Manuel Antonio Ntl. Park (Quepos) – Travel Guide
Manuel Antonio National Park in Quepos, Costa Rica, is renowned for its stunning combination of lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and diverse wildlife. This small but biologically rich park offers well-maintained trails that lead visitors through tropical forests to breathtaking viewpoints and secluded beaches. Wildlife enthusiasts can spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and an array of colorful birds. The park’s beautiful beaches, such as Playa Manuel Antonio and Playa Espadilla Sur, provide excellent opportunities for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. With its unique blend of natural beauty and abundant wildlife, Manuel Antonio National Park is a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
All about Manuel Antonio Ntl Park (Quepos)
Getting around Manuel Antonio Ntl Park
By Taxi
There are a lot of taxis on hand for guests without a car. Official red taxis are distinguished with a bright yellow sign on the side and are always have a meter, but that doesn’t mean they will always use it. Make sure you agree on a taxi fare before you get in to ensure you get the best price. You can hail a Red Taxi by calling +560-2777-3080 or +560-2777-1207. A red taxi to anywhere in Quepos will cost around 4570 CRC (about $8) except for a ride to Quepos La Managua Airport will cost around 8570 CRC (about $15).
By Bus
Public buses run between Quepos and Manuel Antonio transferring passengers to Manuel Antonio National Park and back. The trip will take approximately 25 minutes and has several stops along the route. Buses run from 5:45 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Buses leave every half hour or so and cost around 300 CRC (about 60 cents) each way.
By Rental Car
If you will be visiting other attractions outside of Manuel Antonio, renting a car is a convenient way to get around. There are several car rental companies in town, with prices comparable to those in San Jose or Liberia. Many car rental services will now drop off a car at your hotel if you suddenly get the urge to rent one mid-vacation. A rental car will cost approximately $50 per day including insurance. Some of the advantages are obvious – go where you want, when you want. Make your own agenda and have more freedom.
By Bicycle
Public buses run between Quepos and Manuel Antonio transferring passengers to Manuel Antonio National Park and back. The trip will take approximately 25 minutes and has several stops along the route. Buses run from 5:45 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. Buses leave every half hour or so and cost around 300 CRC (about 60 cents) each way.
Manuel Antonio FAQ
How do I get from the airport to my hotel?
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica is served by Juan Santamaria International Airport (IATA code SJO), which is located 17 kilometers (approximately 10.5 miles) northwest of downtown San Jose. If you are continuing on to Manuel Antonio there are several options. You can rent a car on your arrival and drive to Manuel Antonio, this will also give you freedom around Manuel Antonio to explore the area and various attractions, hot springs, etc. Another option is to use a shared shuttle like EasyRide Costa Rica, Interbus, or Gray Line. Look at the schedules and see which one works best for you.
If you are spending the night in San Jose several options to get to your hotel. There is a local bus stop outside the airport (on the other side of the multi-story parking garage outside of arrivals). It costs less than 570 colones (about $1) and takes you right downtown. You can put your luggage in the storage area below on the bus. The least expensive option is taking the bus into downtown and get a taxi there to your final destination. Make sure you have some smaller colones bills as the may not take larger bills.The taxis charge 17,000 colones (about $30) to take you to the San Jose, be sure to take one of the licensed orange taxis that say `Taxi Aeropuerto.` There are many unlicensed taxi drivers who will charge you almost twice as much as Taxi Aeropuerto. There is an ATM by the entrance to the departures that will give you both Colones and Dollars.
How do I call/hail a taxi?
Officially licensed taxis are colored red or orange; if a taxi is any other color or lacks the inverted yellow triangle on the doors, it’s a `pirate taxi` operating illegally. When boarding the taxi ask the taxi driver `Puede poner la maria, por favor?` (Could you please turn the meter on?), otherwise, you will pay a higher price. For a taxi, call Coopetaxi (tel. 506/2235-9966) or Coopetico (tel. 506/2224-7979).
Should I rent a car in Manuel Antonio?
Yes, renting a car is an excellent way to explore Manuel Antonio and see the countryside of Costa Rica. Some of the advantages are obvious – go where you want, when you want. Make your own agenda and have more freedom.
Is Manuel Antonio a walking city?
Manuel Antonio is a great area to get around by walking. There are multiple trails you can explore which lead to beautiful views, beaches, and a waterfall. Along the trails, you can view more wildlife because there are fewer people and less disturbance. You may run into agoutis, see hummingbirds and monkeys up close. Since fewer people hike the trails, you can have it all to yourself.
Is the Manuel Antonio area dangerous?
No, Manuel Antonio is a very safe area to visit. There are no areas that you should avoid. Most of the crimes committed are petty and rarely violent. If you are traveling through San Jose, take precautions to prevent crime. When walking around the city, keep your passport safely locked away in your hotel room. Pickpockets have been known to target tourists, so make sure your purses, bags, and wallets are close to your body at all times. Travelers to San Jose have also complained about crime at the airport. Stay alert, only travel in familiar areas of town, and contact the police immediately if you are the victim of a crime.
Read More
Discover further essential tips for navigating the vibrant city. Learn about must-see attractions, dining hotspots, transportation options, and cultural insights.
What are the customs for tipping in Costa Rica? Can I pay/tip in US dollars?
The currency of Costa Rica is the Colon. US dollars are not accepted. Please be sure to have the correct currency on hand or be prepared to exchange your dollars for colones upon arrival. Currency exchange desks can be found at the airport and many locations throughout the city.
I do not speak Spanish. Will many people speak English in Costa Rica?
No, about 90 percent of Costa Ricans speak Spanish as their first language. English may be spoken at your hotel and in the tourist areas, but not everywhere. We suggest that you get a good English-Spanish dictionary and familiarize yourself with common phrases such as hello, goodbye, excuse me and numbers 1-10.
Do I need a visa to visit Costa Rica?
No, U.S. citizens do not need a visa to enter Costa Rica for stays of less than 90 days. However, they must have a current valid passport and a return ticket to exit Costa Rica (either to return to the U.S. or to go to another country).
Are Vaccinations required to visit Costa Rica? Are there any other precautions I should take?
No, there are currently no vaccination requirements to visit Costa Rica. There is no risk of yellow fever in Costa Rica. The government of Costa Rica requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US.
Zika is a risk in Costa Rica. Because Zika infection in a pregnant woman can cause serious birth defects, women who are pregnant should not travel to Costa Rica. All travelers should strictly follow steps to prevent mosquito bites and sexual exposure to Zika virus during and after the trip. For the latest updates visit the CDC page https://www.cdc.gov/ on the internet.
What kind of food is available in Manuel Antonio?
A typical breakfast is hearty and consists of Gallo Pinto (rice and beans – sometimes served with scrambled eggs). Lunch is solid too, the typical dishes are Casado (rice and beans, served with meat or fish, fried plantains, cheese and corn tortilla), Ceviche (fish marinated and cooked in lime juice, coriander and pepper). There is not a dinner culture in Costa Rica. An afternoon snack consists of bread and coffee.
Can I drink the water in Costa Rica?
No, the water is not drinkable in Costa Rica. We suggest that you carry bottled water with you. Most tourist areas will have bottled water available for purchase.
Top Attractions
Manuel Antonio Beach
This picturesque beach features soft white sand and crystal-clear waters, making it perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the stunning coastal scenery.
Playa Espadilla Sur
The serene and less crowded beach located within the park, is ideal for relaxation and water activities such as snorkeling and tide-pooling.
Cathedral Point
This scenic trail offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the surrounding forest, providing excellent opportunities for photography and wildlife
The Park Trails
The well-maintained network of trails allows visitors to explore the lush rainforest, encounter diverse wildlife like monkeys and sloths, and discover hidden gems within the park.
Unique Experiences
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Embarking on a wildlife watching tour in Manuel Antonio is an immersive and exciting experience. Guided by experts, you will encounter monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds in their natural habitat.
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Snorkeling at Manuel Antonio Beach is a captivating underwater adventure. Exploring the clear waters, you will swim among vibrant coral reefs and colorful marine life.
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Spending a day on the beaches of Manuel Antonio is a tranquil and refreshing experience. The soft sand and gentle waves provide the perfect backdrop for sunbathing and swimming.
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Kayaking and paddleboarding around Manuel Antonio’s coast is a thrilling and scenic activity. Paddling through calm waters, you can explore hidden coves and observe marine life up close.
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Indulging in a local cuisine tour in Quepos is a delightful and flavorful journey. Sampling traditional Costa Rican dishes, you will savor the tastes of gallo pinto, ceviche, and fresh seafood.
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What to expect while traveling
