Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour: Wildlife Walk & Beach Visit
Walk shaded rainforest trails with a bilingual guide, spot sloths and monkeys, then relax on one of Costa Rica’s best beaches. This 2–3 hour guided tour is ideal for wildlife viewers and casual hikers who want a compact, interpretive park experience.
The Experience
Before You Go
Start early
Book the 7:00 a.m. slot to catch animal activity and avoid crowds; wildlife sightings drop as the day heats up.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes
Trails have roots, rocks and occasional mud — trail runners or hiking shoes give better grip than sandals.
Carry water and insect repellent
High humidity and tropical insects are constant; bring at least 1 liter and apply repellent before entering the forest.
Respect beach currents
Beach No. 3 is beautiful but has strong currents; swim only within designated areas and follow guide instructions.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Headlands near Punta Catedral for quiet tidepools and panoramic offshore views
- •Mangrove estuary channels west of the main trail where wading birds gather at low tide
Wildlife
- •Three-toed sloth
- •White-faced capuchin (squirrel) monkey
Conservation Note
Visitor management keeps group sizes small and enforces trail rules to protect fragile forest understory and coastal nesting sites; use reef-safe sunscreen and pack out waste.
Manuel Antonio was established as a national park in 1972 to protect a compact but ecologically diverse stretch of Pacific coastal rainforest and marine habitats near Quepos.
What to Bring
Sturdy hiking shoesEssential
Provide traction on root-covered and sometimes muddy trails.
Binoculars or spotting scopeEssential
Essential for observing canopy birds, sloths and monkeys from trails or headlands.
Light rain jacket
Useful during sudden tropical showers, especially in the wet season.
Sun hat and reef-safe sunscreenEssential
Protects against strong equatorial sun during beach time and exposed trail sections.
Common Questions
How long is the tour on the trails?
The guided walk through the park lasts about 2–3 hours at a slow pace, including wildlife observation stops and time to reach the beach.
Is the beach stop safe for swimming?
The tour includes one hour at Beach No. 3; swimming is allowed but currents can be strong — follow your guide’s safety advice and swim in designated spots.
Are children and seniors able to join?
Yes; the tour is rated easy and family-friendly, but it’s not recommended for those with serious spinal or cardiovascular conditions, and some short climbs may challenge mobility-impaired visitors.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include two- and three-toed sloths, white-faced capuchin and squirrel monkeys, toucans, and a variety of coastal birds; sightings are never guaranteed but morning tours increase chances.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
2–3 hours
Location
Quepos, Puntarenas
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for casual walkers who can manage uneven ground and short climbs; not strenuous.
Ready to Explore Quepos?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
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