The entry fee for the park is set at $18.08. A special rate for children aged 2 to 11 years is available at $5.65. Please note, ticket purchases can only be made online HERE.
Visitors during peak times (Christmas, New Year’s, and Easter) are advised to arrive early, between 7:00 to 7:30 am, to facilitate entry.
While visiting Manuel Antonio National Park independently, be cautious of individuals impersonating official park staff to sell guiding services, parking, or entrance tickets. These unauthorized vendors, often dressed like park rangers, have no affiliation with the park. They may attempt to sell overpriced tickets or services and direct you to remote parking locations.
For authentic park experiences, continue directly to the park entrance where parking is available for C3000 to C4000 (less than $6-$7). Purchase your genuine tickets online HERE ($18.08 for adults and children aged 12 and above).
For professional guided tours, bookings can be made HERE. Taxis from your hotel to the park are a reliable transportation option, with fares ranging from $5 to $10 per ride, depending on your location.
Established in 1972, Manuel Antonio National Park stands as a testament to Costa Rica’s commitment to preserving one of the most breathtaking and biodiverse regions on the planet. Despite being the smallest national park in the country, its 683 hectares boast an unparalleled blend of stunning landscapes and vibrant wildlife.
Nestled within this compact yet extraordinary park is a mesmerizing mix of rainforest, pristine beaches, and coral reefs, creating a sanctuary of natural beauty. The beaches, considered among the most picturesque in Costa Rica, are fringed by dense, green forests, offering outstanding snorkeling opportunities in their clear, inviting waters.
The forest itself is a haven for an array of wildlife, including sloths, iguanas, the enchanting squirrel monkeys—a species rarely seen elsewhere—along with white-faced monkeys and countless vibrant crabs that add a splash of color to the landscape. The trail weaving around Punta Catedral affords hikers breathtaking panoramic views, further enhancing the park’s allure.
Conveniently located south of Quepos, Manuel Antonio is easily accessible and surrounded by a variety of hotels and restaurants catering to all preferences. This juxtaposition of natural splendor and convenience makes Manuel Antonio National Park a must-visit destination, embodying the essence of Costa Rica’s rich ecological heritage.
Within the confines of the park, visitors are enveloped in a rich tapestry of wildlife. Cathedral Point, distinguished by its forest-crowned cliffs, was once detached as an island but has since merged with the mainland through a slender isthmus. This natural causeway now delineates the boundary between the park’s two famed beaches: Playa Espadilla Sur and Playa Manuel Antonio. The latter, a southern-facing beach, unfolds as a picturesque half-mile stretch of white sandy crescent, carving through lush greenery on one side and leading to a secluded, tranquil cove on the other.
As you stand with your feet nestled in the soft sand, gazing at the waves as they embrace the rocks framing the lagoon, there’s an overwhelming sense of solitude. It’s remarkably easy to feel worlds away from civilization, lost in a moment of natural serenity and the rhythmic sound of the sea.
If you need additional information on travel options from SJO or for reservations, please do not hesitate to Contact Us.
If you are looking for accommodation near SJO, check out the Adventure Inn; you can read more about this option and get a 10% discount applied if booking through this link: http://www.adventure-inn.com/promo/manuelantonioestates
Contact us to assist in planning an unforgettable experience or Book your guide now
Ponce de León, the renowned Spanish explorer best known for his elusive quest for the Fountain of Youth, seldom receives acknowledgment for one of his most significant contributions to the world of exploration. In 1519, he charted the territories of Quepos and Manuel Antonio, marking them as noteworthy discoveries.
The Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, brimming with natural riches, might well have been the embodiment of his legendary Fountain of Youth, had he ventured ashore to explore its vibrant landscapes and abundant resources.
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