Manuel Antonio National Park

Quepos, Costa Rica

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Manuel Antonio National Park, located near Quepos on Costa Rica's Pacific coast, is one of the country's smallest yet most visited national parks, known for its stunning natural beauty and abundant wildlife.

Established in 1972 to protect the area's rich ecosystems from development, the park covers about 683 hectares of tropical rainforest, mangroves, and pristine beaches. It supports diverse wildlife including three species of monkeys, both two-toed and three-toed sloths, coatis, raccoons, and over 180 bird species like toucans and scarlet macaws. The park features several beaches such as Manuel Antonio, Espadilla Sur, and Playita, where visitors can enjoy swimming, snorkeling, and hiking on well-maintained trails that include scenic viewpoints.

Despite its small size, Manuel Antonio offers a remarkable combination of lush jungle and Caribbean coastal charm, making it a top destination for ecotourism and wildlife viewing in Costa Rica.