Manuel Antonio National Park:
Where Rainforest Meets the Ocean
There are few places on Earth where the vibrant heart of the rainforest stretches all the way to the edge of the sea — and Manuel Antonio National Park in Costa Rica is one of them. A rare convergence of lush jungle, powdery beaches, and turquoise waters, this national treasure is where nature’s contrasts blend in perfect harmony. It’s a destination where howler monkeys swing above you while iguanas sunbathe on the sand, and where the rhythm of the ocean hums in tune with the pulse of the forest.
Nestled along the Pacific Coast, just a few hours from the lively port town of Quepos, Manuel Antonio is both intimate in size and infinite in its biodiversity. Covering just 16 square kilometers, it’s one of the smallest parks in Costa Rica — but don’t let that fool you. Within its boundaries live more than 100 species of mammals, 180 species of birds, and a staggering variety of reptiles, amphibians, and butterflies. It’s not uncommon for visitors to encounter three types of monkeys — white-faced capuchins, howlers, and squirrel monkeys — all in a single hike.
But what makes Manuel Antonio truly special is the seamless way in which land and sea come together. Towering rainforest trees stretch out over soft, golden beaches. Trails wind through dense foliage and open suddenly to ocean panoramas so perfect, they feel like paintings. The waters here are calm and clear, ideal for swimming, snorkeling, or simply floating as scarlet macaws soar overhead and sloths peek out from the canopy.
At Kontiki Expeditions, we believe in connecting travelers with places that awaken the senses and stir the soul — and Manuel Antonio delivers that in every way. Whether it’s an early morning hike through misty jungle trails, a peaceful afternoon on the beach, or a wildlife encounter that takes your breath away, the park embodies the magic of Costa Rica. It’s not just about sightseeing — it’s about feeling a place, hearing its voice, and witnessing nature in its most authentic form.
For those joining us aboard the M/Y Kontiki Wayra, this park becomes more than a stop — it’s an immersive chapter of the journey. A moment to ground yourself in nature’s beauty, to reflect on the power of preservation, and to understand why Costa Rica has become a global symbol of eco-conscious exploration.
Because here, where rainforest meets the ocean, every step is a discovery — and every view, a memory in the making.