National Parks
A Famous National Park and Mystical Monkey Forests Are Located in This Costa Rican Vacation Town.
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by Freya Stark
17-07-2024
National Parks
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by Freya Stark
17-07-2024
To see sloths, howler monkeys, and hidden white sand beaches on leisurely hikes, Manuel Antonio is the place to go.
While Costa Rica's more developed beach resorts may be more flashy, the enchantment of Manuel Antonio is truly representative of the country's splendor. Visit Manuel Antonio if you're in search of sloths, howler monkeys, and secluded white-sand beaches on leisurely treks. Rainforests, beaches, coral reefs, trekking, and incredible wildlife sightings all come together at the seven-square-mile Manuel Antonio National Park and the surrounding area. Local resident and president of Cayuga Sustainable Hospitality in Costa Rica, Hans Pfister, has been saying, "Manuel Antonio is very special as it combines beautiful beaches, rainforests, wildlife as well as spectacular views" since 1995. As the gateway to what many consider to be the most magnificent park in Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio exudes a distinct atmosphere befitting a lively resort town. You won't want to be anyplace else in the world than Manuel Antonio, where you'll feel like you're completely at home.
Perched on a 12-acre estate, El Parador offers breathtaking vistas. The family-friendly mini-golf course and monkey trail are right on the premises. Just a short stroll from El Parador (next to the property) is the hidden Biesanz Beach, so be sure to inquire about directions there. There, you may join the locals in renting paddleboards, getting massages, or drinking coconut juice while lounging on the beach. The sloth known as Flash often visits the pool, so please tell him hello. According to Andre Robles, a local tour operator, the cove is ideal for swimming and snorkeling due to its tranquil waters. Going there is as simple as following a path through the jungle; it's a hidden gem that many sightseers fail to notice.
Jim Damalas, an eco-tourist, established SicomoNo, which features a butterfly atrium and a wildlife sanctuary. With both adult-only and family-friendly spaces, this hotel has something for everyone. Views of the ocean and rain forest are available to guests.
Manuel Antonio Park is within walking distance from Costa Verde. Rooms, bungalows, and private casitas abound, and those seeking something truly special can even book a suite in a restored vintage aeroplane. The most recent extension, the SkyLoft, features accommodations within a 1982 McDonald Douglas MD-82 and an ocean-view patio with a soaking tub.
Featuring 67 rooms and situated adjacent to Manuel Antonio National Park's entrance, the San Bada is home to the area's largest pool, complete with pool bar and artificial waterfalls. Sushi bar, private farm, and spa with rainforest views are all available here.
Guests of the beachside treasure Arenas del Mar have reported spotting hummingbirds, capuchin monkeys, tree frogs, and sloths from their accommodations. There are two swimming pools, surf classes, and direct beach access. As part of their Dock to Dish initiative, participating restaurants provide patrons with seafood that has just been caught that day.
You may even stay in an igloo on the beach at the Igloo Beach Lodge in Manuel Antonio. Just a short stroll from Espadilla Beach, these air-conditioned rooms provide garden views, pool access, and a convenient location.
With its verdant forests, exotic animals, and beautiful beaches, Manuel Antonio National Park is one of the top Costa Rican attractions, as included in Travel & Leisure's 20 Best Things to Do list. Having a skilled guide makes your experience even better, according to Robles. "The biodiversity here is incredible." Capuchin monkeys, iguanas, crabs, pelicans, frogs, butterflies, a variety of birds, and two-and three-toed sloths are just a few of the numerous wildlife you can view in the seven square kilometers of the park. According to Pfister, Manuel Antonio is known as the capital of Costa Rica for ecological trips and activities. Oceans, rivers, waterfalls, rainforests, and more await you in your journeys. In my opinion, you could keep yourself occupied for an entire month by doing something new every day.
Playa Manuel Antonio is a beautiful beach in Manuel Antonio National Park with white sand and underwater coral reefs; bring binoculars, a snorkel, and a hammock if you want to locate your own little heaven and spend a long.
Protecting the diverse marine ecosystems that make up Marino Ballena National Park is a top priority for the country's newest national park. On the Pacific coast of Central America, you may see some of the biggest coral formations in this park. El Paso de Moises, a natural phenomena that occurs during low tide and resembles the route from the biblical story, is one of the most popular attractions in the park.
A perfect natural haven, the mangroves of Damas Island are home to a variety of flora and fauna, as well as meandering streams. Boat tours, wildlife viewing, and immersion in a flourishing coastal ecology are just a few of the eco-adventure activities it provides. Explore the complex system of mangrove waterways and see a wide variety of plants and animals in their native environment.
Lush mangrove forests, meandering waterways, and an abundance of species define the Damas Island mangrove as an unspoiled natural haven. Unique eco-adventure options abound, including boat cruises, wildlife viewing, and complete immersion in a vibrant coastal habitat. Tourists can observe a wide variety of plants and animals in their native environment as they meander through the complex system of mangrove waterways.
Want to experience the thrill of flying? Zip lining and abseiling down waterfalls are two activities that can be incorporated into canopy tours.
In perfect waters brimming with thrilling game species like marlin, sailfish, mahi-mahi, and more, you can enjoy world-class fishing.
Kids Saving the jungle takes tours of their facility that helps wounded or abandoned jungle creatures. Visitors to the jungle preserve run by Kids Saving the Rainforest have a chance to witness a wide variety of monkeys, parrots, kinkajous, and tamarins. Chocolate Tour The Salazar Garcia family has been farming a 10-acre plot in the Mastatal mountains for decades, and their La Iguana Chocolate tour gives dessert fans an intimate bean-to-bar experience.
Margaritas, daquiris, and grass-fed beef from neighboring La Fortuna are on the menu at El Lagarto Steak House.
Enjoy excellent seafood, breathtaking sunset views, and world-renowned sangria at Ronny's Place.
At Emilio's Cafe, you can enjoy delicious breakfasts, freshly brewed coffee, and live music every night of the week.
Enjoy fusion cuisine from Latin America and Spain while gazing out along the ocean at Buena Vista ocean Club.
Vegan Varuna serves up vegan treats, nutritious bowls (with zoodles!), and fresh juice.
The dry season lasts from December to April and is characterized by sunny skies and little precipitation. It's the perfect time to go trekking, to the beach, or to see wildlife. On the other hand, costs will be higher and crowds will be more numerous because this is peak tourist season.
The green season, which lasts from May to November, is characterized by more rainfall, reduced pricing, and verdant landscapes and vivid rainforests. This is the best time of year for whitewater rafting due to the increased river levels.
