ages 2–12): $5 USD

  • Infants (under 2): Free

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🔐 How to Buy Tickets:

  • Tickets must be purchased online in advance via the official SINAC website.

  • No on-site ticket sales available.

  • During high season (Dec–Apr, holidays), booking is essential to secure your spot.

🦥 Wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park

Home to one of the richest ecosystems in Costa Rica, this park offers wildlife sightings that rival the country’s largest reserves. It boasts:

109 species of mammals, including:

  • White-faced capuchin monkeys

  • Howler monkeys

  • Squirrel monkeys

  • Two- and three-toed sloths

  • Raccoons and coatis

184 bird species, such as:

  • Toucans

  • Motmots

  • Tanagers

  • Hawks and hummingbirds

Plus: iguanas, basilisks, tree frogs, agoutis, butterflies, and seasonal sightings of whales and dolphins along the coast.

📸 Tip: Bring a zoom lens or binoculars for the best wildlife photos, especially early in the morning when animals are most active.

🥾 Best Hiking Trails in Manuel Antonio

Whether you're a casual walker or an avid nature hiker, Manuel Antonio’s well-maintained trail network offers a scenic and accessible experience for all ages.

  • Main Trail => Leads to viewpoints and beaches (45 mins)

  • Sendero Universal (Sloth Trail) =>   Wheelchair-accessible with Braille signage (45 mins)

  • La Catarata Trail => Small waterfall, dense jungle (30 mins)

  • Punta Catedral Loop => Spectacular coastal views, wildlife (1 hour)

  • Sendero Playa Gemelas - Puerto Escondido - Congo Trail =>  Remote beaches, scenic cliffs (2 hours)

🌄 Pro Tip: Start your hikes by 7:00 - 8:00 AM for cooler weather and better wildlife sightings.

🏖️ Beaches Inside Manuel Antonio National Park

One of the park’s top draws is its pristine, picture-perfect beaches—accessible only by foot once inside the reserve.

🌊 Top Beaches:

  • Playa Manuel Antonio: The most famous beach—calm, crescent-shaped bay with turquoise water perfect for swimming.

  • Playa Espadilla Sur: Less crowded, backed by lush jungle. Ideal for peaceful relaxation.

  • Playa Gemelas: “Twin” hidden beaches with fewer visitors and raw beauty.

⚠️ Note: There are no lifeguards on duty. Swim with caution, especially at Playa Gemelas.

🛠️ Facilities & Visitor Services

Manuel Antonio National Park is equipped for comfort while maintaining its eco-conscious philosophy.

  • Restrooms: Located at the entrance and along key trails

  • Cafeteria: Light meals, drinks, and snacks near the trailhead

  • Lockers: Available (~$10/day) to store bags and valuables

  • Trash Policy: Strict “Leave No Trace” rule—single-use plastics discouraged

  • Food Restrictions: Outside food may be limited—check current park signage

✅ Travel Tips for Visiting Manuel Antonio

✔️ Buy tickets online in advance
✔️ Arrive early—best time for wildlife and fewer crowds
✔️ Pack essentials:

  • Sunscreen (reef-safe)

  • Refillable water bottle

  • Rain poncho

  • Bug spray

  • Binoculars and a camera

🚫 Don’t feed the animals—this is harmful and illegal
🚶‍♂️ Stay on marked trails—to protect both you and the ecosystem

🔍 Top-Rated Tour Options:
1. Manuel Antonio Group Tour

Affordable and social

  • Led by a certified naturalist guide

  • Great for first-time visitors

  • From ~$59 USD per person

2. Private Guided Tour

  • Ideal for families, photographers, or wildlife enthusiasts

  • Customized experience

  • Flexible pace and itinerary

✅ Look for tours that include park entry in the price for added convenience.

🎟️ Book your Manuel Antonio Tour here >

🌱 Supporting Sustainable Tourism in Manuel Antonio

Help preserve this ecological paradise for future generations by following eco-travel best practices:

  • Use reusable water bottles and eco-friendly gear

  • Avoid single-use plastics

  • Stay on designated trails

  • Never feed or touch wildlife

  • Support local eco-certified guides and businesses

Your actions matter—travel responsibly and help protect Costa Rica’s natural heritage.

🌟 Final Thoughts: Why Manuel Antonio National Park Is a Must-See in Costa Rica

From thrilling wildlife encounters and tropical forest hikes to crystal-clear beaches and rich cultural charm, Manuel Antonio National Park delivers an unforgettable Costa Rican adventure.

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Whether you’re planning a day trip from San José, a multi-day eco-retreat, or looking for the best things to do in Manuel Antonio, this incredible park offers something for every traveler.

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🌍 Don’t just visit Costa Rica—experience it at its wildest, most beautiful, and most unforgettable. Make Manuel Antonio part of your journey today.

©2010 by Costa Rica Jade Tours

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