Private Manuel Antonio National Park tour with naturalist guide

Hike the trails, spot sloths and monkeys, then swim at the park's beaches

A private guided tour of Manuel Antonio National Park led by a certified naturalist who points out wildlife along hiking trails, then gives you beach time within the park. The guide carries Swarovski optics so you see animals (sloths, monkeys, toucans, hummingbirds, frogs) in sharp detail. Park entry, private shuttle service in the Manuel Antonio area, and photos from the day are included.

Step-by-step itinerary

Explore Manuel Antonio National Park

• Enter Manuel Antonio National Park
• Join guided nature tour
• Spot wildlife on hiking trails
• Relax on park beaches

The experience

The tour starts with entry into Manuel Antonio National Park, where your guide leads you along trails through different habitats. The naturalist (Robert Umaña or another certified guide) carries professional-grade Swarovski optics so you can watch wildlife at a distance without disturbing them. You'll spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, hummingbirds, colorful frogs and insects as the guide explains what you're seeing. The trails move at a pace that suits all fitness levels.

After the hike, you get beach time on one of the park's pristine shores, where lush greenery meets the sand. The private shuttle picks you up in the Manuel Antonio area and handles transport throughout, so you don't need to arrange your own way around. The guide takes photos during the nature walk and shares them with you afterward. Bring your passport or ID card. The ranger may ask to see it, though normally they don't.

What’s included

• Private shuttle service in the Manuel Antonio area.
• park entrance fee.
• professional Swarovski optics for wildlife viewing.
• photos from the nature activity.
• fresh fruits.
• English-speaking certified naturalist guide.

Before you book

Days and timesEvery day except Tuesday

AgesAdult (18 to 65 years) · Senior (66 and older) · Youth (12 to 17 years) · Child (4 to 11 years) · Under 4: can't be booked

GroupPrivate

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and German

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup is optional; you can also go straight to the meeting point. Ends back at the starting point.You can choose from 7 pickup points.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.

Prices and times updated today

Good to know

Low physical effortWheelchair accessibleAccessible transportPublic transport nearby

Operated by Travel and Birding

Is this one for you?Book this if you want a private group, just your party, with a guide who carries optics so you actually see the animals clearly, rather than scanning the canopy on your own. The small group size means the guide can move at your pace and spend time on the wildlife you want to watch.

Traveler reviews

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Top questions

What languages is the tour guided in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and German.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Youth (12 to 17 years); Child (4 to 11 years). Children under 4 can't be included in the booking.

What animals will I actually see in Manuel Antonio National Park?

Sloths, monkeys, toucans, hummingbirds, colorful frogs and insects live in the park's different habitats. Your guide uses Swarovski optics to help you spot them clearly along the trails without getting too close.

How much time do I spend hiking versus on the beach?

The tour runs three hours total. Most of that time is spent on the guided nature walks through the trails. The remaining time is beach time within the park boundaries.

Is the shuttle included, or do I need to arrange my own transport?

Private shuttle service in the Manuel Antonio area is included. The guide picks you up and handles transport throughout the day.

What do I need to bring or know before I go?

Bring your passport or ID card in case the ranger asks to see it. Plastic and food are not allowed inside the park. The guide speaks English and is certified by the Costa Rican tourism board (ICT).