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Manuel Antonio National Park: A Costa Rican Gem

Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty in Manuel Antonio National Park: stunning beaches, rainforest trails, and incredible wildlife encounters.

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Manuel Antonio National Park, located near Quepos in Costa Rica, is a small yet incredibly biodiverse park renowned for its stunning beaches, lush rainforest, and abundant wildlife. Despite its size, it's a popular destination, offering a rich blend of natural beauty and recreational activities.

A brief summary to National Park

  • CR6V+HFP, Quepos, Puntarenas Province, CR

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance through the official SINAC website to guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
  • Arrive early in the morning to avoid crowds and increase your chances of spotting wildlife.
  • Be cautious of unofficial guides and parking touts near the entrance; purchase services only from certified vendors.
  • Bring water and snacks, but note that food is restricted within the park to minimize environmental impact.
  • Protect yourself from the sun and insects with appropriate clothing, sunscreen, and repellent.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quepos, take the local bus that runs frequently (approximately every 30 minutes) from the Quepos bus station to Manuel Antonio National Park. The bus is marked with 'Quepos - Manuel Antonio National Park'. The fare is approximately ₡380 CRC, payable in cash to the driver. The bus will drop you off near Playa Espadilla, a short, scenic walk from the park entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Quepos and can take you directly to the park entrance. A taxi ride from Quepos to Manuel Antonio National Park typically costs between $5 to $10 USD, depending on your location. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Driving

    If driving, head south from Quepos on Route 618. Be aware of unofficial parking touts trying to direct you to overpriced lots. Continue to the 'Manuel Antonio National Park - Official Parking'. Parking costs approximately ₡4000-5000 CRC for the day. From the parking area, it's a short walk to the park entrance.

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Discover more about National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park, a jewel on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, is a testament to the country's commitment to preserving its natural heritage. Established in 1972, the park encompasses a relatively small area of 1,983 hectares (approximately 4,900 acres) of land and 25,634 hectares (63,340 acres) of marine area. Despite its modest size, Manuel Antonio is celebrated as one of Costa Rica's most beloved and biodiverse national parks, drawing visitors from across the globe. The park's landscape is a captivating blend of rainforest, pristine beaches, and coral reefs. Its unique setting fosters a rich array of wildlife, including the endangered titi monkey, white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, sloths, and numerous bird species. The park's trails wind through the forest, offering opportunities for wildlife observation and leading to breathtaking viewpoints. Manuel Antonio's beaches, such as Espadilla Sur, Manuel Antonio, and Puerto Escondido, are renowned for their beauty. The park also features a 14-hectare lagoon and mangrove swamps, further enhancing its ecological diversity. The park is open from Wednesday to Monday, 7:00 am to 4:00 pm, and closed on Tuesdays for maintenance and conservation. Visitors can purchase tickets online in advance.

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