Discover the lush rainforests, stunning beaches, and diverse wildlife of Manuel Antonio National Park, one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica for nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Experience the Beauty of Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park is a natural paradise located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica. With its lush rainforests, beautiful beaches, and diverse wildlife, it is one of the most popular destinations in Costa Rica for visitors.
Here is everything you need to know about visiting Manuel Antonio National Park.
Getting There
Manuel Antonio National Park is located on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, approximately 100 miles from San Jose.
Visitors can fly into San Jose and take a bus or shuttle to the park, or they can drive to the park from San Jose. The drive takes approximately three hours and is a scenic route that passes through lush rainforests and picturesque towns.
Wildlife
Manuel Antonio National Park is home to an incredible variety of wildlife, including over 350 species of birds, 109 species of mammals, and countless species of insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Visitors can spot capuchin and howler monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and toucans in the treetops, while raccoons, agoutis, and coatis scurry along the forest floor.
One of the highlights of Manuel Antonio National Park is the three-toed sloth, which is found only in this region of the world. Visitors can also see white-faced monkeys, squirrel monkeys, and spider monkeys swinging through the trees.
Activities
There is a wide range of activities available for visitors to Manuel Antonio National Park, including hiking, beachcombing, kayaking, and surfing. The park has several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the lush rainforest and spot wildlife along the way.
The trails range from easy to moderate difficulty and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
The park also boasts four stunning beaches, including Playa Manuel Antonio, which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in the world. Visitors can swim, sunbathe, and snorkel at the beaches, or they can rent a kayak or paddleboard to explore the surrounding coastline.
For surfers, there are several excellent surf spots located just outside the park. Surf lessons and board rentals are available for visitors who want to try their hand at surfing.
Accommodation
There are several accommodation options available in Manuel Antonio National Park, ranging from budget hostels to luxury resorts. Most lodges and hotels are located in the town of Manuel Antonio, which is located just outside the park.
Some lodges and hotels offer guided tours and activities, making it easy for visitors to explore the park.
Conclusion
Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers. With its diverse wildlife, lush rainforests, and stunning beaches, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Whether you want to hike through the rainforest, swim in the ocean, or watch monkeys swinging through the trees, Manuel Antonio National Park is a place you will never forget.