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The Ultimate Manuel Antonio National Park Guide 2026: Tours, Tickets & Wildlife
Last Updated: 2026 | By Adventure Tours Costa Rica Experts
Manuel Antonio is the jewel of Costa Rica's Central Pacific. Famous for its heavy concentration of biodiversity—including the famous three-toed sloths and white-faced monkeys—it combines world-class beaches with accessible rainforests. Whether you are staying locally or looking for the perfect day trip from Jaco Beach, this guide covers everything you need to know for a seamless adventure in 2026.
How to Get to Manuel Antonio from Jaco
One of the most common questions we get is regarding the distance. Manuel Antonio is approximately 60 to 90 minutes from Jaco Beach, making it the perfect distance for a day tour without the hassle of changing hotels.
💡 Pro Tip for Comfort & Safety: Don't stress about driving on unfamiliar roads. Our tours include private, air-conditioned transportation to ensure you arrive fresh and ready to explore.
Manuel Antonio National Park: What You Need to Know
Spanning over 1,600 acres, this park is a sanctuary for 109 species of mammals and 184 species of birds. However, rules have changed in 2025-2026 to protect the ecosystem.
- Closed on Tuesdays: The park is closed every Tuesday for maintenance. Plan accordingly!
- No Single-Use Plastics: Strictly prohibited inside the park to protect wildlife.
- Tickets Sell Out: Entries are limited per day. We highly recommend booking a guided tour where logistics are handled for you.
Top Things to Do: The 2026 Bucket List
Beyond the hiking trails, Manuel Antonio offers high-octane adventure and serene water experiences.
1. Ocean & Mangrove Adventures
For those who love the water, the Pacific coast offers crystal clear opportunities.
Catamaran Cruise 🛳️
Sail along the coastline, snorkel in Biesanz Bay, and enjoy a gourmet lunch.
View Catamaran Tour »Damas Island Kayak 🛶
Paddle silently through the mangroves to see nature up close.
View Kayak Tour »2. Adrenaline & Wildlife
If you crave excitement, the rivers near Manuel Antonio are world-class.
- Savegre Rafting (Class III): Perfect for families and nature lovers.
- Naranjo Rafting (Class IV): For the experienced thrill-seeker.
- El Chorro (Class IV-V): The ultimate challenge.
- Canopy Zipline: Fly through the treetops.
- Jet Ski Tour: High speed ocean fun.
⚡ Maximize Your Day: Best Combo Tours
Short on time? Combine the best activities into a single day trip. Our most popular option for 2026 is the Park & Mangrove Combo.
You get a guided hike in the morning and a boat tour through the Damas Mangroves in the afternoon to see the famous "monkey face" capuchins.
Where to Stay & Eat
Manuel Antonio boasts a vibrant culinary scene. Don't miss El Avión (a restaurant inside a C-123 plane) or Emilio's Cafe for ocean views.
Recommended Luxury Stay: Gaia Hotel & Reserve
For those seeking sustainable luxury, we highly recommend the Gaia Hotel and Reserve. This 5-star boutique hotel offers adults-only exclusivity and is nestled in its own nature reserve.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When is the best time to visit Manuel Antonio?
The dry season (December to April) offers the most sunshine. However, the "green season" (May to November) offers lush landscapes and fewer crowds, making it great for photography.
Is Manuel Antonio safe for tourists?
Yes, it is one of the safest destinations in Costa Rica. To ensure maximum safety and comfort, we recommend booking private guided tours and transportation to avoid petty theft on public beaches.
Can I see sloths in Manuel Antonio?
Absolutely. Manuel Antonio is one of the best places in the world to see both two-toed and three-toed sloths. A guide with a spotting scope increases your chances of sighting them by 90%.
