Manuel Antonio National Park Nature Hike, Manuel Antonio

Discover the natural beauty of the world-famous Manuel Antonio National Park on a hike with an expert guide. While trekking the two-mile (3.2-km) trail, keep your eyes open for monkeys, sloths, birds, reptiles, and butterflies in the wild. The path through the lush rainforest leads you to the sandy beaches and bright blue waters of one of the most beautiful beaches in the country. 

Explore the pristine coastline of Manuel Antonio National Park with this group sailing adventure. Board a comfortable, multideck catamaran in Quepos, then sit back and learn about the region's geography and wildlife as you glide past islands, rock formations, and dramatic cliffs. Your captain will drop anchor in a secluded bay for snorkeling, swimming, and some fun on the boat's two waterslides, then it's time for a delicious barbecue served on deck. This relaxed excursion is perfect for nature lovers and families keen to spot the region's marine life and spend a day out on the water.

Perfect for nature lovers and families, this active excursion lets you explore the scenic coast of Manuel Antonio from the water. Climb into a single or double kayak and follow your guide as you paddle past small islands and nesting areas for marine birds, then stop for a break in the beautiful Biesanz Bay, where you'll have the opportunity to snorkel and spot parrotfish, starfish, angelfish, and even sea turtles. After working up an appetite with a few hours on the water, you'll head back to base camp and enjoy a delicious homemade meal. 

Board a 30-foot Island Hopper for a scuba diving excursion in the Caño Island Biological Reserve. Dive into the waters surrounding Isla del Caño and explore the abundant marine life, including reef sharks, sea turtles, and various fish species.

 

Tour Kids Saving the Rainforest, a non-profit organization based in Quepos. The sanctuary rescues over 100 animals each year with the primary goal of rehabilitating them to be released back into the wild. On an educational walk through the wildlife center, you'll learn invaluable lessons about engaging with these species in an ecologically responsible way. Species in the rehabilitation program include sloths (two and three-toed), marmosets, great macaws, toucans, and all four species of monkeys found in Costa Rica.

Experience Costa Rica's natural beauty at Espadilla Beach, a large stretch offering surf lessons, parasailing, and rentals for paddleboards, chairs, and umbrellas. After parking along Route 618, you can explore the open northern section or the southern area within Manuel Antonio National Park. For a quieter, more secluded beach day, head to the Playitas Beach extension, known for its bay-like shape, or take a short hike down to the hidden Biesanz Beach, where vendors provide everything you need from surfboards to food and drinks. Enjoy the local wildlife, including monkeys, and the calm waves at this shaded, tranquil spot.

Perfect for families and first-timers, this adventurous journey down the Río Savegre is an ideal introduction to the thrills of whitewater rafting. It starts with a transfer from your hotel to meet your experienced guides on the banks of one of Costa Rica's cleanest rivers, which winds through a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. Gear up and learn the basics, then set off on a 2.5-hour rafting run through Class II and III rapids. In between exhilarating whitewater portions, you'll have plenty of breaks to swim and spot wildlife on the riverbanks. End the day at base camp, where a traditional Costa Rican meal awaits.

Take a gentle cruise through the lush mangrove estuaries around Isla Damas on this four-hour excursion that's perfect for families and nature lovers. Your knowledgeable guide will point out flora and fauna as you glide along the natural passageways created by the river's ebb and flow. Watch for exotic birds in the surrounding treetops, spot monkeys and reptiles on the shores, and keep an eye on the water where the fluctuating conditions of sediment and saltwater attract a wide range of marine life. The day ends back on shore with an included lunch with your group and guides.

Perfect for nature lovers, this kayaking adventure introduces you to the mangrove forests of Isla Damas, just a 15-minute drive from Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Navigate through tight quarters in your fun pedal kayak, spotting abundant wildlife such as monkeys, birds, and reptiles. You'll also learn about the mangrove tree species and why this ecosystem is crucial to Costa Rica's biodiversity as your experienced guides lead you and your small group through this unspoiled haven.

Experience a more authentic side of Costa Rica with this countryside culinary experience that's perfect for curious foodies. After a stop at the local farmers' market in Quepos to choose ingredients, you'll travel to a private ranch in the village of Londres. Help pick produce from the property's organic garden, then team up with a local chef to cook a traditional lunch. You'll learn how to make corn tortillas by hand, prepare a fresh ceviche, and whip up a classic chicken dish. Enjoy the meal, then take some time to explore the ranch and its peaceful surroundings; weather permitting, you can even take a swim in the Río Naranjo.