Manuel Antonio National Park, a natural jewel of Costa Rica

You know those places you see on postcards and think they can’t be real? Well, Manuel Antonio is like that. Born in 1972 thanks to the vision and passion of Costa Ricans who saw in this natural wonder a treasure that should be preserved forever, the Manuel Antonio National Park stands out, not for being the largest in the country (in fact, it is the smallest), but for hosting in its 683 hectares a world of unparalleled life and beauty.

What to see and do in Manuel Antonio National Park?

If you’ve heard of Manuel Antonio National Park, you probably imagine dreamy beaches and crystal clear waters, but there’s much more to it than that! Dive with me in a journey full of biodiversity, mysterious trails and… a lot of surprises!

1. Guided tours and adventure activities

2. Animal sighting

The main charm of this park, beyond its beaches, is the rich wildlife. Although it has become the most visited park in Costa Rica, you can still see many species.

With more than 350 species of birds and 110 species of mammals, your chances of encountering playful monkeys or sloths are high.

But remember, always with respect: this is their home, and we are mere guests.

Beware of surprise visitors: No, we are not talking about other tourists. Raccoons and monkeys, attracted by the visitors’ food, can get into mischief. So, remember not to feed them and take care of your belongings.

3. Hiking and the enchantment of Nature

100% of visitors come here looking for a connection with nature. With 12 trails to explore, there is something for everyone:

• El Manglar Trail: Accessible and perfect for everyone, this trail will take you through a unique experience, connecting with the Seasonal Waterfall Trail and the Lazy Trail.
• Seasonal Waterfall Trail: A surprise only during the rainy season.
• Lazy Trail: Do you want to feel at the heart of the park? This trail is a gem.
• Punta Catedral trail: Get ready for heart-stopping views and a dose of cardio with its stairs.
• Twin Beaches Trail: Double beach, double fun, right?
• Sendero Miradores trail: The views are the reward after those steps.
• And more… Explore the trails Playa Espadilla Sur, Playa Manuel Antonio, Puerto Escondido, La Trampa and Los Congos.

4. Visit the beaches of Manuel Antonio Park: a paradise on Earth.

Fauna

Get ready to discover some of the species that inhabit this paradisiacal corner:

1. Fascinating mammals 🦝

• Mapache: These cunning nocturnal animals may surprise you while searching for food on the beach.
• Pizote (Coati): It is not uncommon to see these curious animals exploring in search of insects or fruits.
• Guatusa: This herbivore, similar to a rodent, hides in the thicket.
• Lazy: Both the two-toed and the three-toed are the slow stars of the park.
• Monkeys: Three types! The playful carablanca, the boisterous congo and the adorable marmoset, the latter in danger of extinction.

2. Birds that fall in love 🦜

• Tucancillo: With its colorful beak, it is a delight for bird lovers.
• Pelican or Buchon: Dominating the sky and the sea, it is common to see them dive fishing.
• Guaco: With its distinctive call, it is always on alert.
• Martin Green Fisherman: This quick little bird is an expert fish hunter.

3. Reptiles and more 🦎

• Iguanas and Garrobos: They enjoy the sun on the rocks and trails.
• Snakes: Don’t worry! Most of them are harmless and just want to continue on their way.

4. From the sea to the sky 🐠

• Marine wildlife ranging from colorful fish such as angelfish to majestic manta rays. If you are lucky, you might even spot dolphins or whales at certain times of the year.

Flora

Have you ever wondered what are those trees and plants that give life and color to the iconic Manuel Antonio National Park? Let me guide you through this botanical tour!

1. Primary Forest: The original essence! 🌳

• Guácimo Colorado: Majestic and robust, it is difficult not to notice.
• Pylon: Known for its resistant wood, it is a pillar of the forest.
• Cedro María: Nothing like the aroma of this cedar!
• Guapinol and Black Guapinol: The latter is endangered, so if you see it, consider yourself lucky!
• Surá: An impressive tree that is home to many birds.
• Lechoso, Madroño and Cenízaro: Emblematic trio that adorns our forest.
• Ceiba: The giant of the forest, its presence is simply majestic.

3. Secondary Forest: Natural regeneration 🌲

• Balsa: Light as air! It is known for its soft wood.
• Peine de Mico: A monkey favorite and, let’s face it, it has a great name.
• Guarumo: Its leaves are a snack for the lazy.
• Capulín Blanco and Garocho: Two beauties that give that special touch to the secondary forest.

3. Coastal guardians: Mangroves 🌾

• Colorado, Botoncillo and Mariquita Mangroves: These species give life to the park’s 18 hectares of mangroves. Did you know that mangroves are vital for many marine species during their early life stages?

4. Beach vegetation: sand and sun! ☀️🌴

• Manzanillo: Beware! Although it is beautiful, it has a poisonous touch.
• Almond tree: Have you seen the green parrots (loras) resting on its branches? It’s a sight to remember.
• Savannah Oak and Coconut: There is nothing like resting under the shade of one of these after a day at the beach.

The charm of visiting Manuel Antonio Park

Imagine dreamy beaches bordered by a vibrant tropical jungle. But not only that, under its waters there are coral reefs ready to be explored by snorkeling. Don’t be surprised if while sunbathing you see a sloth bear stretching in a nearby tree, iguanas basking in the sun or squirrel monkeys playing in the branches. Oh, and don’t forget those colorful crabs that seem to want to compete with the rainbow.

If you like to walk, there is a path in Punta Catedral that is simply majestic. The views it gives you are breathtaking. And speaking of beaches, there is one in particular that you have to visit: Manuel Antonio Beach. With its crescent shape, it looks like something out of a fairy tale. Surrounded by lush greenery on one side and a private cove on the other, it is the perfect setting for a photo (or a thousand).

Not far from there is Cathedral Point, which has its own history. It used to be an island, but nature decided to join it to the mainland with a natural bridge. Now, this bridge separates two incredible beaches: Playa Espadilla Sur and, of course, Playa Manuel Antonio.

In closing, let me tell you that the park is super easy to access from Quepos and is surrounded by lodging and dining options that will complement your experience, so if you’re ready for a pure nature adventure, Manuel Antonio awaits you with open arms!

How to get there?

If you’re planning your trip to the wonderful Manuel Antonio National Park, I’ve got you covered with all the ways to get there. Pack your bag, and let’s go!

1. Private Transportation:.
   • Are you one of those who prefer to travel comfortably and without complications? Then private transportation is for you. Prices range from $160 to $300, depending on how many you are and where you are leaving from. Don’t forget to get in touch for an exact quote, we are here to help!
2. Minivans (semi-private):.
   • There is a super comfortable and air-conditioned option: minivans. They offer door-to-door service from many points in Costa Rica and range from $45 to $60 per person. If that sounds good to you, check Interbus for details.
3. Nacional flights:
   • Would you like to fly in and enjoy panoramic views? There are 5 direct daily flights between Quepos (XQP) and San Jose (SJO), with prices ranging between $75 and $95: Sansa, AeroBell and SkyWay – plan and fly!
4. Public buses:
   • If you would like to immerse yourself in a more local experience, buses are an economical option. The “Colectivo” stops near the airport with varied schedules and a price of $8 for a 4 hour ride. If you’re looking for a more direct option, the “Directo” buses leave from the Tracopa bus terminal downtown and cost $10 for a 2.5 hour ride. Once you arrive, it’s only a 5 minute walk to the park entrance!
5. Rental car:
   • If you prefer to go at your own pace, renting a car is ideal. We recommend opting for small or mid-size SUVs. Although the main roads are in good condition, you may want to explore further afield, where you will encounter more rustic roads.

History of Manuel Antonio National Park

Join me on this journey through time to discover how this corner of the Pacific became the biodiversity haven it is today.

Stellar Location

Before we dive into its history, let’s get to know its location. Manuel Antonio National Park is located on the shores of the central Pacific coast, specifically in the canton of Quepos, in the province of Puntarenas. Did you know that it is only 157 km south of San José, the capital? Well, yes! And only 7 km south of Quepos, between Damas and Matapalo.

Tasty Facts!

For those who love numbers, Manuel Antonio extends over an impressive 1,983 hectares on the mainland, and an immense 55,000 hectares in its marine part. It has been dedicated to conservation, research and, of course, eco-tourism. The goal? To educate and raise awareness of the importance of protecting our environment.

Acknowledgments to the Park

And if you’re thinking of visiting it, I’m not the only one who recommends it. In 2011, Forbes magazine named it one of the 12 most beautiful parks in the world. That’s nothing!

A Journey Through Time

History tells that the lands that embrace this park were once home to the Quepoa indigenous community. In fact, it is thanks to them that the nearby town has its name: Quepos. But history was shaken by the arrival of settlers. These lands went from being farming areas to being owned by the United Fruit Company. But guess what, history took a turn in 1972!

At the time, the Costa Rican community, with enviable passion and determination, lobbied for these lands to be acquired by the State. Some foreigners wanted to prohibit the locals from using the beaches and develop the area exclusively as a tourist center. But thanks to this community pressure, and under Law 5100, the “Parque Recreativo Nacional Playas de Manuel Antonio” was born. By and for the people!

Today, this park is under the protective mantle of the Central Pacific Conservation Area (ACOPAC), which is part of the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC), attached to the Ministry of Environment, Energy and Telecommunications (MINAET).

Frequently Asked Questions

Keep exploring Quepos