Flashback Friday: Manuel Antonio Park Costa Rica

I was thrilled to discover Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica. The park is considered one of the most beautiful and affordable national parks in the country, making it the perfect destination for budget-conscious travellers like myself.

For budget travellers, there are several affordable tour options available at Manuel Antonio National Park, including guided hikes, boat tours, and snorkelling excursions. The cost of admission to the park is only $16 per person, and there are no additional fees for guided tours, making it a great value.

I was travelling with G-Adventures, and our group took a guided hike through the park. The day started very early to ensure our entry to Manuel Antonio National Park. Visitors are limited, so line-ups form early and are very long by the time the park opens.

The history of Manuel Antonio National Park dates back to 1972, when it was declared a national park by the Costa Rican government. The park was established to protect the unique biodiversity and endangered species that reside within its boundaries and has since become a popular destination for tourists from all over the world.

Upon entering the park, I was immediately struck by its natural beauty and diverse wildlife. The park covers an area of approximately 1,700 hectares and is home to a variety of animals, including monkeys, sloths, exotic birds, and many more.

I was especially thrilled to see several species of monkeys, including the white-faced capuchin monkey, the squirrel monkey, and the howler monkey, all of which can be easily spotted in the park.

In addition to monkeys, the park is also home to a variety of other wildlife, including iguanas and raccoons. It is also a nesting site for sea turtles.

The park is also home to many species of exotic birds, and I was lucky enough to spot a few I had never seen previously during my visit, including a green heron and a beautiful toucan who posed nicely for me.

The park is open from 07:00 to 16:00, and it is recommended to arrive early in the morning to avoid the crowds. Visitors must leave the park by closing time. For those visiting the park on a budget, I would suggest bringing a good pair of hiking shoes, a hat, sunglasses, and plenty of water in non-plastic bottles. Food is not allowed in the park but there is a kiosk near the beach area with a cafeteria, changing rooms, and water fountains. When visiting the beach, hide all your belongings... the monkeys are very talented thieves.

My visit to Manuel Antonio National Park was one of the highlights of my trip to Costa Rica. The park's stunning beauty, diverse wildlife, and affordable tours make it the perfect destination for budget-conscious travellers. If you're looking for a budget-friendly adventure in Costa Rica, I highly recommend a visit to Manuel Antonio National Park.

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