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Manuel Antonio National Park

Information Center 

Manuel Antonio National Park is one of Costa Rica's most popular natural destinations. Located on the central Pacific coast of the country, near the town of Quepos in the province of Puntarenas. Manuel Antonio Park attracts thousands of visitors each year due to its stunning natural beauty, exceptional biodiversity, and white sandy beaches.

Below, we provide detailed information about Manuel Antonio National Park, including details about its location, features, schedules, fees, regulations, and restrictions:

Location: Manuel Antonio National Park is about 157 kilometers drive from Costa Rica's capital, San José. It can be easily accessed by road from San José or from other important cities like Puntarenas, Jaco, and Quepos. The Manuel Antonio Park entrance is located just a few minutes by car from Quepos City.

Features and biodiversity: Manuel Antonio National Park is known for its lush tropical forest, abundant wildlife, and picturesque beaches. It hosts a wide variety of plants and animal species, including monkeys, sloths, iguanas, tropical birds, and a variety of insects. In addition to its scenic beaches, the park also features hiking trails that traverse the jungle, providing visitors with the opportunity to observe flora and fauna up close.

Opening hours: Manuel Antonio National Park is open every day of the week except Tuesdays. Opening hours are from 7:00 am to 4:00 pm.

 

Entrance fees: To enter Manuel Antonio National Park, an entrance fee is charged, which varies depending on the visitor's nationality and age. Children usually have reduced rates, while adults and foreigners pay higher fees. Cash is not accepted at the park entrance. The Park tickets can only be purchased online through SINAC: 

           

 

Regulations and rules: Like most national parks, there are rules and regulations that visitors must follow to protect the natural environment and wildlife.

 

 

Restrictions: Although Manuel Antonio National Park is a popular destination, there are certain restrictions that visitors should be aware of. For example, taking commercial plastic bottles of water or canned drinks, camping inside the park is not allowed, and activities such as fishing and plant collection are prohibited. Additionally, access to certain areas of the park may be limited during certain times of the year due to wildlife conservation and protection.

In summary, Manuel Antonio National Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience Costa Rica's natural beauty and enjoy outdoor nature tours in a spectacular setting. With its stunning beaches, lush tropical forest, and abundant wildlife, this park is a must-visit for anyone traveling to Costa Rica. However, it's important to follow the park's regulations and restrictions to ensure its long-term conservation and enjoy a safe and environmentally respectful experience.

*Prices for park tickets:

- None-Resident Adult: $16 plus tax

- None-Resident Child (from 2 to 12 years old): $5 plus tax

- Resident Adult: $3 plus tax

- Resident Child (from 6 to 12 years old): $1 plus tax 

*These rules include:

- Not feeding animals

- Not removing plants or animals from the park

- Not leaving trash

- No smoking inside

- No commercial plastic water or drink bottles

These rules are designed to ensure the preservation of the ecosystem and the safety of visitors.

Database for Manuel Antonio National Park:

Table: Attractions

Name

Manuel Antonio Beach

Espadilla Sur Beach

Gemelas Beach Trail

Waterfall Trail

Punta Catedral Viewpoint

Main Forest Trail

Mangrove Ecosystem Trail

Description

White sand beach with crystal-clear waters, ideal for swimming and snorkeling.

Extensive beach with perfect surf waves and beach activities.

Scenic path connecting the main beaches and offering panoramic views.

Jungle trail surrounded by tropical vegetation along a small river with a nice waterfall located at the end very of the trail.

Natural lookout with stunning views of the sea and lush jungle.

Trail winding through the secondary forest, highlighting the diversity of flora and fauna.

Aerial Trail along the mangroves of Manuel Antonio National Pak.

Attractions

Beach and wildlife

Beach and wildlife

Beach and forest 

River trail and waterfall

Forest and wildlife 

Forest and wildlife

Aerial trail and mangroves

Tabla: Most common species

Name

Squirrel Monkey

White faced Monkey

Howler Monkey

Three Toed Sloth 

Two Toed Sloth

Yellow Throated Toucan 

Green Iguana 

Description

Smallest primate in Costa Rica, in danger of extinction, well known for its very long tail and acrobatic habits  

Smart and dominant species, considered to be omnivorous. However, they are frequently found praying on some big species like other monkeys and birds.

Largest primate species in Manuel Antonio National Park. Well known for its very loud howling noise, herbivorous and very calm.

The symbol for Manuel Antonio Park and Costa Rica. Known as the cutest mammal in Manuel Antonio Costa Rica 

Brown-colored sloth, nocturnal, omnivorous, it hides very well in the canopy vegetation of Manuel Antonio Park.

Colorful bird with a large curved bill, largest toucan species in Manuel Antonio,Costa Rica, preys on other bird species, snakes and insects, also eats fruits and seeds. 

Large arboreal reptile, green and orange color, males have a crested back. Eats fruits, flowers, and leaves

Type

Mammal

Mammal

Mammal

Mammal

Mammal

Bird

Reptile

Table: Services 

Name

Park entrance center

Picnic areas

Public restrooms

Self guided trails

Food & cofee shop

Souvenir shop

Guided tours service

Description

Entrance point to the park, park rangers checking visitors, maps and basic services.

Designated areas for resting during the walk through the forest of the Manuel Antonio National Park.

Sanitary facilities with toilets and showers located at beaches for visitors.

Market trails with information about flora, fauna, and points of interest.

Food and beverage shop offering snacks, light meals, refreshing drinks, and coffee.

Store offering a variety of souvenirs and park-related products

Expert local certified guides are available for guided tours through the park 

Type

Information

Recreation

Service

Recreation

Service

Shopping

Service

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