Manuel Antonio: Wildlife Hike & Beach Stop with Pickup

Summary

Wildlife walks, hidden beaches and early morning rainforest sounds

You’ll walk shaded trails in Manuel Antonio with a local guide spotting monkeys and sloths along the way, then pause for fresh fruit at a quiet beach where swimming is an option. Hotel pickup and drop-off make it easy—just bring your curiosity and maybe a towel for that last stretch by the sea.

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely started down the trail in Manuel Antonio when our guide, José, stopped us with a quick wave—he’d already spotted a sloth tucked way up in the branches. I could hear the ocean somewhere close, but all I could see was green—every shade of it, tangled and dripping from last night’s rain. There were squirrel monkeys chattering overhead (José called them “titi” monkeys), and I swear one of them seemed to stare right back at me. I never thought I’d get that close to wildlife without glass between us.

The path was easy enough, even for someone like me who isn’t exactly hiking every weekend. We moved slow, stopping whenever José pointed out something—a tiny blue butterfly, a lizard sunning itself on a rock, or these weirdly elegant white-faced capuchins. He told us about the garrobos too (I think they’re some kind of iguana?), which made my nephew laugh because they look like mini dinosaurs. The air smelled like wet earth and fruit, sometimes sweet and sometimes almost spicy. It’s strange how you notice those things when you’re not rushing anywhere.

After what felt both long and short (time gets weird in the forest), we reached this beach—Playa Tres they called it. The sand was soft but not too hot yet; there were just a few other people around. We got snacks—fresh fruit mostly—and some cold juice that tasted way better than anything back home. Some folks swam; I just sat there watching the waves and thinking about how quiet everything felt compared to the start of the day. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy again.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and explore Manuel Antonio Park

• Start hike at 7:30am
• Follow well defined trails
• Spot monkeys, sloths, and birds
• Learn about flora and fauna
• Visit the 3rd beach
• Enjoy snack and rest
• Swim or relax at beach

Top questions

How long is the hiking tour in Manuel Antonio?

The hike starts around 7:30am and includes time on trails plus a 30-minute stop at Playa Tres beach.

Is hotel pickup included for this Manuel Antonio hike?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

What animals can you see during the hike?

You might spot monkeys (squirrel monkeys, capuchins), sloths, birds, reptiles like garrobos, butterflies, and more.

Is this tour suitable for kids or older adults?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels but children must be accompanied by an adult.

Are snacks or drinks provided on this tour?

You’ll get fresh snacks and beverages during your leisure stop at Playa Tres beach.

Can you swim during this Manuel Antonio hiking tour?

Yes—there’s time to swim or relax during the 30-minute break at Playa Tres beach.

How many people do you need to book this tour?

A minimum of two people per booking is required for this guided hike.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Quepos or Manuel Antonio hotels, guided nature walks led by a bilingual expert who points out wildlife along well-marked trails, plus fresh snacks and drinks served during your break at Playa Tres before heading back out of the park together.