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Manuel Antonio National Park: Costa Rica's Coastal Gem

Discover Costa Rica's natural beauty: rainforests, beaches, and wildlife in Manuel Antonio National Park. A must-see destination!

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Manuel Antonio National Park, established in 1972, is a small yet incredibly biodiverse park on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, near Quepos. It features rainforests, beaches, and coral reefs, offering a stunning mix of landscapes and abundant wildlife, including sloths, monkeys, and numerous bird species.

A brief summary to Manuel Antonio National Park

  • Monday 7 am-4 pm
  • Tuesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Wednesday 7 am-4 pm
  • Thursday 7 am-4 pm
  • Friday 7 am-4 pm
  • Saturday 7 am-4 pm
  • Sunday 7 am-4 pm

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance through the official SINAC website to guarantee entry, especially during peak season.
  • Arrive early, especially during holidays, to avoid long lines and ensure entry.
  • Be cautious of unofficial vendors selling overpriced tickets or services.
  • Bring only water or natural drinks; food is not allowed to minimize environmental impact.
  • Consider hiring a certified naturalist guide to enhance your wildlife spotting and learn about the park's ecosystem.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Quepos, take the white 'Quepos - Manuel Antonio National Park' bus from the bus station. The bus departs every 30 minutes from 5:30 AM to 9:30 PM. The ride costs approximately 385 CRC. The bus stops along the hill to the park entrance, about a 5-minute walk from the park entrance.

  • Taxi

    Taxis from hotels in Quepos or Manuel Antonio to the park entrance typically cost $5 to $10. Ensure the taxi is licensed and agree on the fare before starting the ride. The journey is short, usually no more than 10-15 minutes, depending on your location.

  • Driving

    Drive south from Quepos towards Manuel Antonio. Just before the road dead-ends at Espadilla Beach, turn left to reach the park entrance. Be aware of unofficial parking touts. Park in the 'Manuel Antonio National Park - Official Parking' lot for approximately 4000 CRC per day. From the parking lot, walk about 5 minutes to the park entrance.

Unlock the Best of Manuel Antonio National Park

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Discover more about Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park, established in 1972, stands as a testament to Costa Rica's dedication to preserving its natural heritage. Despite being the smallest national park in Costa Rica, with a land area of 1,983 hectares (4,900 acres) and 25,634 hectares (63,340 acres) of water area, it is the most popular, attracting visitors with its impressive landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The park boasts an exceptional blend of rainforest, pristine beaches, and coral reefs. The white-sand beaches are considered some of the most beautiful in Costa Rica, bordered by lush forests and offering clear waters perfect for snorkeling. The forest is a haven for wildlife, including sloths, iguanas, squirrel monkeys, white-faced monkeys, and colorful crabs. Trails, like the one around Punta Catedral, provide breathtaking panoramic views. Manuel Antonio's history is rooted in the local community's desire to protect the area from development. The park is named after a conquistador, although legends vary. Today, it exemplifies sustainable tourism, balancing visitor access with environmental protection. The park's biodiversity includes 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. Visitors can explore the park's varied habitats, from primary and secondary forests to mangrove swamps and beaches. The park plays a crucial role in conserving endangered species, including the squirrel monkey.

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