Manuel Antonio: Private Wildlife Tour & Beach Swim

Summary

Walk rainforest trails spot monkeys sloths swim clear water

You’ll walk rainforest trails with a local guide in Manuel Antonio, spot monkeys and sloths through a pro spotting scope, then swim or relax on hidden beaches before enjoying fresh snacks. It’s personal—full of small surprises—and you’ll leave feeling like you’ve really been inside the forest for a while.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect to hear so many sounds at once — some sharp bird call above us, leaves crunching under my shoes, and somewhere out there, monkeys chattering like they had something urgent to say. Our guide, Diego, had this way of stopping mid-sentence when he spotted something; I’d be looking at a tangle of green and he’d quietly point out a sloth curled up so perfectly still it looked fake. He let me peek through his telescope and honestly, I almost dropped my phone trying to get the photo right. The air smelled sort of sweet and earthy, like wet bark after rain (even though it hadn’t rained yet that morning).

We wandered slowly — not rushed, which I liked — and Diego would switch between Spanish and English depending on who was listening. Sometimes he’d laugh at my attempts to pronounce the bird names (I’m still not sure how you’re supposed to say “motmot”). At one point a little group of capuchin monkeys darted across the path ahead, tails swinging like jump ropes. There were families with kids, couples just taking it all in quietly, even an older man who kept stopping to draw things in a tiny notebook. It felt relaxed but somehow electric at the same time.

The beach inside Manuel Antonio Park was brighter than I expected — white sand edged by tangled forest. Some people swam right away; I just stood in the shallow water for ages because it was cool and soft underfoot. We had snacks before heading back (fresh fruit mostly), and I remember wishing I could stay longer just listening to the waves and distant bird calls. So yeah, if you’re thinking about a day trip to Manuel Antonio from anywhere near Quepos or Jaco, this private wildlife tour is worth it for the quiet moments alone.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Manuel Antonio Park nature walk and swim

• Nature walk with specialist guide
• Observe wildlife with spotting scope
• Swim in forest-surrounded beach
• Enjoy refreshing snack at park exit

Top questions

Is hotel pickup included for this private Manuel Antonio tour?

Yes, air-conditioned vehicle pickup is included with your booking.

Can I bring plastic water bottles into Manuel Antonio Park?

No, commercial plastic bottles aren’t allowed—bring your own reusable container.

Are snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, you’ll get a refreshing snack at the end of your walk before returning.

Is this wildlife tour suitable for families or kids?

Yes, families with children are welcome—strollers are fine on all paths.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?

Yes—all transportation options and park areas are wheelchair accessible.

How long do we spend swimming at the beach?

You can choose how long to stay; bring swimsuits if you want extra time at the beach inside Manuel Antonio Park.

What’s included

Your day includes private hotel pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle, all guiding by a nature specialist with professional spotting scope for wildlife viewing (and photos), plus fresh snacks before drop-off back at your hotel or starting point.