95. COSTA RICA (ENGLISH) - Manuel Antonio National Park - ROADTRIP

Manuel Antonio National Park – Costa Rica
Location




On the Pacific Coast of Costa Rica




Near the town of Quepos, in
Puntarenas Province




About 2.5 to 3 hours by car from San
José






Costa Rica’s smallest national park – but
one of the most biodiverse




Combines lush rainforest, white-sand
beaches, and wildlife




Great for families, photographers, and nature lovers alike






Sloths (both 2- and 3-toed!)




White-faced capuchin monkeys (often near the
beach)




Howler monkeys, squirrel
monkeys




Iguanas, raccoons,
coatis, and toucans




Colorful butterflies, frogs, and birds






Playa Manuel Antonio: postcard-perfect,
turquoise water




Playa Espadilla Sur: quieter, often fewer
people




Playa Gemelas: small, hidden twin beaches –
a great escape






Open: Tuesday to Sunday (closed on
Mondays)




Hours: 7:00 AM – 4:00 PM (last entry at 3:00
PM)




Tickets:




Adults: ~$18–20 USD




Children (ages 2–11): ~$6 USD




Buy online only at www.sinac.go.cr








Trails are easy and well-maintained




Main Trail (Sendero Principal): great for
spotting monkeys and sloths




Punta Catedral Trail: offers stunning cliff
and ocean views




Mirador Trail: lookout points with photo
opportunities






Arrive early (7:00 AM) for fewer people and
active animals




Consider a licensed guide – they spot things
you’d miss!




Bring binoculars and a zoom lens for sloths and birds






No food allowed in the park (to protect
animals)




Only reusable water bottles permitted




Don’t feed or touch wildlife – it’s illegal and harmful




Restrooms and showers are available near the main beaches






Refillable water bottle




Comfortable shoes (for walking trails)




Swimsuit and towel




Sunscreen, hat, and insect repellent




Camera or phone with zoom






Many options in Quepos or Manuel
Antonio:
Boutique hotels, eco-lodges, luxury resorts, hostels, and
Airbnbs




Book early in high season (Dec–Apr) – it’s
popular!






Dry Season: December – April sunny, best
for beach & photos