Manuel Antonio National Park 2025: Beaches, Trails & Wildlife

Why Visit Manuel Antonio National Park?

Manuel Antonio National Park stands as one of Costa Rica’s most treasured protected areas, representing the perfect fusion of tropical rainforest, pristine beaches, and incredible wildlife diversity within a compact 1,983-hectare sanctuary. Established in 1972, this remarkable national park has become synonymous with Costa Rica’s commitment to conservation while showcasing the extraordinary biodiversity that makes this Central American nation a global leader in environmental protection.

Despite being Costa Rica’s smallest national park, Manuel Antonio hosts an astounding concentration of wildlife, making every square meter a potential location for remarkable encounters with some of the world’s most fascinating creatures.

Extraordinary Wildlife of Manuel Antonio

Did You Know?

Manuel Antonio National Park hosts over 350 bird species, 109 mammal species, and countless reptiles and amphibians within its small boundaries – representing approximately 35% of Costa Rica’s total avian diversity!

The Famous Three Monkey Species

White-faced Capuchin Monkeys

Highly intelligent primates known for their problem-solving abilities and complex social behaviors. These curious monkeys often interact with visitors while demonstrating remarkable tool use.

Mantled Howler Monkeys

Famous for their powerful territorial calls that can be heard up to 5 kilometers away. These important seed dispersers create the park’s iconic dawn chorus.

Central American Squirrel Monkeys

Endemic to specific Costa Rican regions, these tiny primates represent a major conservation success story, recovering from near-extinction through intensive protection efforts.

The Amazing Manuel Antonio Sloths

Both two-toed and three-toed sloths inhabit the park’s diverse forest environments, representing fascinating examples of evolutionary specialization. These remarkable mammals have evolved unique adaptations including symbiotic relationships with algae, specialized claws for secure gripping, and extreme energy conservation strategies.

Over 350 Bird Species

Manuel Antonio hosts an incredible diversity of birds, from tiny hummingbirds to magnificent Scarlet Macaws. The park’s position at ecosystem convergence points creates optimal conditions for both resident species and seasonal migrants.

Principal Trail Network

Sendero El Perezoso (Sloth Trail)

This primary 1.4-kilometer trail winds through primary and secondary forests, offering optimal opportunities for wildlife encounters including all three monkey species, sloths, and diverse bird communities..

Sendero Punta Catedral

A shorter 0.8-kilometer trail leading to spectacular ocean viewpoints and primary forest experiences, perfect for bird watching and coastal wildlife observatio

Beach Access Areas

Four pristine beaches within park boundaries offer spectacular combinations of wildlife observation and tropical paradise relaxation, including Playa Manuel Antonio and the more secluded Playa Gemelas.

Conservation and Environmental Protection

Conservation Challenges and Successes

Manuel Antonio National Park faces ongoing conservation challenges typical of small, isolated protected areas surrounded by development pressure. However, numerous success stories demonstrate the effectiveness of dedicated conservation efforts.

Major Conservation Achievements:

Scarlet Macaw Recovery: Population increased from near-extinction to stable numbers
Habitat Protection: Successful prevention of major development projects
Research Programs: Long-term wildlife monitoring and behavioral studies
Community Involvement: Local education and employment programs
Biological Corridors: Connecting park to surrounding forest fragments

Sustainable Tourism Management

Daily visitor limits and certified guide requirements help control environmental impact while ensuring quality educational experiences. Revenue from park entrance fees directly supports conservation programs and community development initiatives.

Planning Your Manuel Antonio National Park Visit

Best Visiting Conditions

Optimal wildlife activity occurs during early morning hours when temperatures remain comfortable and animals demonstrate peak activity levels. The park operates year-round with different seasonal advantages:

Dry Season (December-April): Guaranteed sunny conditions and easier trail access
Green Season (May-November): Lush vegetation, increased wildlife activity, fewer crowds
Migration Periods: Additional bird species during spring and fall transitions

What to Bring:

Essential Items Checklist:

Why Choose Tico Xperience?

Local Expertise

Our guides are from Manuel Antonio and know the park better than anyone. Discover hidden trails and wildlife secrets.

Wildlife Spotting Guarantee

With professional scopes, you won't miss the animals hiding in the trees. We guarantee amazing wildlife sightings.

Eco-Friendly Practices

We follow sustainable tourism standards to protect the park and its wildlife for future generations.

Experience Manuel Antonio with Expert Guides

While independent park visits provide flexibility, professional guided tours offer enhanced wildlife observation, educational interpretation, and access to specialized equipment and expertise.

Join thousands of satisfied guests who have discovered Costa Rica’s natural treasures through Tico Xperience’s expert-guided tours while supporting ongoing conservation efforts.