Coast & forest · Puntarenas

Manuel Antonio nature guide

A small, popular national park where coastal rainforest meets white-sand coves, plus mangroves around nearby Quepos.

Updated: October 29, 2026. Tour availability, park rules and prices change, so check the booking page or park authority before you go.

Rock arch on the Pacific coast, Costa Rica · Photo: WildPhotography.com

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Why go

Manuel Antonio National Park is compact, with short, mostly well-built trails, which makes it one of the easiest places for first-time visitors to walk with a naturalist. It is also busy, so arrive early and expect company on the main trails.

Park rules to check

The park has a weekly closing day and a daily visitor cap. Check the official schedule and ticket rules before you book, because they can change.
Entry tickets are often bought online in advance; some guided tours include the ticket, others do not.
Food rules are strict and feeding animals is prohibited. Capuchins and raccoons near the beaches have learned to take food from bags.

Experiences

Guided park walks with a spotting scope.
Night walks on private reserves outside the park.
Mangrove kayaking around Isla Damas near Quepos, timed to the tide.

Practical notes

Difficulty: main trails are easy; side trails to viewpoints include stairs.
Heat: it is hot and humid. Bring water.
Accessibility: part of the main trail network is boardwalk or compacted path. Ask your guide about the route.

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