Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour — Wildlife Hike and Beach Time
A knowledgeable bilingual guide leads a flat, 2-mile loop through Manuel Antonio’s rainforest to beaches and viewpoints. Expect sloths, monkeys, orchids, and a beach break—an efficient half-day mix of wildlife viewing and shore time.
The Experience
Before You Go
Hydrate before you go
Bring at least 1–2 liters of water per person—humidity and walking under the canopy dehydrate quickly.
Wear sturdy shoes
Closed-toe hiking shoes with good grip handle exposed roots and occasional muddy patches far better than sandals.
Respect wildlife boundaries
Do not touch or feed animals; keep cameras zoomed and listen to your guide to avoid stressing wildlife.
Time it for wildlife
Early morning trips increase chances of seeing sloths and monkeys, while midday offers calmer beach time at Third Beach.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Playita (small sheltered cove within the park) for quieter tidepool exploration
- •Third Beach/Playa Espadilla Sur across the headland for longer sand stretches and calmer swimming
Wildlife
- •Two- and three-toed sloths
- •White-faced capuchin and squirrel monkeys
Conservation Note
Visitors are required to stay on trails and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance; avoiding feeding wildlife and reducing plastic waste helps protect animal health and the park’s ecosystems.
Manuel Antonio National Park was created in 1972 and, despite its small size, protects important Pacific lowland rainforest and coastal habitats that support high biodiversity.
What to Bring
Closed-toe hiking shoesEssential
Stability and grip for roots, rocks, and wet trail sections.
Light rain jacket or ponchoEssential
Quick protection during tropical showers, especially in the wet season.
Binoculars or camera with zoom
Helpful for observing sloths, monkeys and canopy birds without disturbing them.
Sun hat and reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Sun protection for exposed beach time after the forest walk.
Common Questions
How long is the guided tour?
The itinerary is about 3–4 hours total, including a roughly 2-mile loop through the park, a snack break, and leisure time at the beach.
Do I need a park entrance fee or ticket?
Yes—Manuel Antonio is a protected park with an entrance fee collected at the gate; your operator will confirm ticket logistics and whether entry is included in the booking.
Is the tour suitable for children and strollers?
The tour is described as accessible to families, but trails have roots and some steps; strollers may be limited to certain sections—check with the operator about infant seats and accessibility arrangements.
What wildlife am I likely to see?
Common sightings include two- and three-toed sloths, white-faced capuchin or squirrel monkeys, a variety of tropical birds, iguanas, and small reptiles—sightings aren’t guaranteed but are frequent with a knowledgeable guide.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Quepos, Puntarenas
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; requires walking ~2 miles on mostly flat but uneven trails.
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