Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Walk: Best Wildlife & Beach Guided Tour
Spend four hours with a naturalist guide through Manuel Antonio’s rainforest and beaches. Expect sloths, monkeys, toucans and guided spotting-scope sessions, plus time to relax on the park’s main beach.
The Experience
Before You Go
Go early for active wildlife
Book the first morning walk to catch peak animal activity and cooler conditions; mornings also have fewer visitors on trails.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails have exposed roots and slippery rock near the coast—trail runners or light hiking shoes with traction help.
Bring binoculars or use the spotting scope
A compact pair of binoculars improves sightings of canopy birds and distant macaws when the guide can’t pull the telescope close.
Respect distance rules
Do not approach or feed wildlife; guides enforce minimal disturbance to protect animals and other visitors.
Local Knowledge
Hidden Gems
- •Tidepool areas near the smaller coves reveal crabs and small fish at low tide
- •Early-morning viewpoint on the Quepos headland for unobstructed macaw flybys
Wildlife
- •White-faced capuchin (Cebus capucinus)
- •Two- and three-toed sloths
Conservation Note
The park emphasizes staying on trails, avoiding wildlife feeding and supporting local guides; ongoing efforts focus on habitat protection and managing visitor impact.
Founded in 1972, Manuel Antonio was created to conserve coastal rainforest and marine environments on Costa Rica’s Central Pacific coast as tourism and local conservation efforts grew.
What to Bring
Sturdy trail shoesEssential
Provides traction on wet roots and coastal rock while keeping feet comfortable for beach and forest sections.
Light rain jacketEssential
Quick showers are common in the wet season; a packable jacket keeps you dry without overheating.
Insect repellentEssential
Reduces bites in shaded forest areas and during the rainy season when mosquitoes are more active.
Compact binoculars or camera with zoom
Helps spot and photograph canopy birds, monkeys and distant marine wildlife during telescope breaks.
Common Questions
How long is the guided walk?
The tour runs about four hours total, including guided trail time and a short beach break at or near Playa Manuel Antonio.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
Common sightings include white-faced capuchins, howler monkeys, two- and three-toed sloths, toucans, iguanas and a variety of shore and forest birds, though sightings vary by season and time of day.
Is the walk suitable for children or mobility-impaired visitors?
The route is considered easy and the operator notes wheelchair accessibility for some areas and stroller access; check pickup and trail specifics with the provider before booking.
What is included in the tour price?
The ride includes hotel pickup/drop-off in the Manuel Antonio/Quepos area, bottled water, snacks, a guide, and use of a spotting scope; park entrance is included per the tour description.
Book This Experience
Check AvailabilityDuration
3–4 hours
Location
Quepos, Puntarenas
Difficulty
easy
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; involves short uneven trails with low elevation change and pauses for observation.
Ready to Explore Quepos?
Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.
Check Availability & Book Now