Spend a full day with a bilingual guide exploring Manuel Antonio’s forests and white-sand beaches. Expect close wildlife viewing, local interpretation, and a balanced mix of trail time and beach relaxation.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You step off the minivan into humid air that smells of salt and damp leaves; the Pacific pushes a steady rhythm against the peninsula and the forest seems to breathe around the trailhead. A bilingual guide checks your tickets and points toward a narrow path where capuchin monkeys chatter overhead and sloths hold court in the canopy.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness; able to walk uneven trails for multiple hours and handle short uphill sections.
Wildlife
History
Established in 1972, Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s earliest national parks, set aside to protect coastal forests and shoreline ecosystems.
Conservation
High visitor numbers strain trails and wildlife; stay on marked paths, avoid feeding animals, and use reef-safe sunscreen to protect coastal marine habitats.
Reserve your spot on the Manuel Antonio National park, PRIVATE day tour from jaco today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Secure loose items
Monkeys are known to grab loose cameras, sunglasses and food—keep valuables zipped and on you or stored in the vehicle.
Hydrate and pace yourself
Bring 1–2 liters of water and sip regularly—humidity and uphill trail sections raise exertion quickly.
Wear sturdy, quick-dry shoes
Trails include roots, rocks and wet sections; closed-toe shoes with traction are safer than flip-flops.
Respect wildlife distance
Do not feed or touch animals; your guide will indicate safe viewing distances to avoid stressing wildlife.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Closed-toe shoes give traction on roots, rocks and muddy trail sections.
Lightweight rain jacket
Quick showers are common May–November; a compact shell keeps you dry without overheating.
summer
Binoculars
Small binoculars help spot sloths, birds and distant monkeys in the canopy.
Reef-safe sunscreen and hat
Protect skin during beach time and on exposed trail sections while avoiding harm to marine life.