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Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio: The Most Visited Park in Costa Rica

By Jane Goodwin | March 28, 2007

Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio is probably the most popular park in Costa Rica, and there are many good reasons for that statistic. Let’s start with the geography.

You can see by this aerial photograph that the Park was once an island, just off the coast. Because it was once isolated from the mainland, the Park still maintains unique wildlife and plants that must be seen to be believed: an amazing variety of exotic animal and bird species can be seen here. The sandbar, called Tombolo Beach, that now connects the island to the mainland was built up over a period of many years, and is itself a major attraction with its soft white sand.

The park has an incredible variety of just about everything. Not only are the plants and animals amazing, but there is also a lush rainforest, amazingly beautiful coral reefs, and some of the best beaches in the entire world. Manuel Antonio is a snorkeler’s delight, and the swimming is fantastic here, too.

If you are an animal lover, you will be in Paradise on Manuel Antonio. We have sloths, iguanas, peccaries, armadillo, coatimundis, macaws, and many varieties of monkeys, and MORE. We have over 350 different bird species, so don’t forget to bring your binoculars as well as your camera.

Are you a hiker? Because of the scenic vistas provided by the volcanic-sedimentary cliffs, and the lush rainforests, Manuel Antonio has many beautiful trails, from the easily traversed to the more difficult for experienced hikers. Fresh drinking water may be obtained at the Ranger Station. Restrooms may be found there, too. (Those are two very important issues, you know.)

Manuel Antonio is easily accessed by car or bus, and you can also get here via a short 20-minute flight via Sansa or Nature Air. Once in the park, you may experience it all on your own, or you may hire a guide. The park also has an open-air museum full of interesting things and information.

Manuel Antonio National Park’s reputation as the most-visited park in Costa Rica is well-earned. Come see for yourself!

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