Adventure brief
Night Walking Tour
Experience Costa Rica’s Manuel Antonio National Park like never before with a two-hour guided night walk, uncovering elusive wildlife and jungle sounds under the stars. Perfect for families and nature lovers ready for an off-the-beaten-path adventure.
Manuel Antonio National Park, located along Costa Rica’s Pacific coastline near the town of Quepos, offers one of the most accessible and biologically diverse rainforests in the country. Known for its combination of pristine beaches, dense jungle trails, and abundant wildlife, the park’s magic transforms after dark. Manuel Antonio Tours invites visitors into this nocturnal world with their Night Walking Tour, an expertly guided two-hour trek that reveals the park’s lesser-seen side.
Starting shortly after sunset, the tour is led by certified guides trained specifically in naturalist night hikes. These experts help visitors spot creatures that only emerge when the forest grows quiet and the stars blink overhead. Expect to encounter animals such as kinkajous, night monkeys, and tree frogs, whose vibrant calls and furtive movements paint a vivid picture of rainforest life after dark.
The trails wind through the park’s primary tropical forest — alive with towering trees, dense undergrowth, and occasional glimpses of the sea — offering a completely different perspective than daytime excursions. This nightwalking experience is ideal for families and adventurers eager to witness firsthand the sounds and shadows of Costa Rica’s wildlife at night. Manuel Antonio Tours stands out for their commitment to conservation, ensuring each trek minimizes disruption to sensitive habitats.
Their deep knowledge of local ecology adds a layer of education that enriches the adventure, emphasizing why Manuel Antonio National Park remains a jewel of Costa Rica’s protected lands. For visitors based in Quepos, this tour provides a unique way to connect with the environment beyond sunlit paths and crowded beach spots. It highlights a special side of the park that few get to see, making it a must-do for anyone wanting to dive deeper into the area’s wild character.
Adventure tips
Plan your experience.
Curated tips for an optimal adventure.
- 01Bring a flashlight with red lightessential
Red light preserves your night vision and disturbs wildlife less than white light.
- 02Wear sturdy, closed-toe shoesessential
Sticky trails and roots require reliable traction and foot protection in the dark.
- 03Dress in lightweight long sleeves and pantsinfo
Protect skin from insects and thorns while staying cool in humid conditions.
- 04Avoid using insect repellent before the tourwarning
Some repellent can interfere with spotting wildlife; check with guides for recommendations.
Recommended gear
What to bring.
Red-filter flashlight
Red light allows better night vision and reduces disturbance to wildlife during the tour.
EssentialWater bottle
Stay hydrated through warm, humid conditions in the park.
EssentialInsect repellent
Useful during wet and humid seasons to reduce mosquito bites, but check guide advice on application timing.
summerLightweight long sleeves and pants
Provides protection from insects and plants while keeping you cool on jungle trails.
EssentialLocal insights
Context for the journey.
Nearby secrets
Hidden mangrove stands near the park’s edge, Small tidal pools along the beach for spotting crabs and starfish
Local fauna
Kinkajou, Two-toed sloth
Historic heritage
Manuel Antonio National Park was established in 1972, one of Costa Rica's first national parks aimed at protecting endangered species.
Mindful exploration
Tour operators like Manuel Antonio Tours promote low-impact visits and work closely with park authorities to protect sensitive nocturnal habitats.
Photography tips
Capture the moments
- Viewpoints
- Main jungle trail sections, Forest edge near the beach, Park entrance area with star views
- Subjects
- Nocturnal wildlife, Forest under moonlight, Light and shadow contrasts on foliage
- Best times
- Just after sunset, Early evening, Clear moonlit nights
Frequently asked questions
Before you go.
What time does the tour start?
The tour begins at 5:30 PM; please arrive at 5:15 PM for check-in.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes, children 2 and under are free, and the tour welcomes families with kids aged 3 and above.
Are flashlights provided?
Guides often provide lighting, but bringing your own red-filter flashlight is recommended.
Do I need to book in advance?
Advance booking is advised as spots can fill quickly, especially in peak season.
What wildlife can I expect to see?
You may encounter nocturnal mammals like kinkajous, night monkeys, frogs, insects, and other nighttime creatures.
Is there wheelchair or stroller access?
Due to natural terrain and forest trails, the tour is not suitable for wheelchairs or strollers.