Day 1 in Manuel Antonio

Welcome to Costa Rica! Upon arrival, you will go through customs and immigration. Should you opt to purchase a transfer to your hotel; a representative will be waiting for you as you exit immigration. Arrive at your hotel, check in and do not give in to jet lag! There are many exciting things to explore at Manuel Antonio National Park.

Enjoy a scenic drive in a shared shuttle (about $50 from San Jose), look at the schedules and see which shuttle works best for you. Arrive at your hotel in Manuel Antonio and relax or you may take advantage of this afternoon to hike through Manuel Antonio National Park. There are many well-maintained trails that lead to spectacular viewpoints, secluded beaches, and small waterfalls. Enjoy dinner at El Avion and some of the best views from Manuel Antonio. El Avion has a fascinating history - a C-123 Fairchild cargo plain has been converted into a 2-level restaurant and bar. Before you leave, make sure to get a selfie in the cockpit, which includes a bar.

Day 2 in Manuel Antonio

Manuel Antonio National Park is a paradise inhabited by countless Costa Rican wildlife such as monkeys, frogs, sloths, iguanas, hermit crabs and more. Dolphins can also be seen from sailboats and catamarans. Visit the nearby reserve of Rainmaker Conservation Park (about $8), the reserve has a nice trail that loops past several waterfalls and along rustic hanging bridges. On the way, you`ll see interesting wildlife like glass-winged butterflies, poison dart frogs and many species of birds. You may opt to add specialized tours combining aquatic experiences such as kayaking, snorkeling, and sports fishing. The Manuel Antonio beaches are natural and protective of wildlife.

Day 3 in Manuel Antonio

We recommend you try a Sport Fishing Tour or White Water Rafting at Savegre or Naranjo River. If you have not had the chance to visit any of the wonderful Costa Rican National Parks, don't miss your opportunity now and book a Manuel Antonio National Park half day tour, where you may end your stay in Manuel Antonio with a rejuvenating swim at one of its wonderful protected beaches. For something a little further off the beaten path, Los Campesinos is a reserve about an hour north of Manuel Antonio. Los Campesinos features several trails with different highlights. One leads you beside a river and waterfall where you can take an invigorating dip in the water. Another trail gives you the option of zipping across the valley in a self-propelled cable car.

Additional Days in Manuel Antonio

Experience one of the cloud forests nearby. Los Quetzales National Park, just a short distance from Manuel Antonio, offers travelers a whole different kind of experience. The climate is cool and fresh, and due to its location high atop the Talamanca mountains, the park is typically entrenched in a haze of thick clouds. Moss-covered hardwoods, alpine plants, highland birds, and other flora and fauna that live only at such extreme elevations frequent the park; though the main draw is the chance to spot the park’s namesake Resplendent Quetzal, an exotic crimson and iridescent green bird with flowing tail feathers.

Another option nearby is Tapantí National Park. The park spans from the south corner of Orosi Valley into the Talamancan Mountain range and contains 18 square miles of an unspoiled cloud forest. The park is easily accessible and worth the trip. There are several hiking trails, swimming holes, picnic areas and an abundance of wildlife. The forests are home to over 45 different species of mammals including kinkajous, tapir, deer, raccoons, and monkeys. There are also 260 kinds of birds, the most common are the quetzal, hawks, falcons, parrots and humming birds. Additionally, 28 species of reptiles have been identified, which include snakes, toads, frogs, and salamanders.

Your Last Day in Manuel Antonio

Depart your hotel for the airport for your return home. We recommend that you purchase a private transfer; if so, a representative will meet you at the hotel in time to take you to the airport for your flight out.