10 Manuel Antonio Tours Worth Booking (and How to Choose)

The tours most visitors to Manuel Antonio book are a guided walk in the national park, a boat or catamaran trip along the coast, and one adventure day such as ziplining or rafting. Add a night tour if you love wildlife, and a mangrove trip if you want something calm. Book the park and boat trips early in your stay, and keep the afternoon free after any big adventure.

How to choose

• Short on time? Start with the national park and one ocean trip.
• Traveling with children? Pick shorter tours with shade and breaks: the park, mangroves, a calm boat trip.
• Want a thrill? Choose one adrenaline tour, not three. Your legs will need a rest day.
• Rainy season? Book outdoor tours for the morning, and ask about rescheduling if heavy rain hits.

Our concierge team can help match tours to your group, and you can send requests through our tours form.

1. Guided walk in Manuel Antonio National Park

The classic. A licensed naturalist carries a spotting scope and finds sloths, monkeys, birds and frogs you would walk right past. Most walks end near the park beaches so you can swim afterward.

• When: as early as possible. The park is closed on Tuesdays and tickets are sold online in advance.
• Wear: light clothes, walking shoes, swimsuit underneath.
• Good for: everyone, including families.

2. Catamaran or boat trip with snorkeling

A relaxed half day along the coast with a snorkel stop, drinks and often dolphins. Sunset departures are popular with couples.

• Wear: swimwear, a cover-up and sandals. Bring a towel.
• Good for: families, couples, anyone who wants an easy day.

See our ocean and boat tours.

3. Rainforest night tour

After dark the forest belongs to frogs, insects, sleeping birds and night animals. A guide with a strong flashlight turns an ordinary path into a new world.

• Wear: long pants, closed shoes and repellent. Bring a small flashlight.
• Good for: curious kids and wildlife fans.

4. Ziplining

Cables and platforms high in the canopy, with views over the forest. Tours include safety gear and a briefing.

• Wear: closed shoes and comfortable clothes. Skip loose skirts and dangling jewelry.
• Good for: first-timers and thrill-seekers. Check the minimum age and weight limits.

5. ATV tour

A guided ride on dirt roads and trails through the hills, often with a stop at a waterfall. It gets muddy.

• Wear: clothes you do not mind ruining, closed shoes, sunglasses and a bandana for dust.
• Good for: adults and teens who like to drive.

6. Whitewater rafting

The Savegre and Naranjo rivers near Manuel Antonio are both rafted. Gentler sections suit families, while wilder stretches suit experienced paddlers, depending on the river and the season.

• Wear: swimsuit, quick-dry clothes and water shoes or strapped sandals.
• Good for: active groups. Ask the operator which river and section fit your group.

Our adventure tours page lists the current options.

7. Mangrove tour by kayak or boat

The Damas Island mangroves near Quepos are calm, shady and full of birds. You may see monkeys, crabs and crocodiles from a safe distance.

• Wear: hat, light clothes and sandals.
• Good for: families, birders and anyone who wants a quiet morning.

8. Sport fishing

Quepos is a well-known fishing port. Offshore trips target sailfish and marlin (released), dorado and tuna; inshore trips target roosterfish and snapper. Read our sport fishing guide before you book.

• Wear: long sleeves, hat, polarized sunglasses and non-slip shoes.
• Good for: anglers of every level. Half days suit beginners.

9. Coffee and chocolate farm visit

A slower day in the countryside. You see how coffee and cacao are grown and processed, and you taste as you go.

• Wear: comfortable clothes and closed shoes; bring a hat.
• Good for: food lovers, families and rainy days.

10. Whale and dolphin watching

Dolphins are often seen on boat trips all year. Humpback whales visit the Pacific coast in two periods each year; ask operators about recent sightings before you book.

• Wear: swimwear, a cover-up and sandals. Bring sunscreen and a light layer.
• Good for: families and marine life fans.

Tips for any tour

• Tipping: tipping guides and crews is customary in Costa Rica for good service. Carry some small bills in dollars or colones.
• Pickup times: many tours include hotel pickup. Be ready ten minutes early.
• Photos: a phone in a waterproof pouch is enough for most trips.
• Rest days: alternate active days with easy ones. The pool and a massage at the Jungle Spa count as a tour too.

Traveling with children? See our family-friendly activities. Mostly here for animals? Start with our wildlife and nature tours.

FAQ

What is the one tour I should not miss in Manuel Antonio?

A guided walk in the national park. A good guide shows you animals you would never find alone, and you can finish with a swim at the park beaches.

How far ahead should I book tours?

In the dry season and holidays, book the park and popular boat trips a few days to a few weeks ahead. In the green season you can often book a day or two before. Park tickets must be bought online in advance all year.

Are tours in Manuel Antonio good for kids?

Many are. The national park, mangrove trips, catamaran rides and farm visits all work well for children. Adventure tours have age and height limits, so check before booking.

Can I do two tours in one day?

You can, for example a morning park walk and a sunset boat trip. Avoid pairing two strenuous tours, and leave time to eat and rest in between.

Ready to plan your days? Check availability and rates or send us your tour wish list.