rainforest tour quepos

RAINMAKER PARK TOUR

Hanging Bridges and waterfalls Tour 

Rainmaker Park History

Rainmaker Park is one of the most important rainforest reserves in Costa Rica. Its evergreen primary forest habitat is home to a large number of species. Plus being a spectacular park with an amazing scenery full of breathtaking waterfalls. This is as well a hot spot for herpetology and ornithology in Costa Rica. 

Therefore we have the nature day tour, as well as the night tours every single day year around in the Rainmaker Park. 

Rainmaker Park is an important rainforest for scientific herpetology studies. Here at Rainmaker Park you'll have big chances to observe glass frogs, poison dart frogs, red eyed three frogs and a huge number of snake species.

As a primary rainforest Rainmaker Park has a countless number of bird species. Here at Rainmaker Park you'll have chances to observe toucans, hummingbirds, tanagers, mot mots trogons and more...

Rainmaker Park is the best option to see a rainforest with waterfalls. The Rainmaker forest offers a big number of waterfalls where you can make some great photographs, as well as having a fun refreshing dip in the natural swimming pools.

Testimonials

“We really loved this tour. The rainforest of Rainmaker Park is amazing.”

“We come to Costa Rica every year and always visit the Rainmaker Park with Jade Tours. This is the best tour.”

The Robertsons

“I highly recommend this tour. Rainmaker Park is hundred times better than the Manuel Antonio Park”

Jody and Tom Larson

Rainmaker Park is one of the highlights of our offerings and is a must-visit for anyone interested in nature. This pristine rainforest is located in the heart of Costa Rica and supports an intricate ecosystem of flora and fauna. Our Rainmaker Park tour takes you on a journey through the forest, highlighted by cascading waterfalls, exotic bird species, and an abundance of plantlife. Jade Tours takes high pride in offering tours that are informative, engaging, and, of course, fun for the whole family.

"Only during adventures people manage to know and find themselves." “"

Mario Brenes 

Costa Rica Jade Tours, Manuel Antonio, Quepos, Costa Rica 

Legal Name: Costa Rica Jade Tours S.A

Legal ID Number: 3 101 599778

Contact Information: 

Phone: +50686328760

Email: [email protected]

• Quepos - Costa Rica
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10 + Family Adventures

20 Platforms

11 Zip Lines

2 Rappel Lines

Tarzan Swing

Suspension Bridge

Serpent House

Butterfly Garden

Crocodile Pond

La Ranita Lookout

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When visiting costa rica, quepos and manuel antonio are a must. don't miss them, wildlife tours, fun adventures, beautiful beaches, safe and friendly, what they’re talking about.

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Costa Rica Escape

• Helicopter over volcanos
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• Raft the Sarapiqui River
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• Visit the Caribbean world
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• Enjoy Isla Tortuga’s beaches
• Discover diverse tropical ecosystem

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• Visit Golfo de Chiriquí

Panama and Costa Rica by Sea: The Natural Wonders of Central America – with Smithsonian Journeys

• Cross the Panama Canal
• Punta Culebra Nature Center at STRI
• Snorkel on beautiful Holandes Cayes
• See Darién National Park rainforest

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10 Best Things to Do in Manuel Antonio National Park & Quepos

Home » Destinations » 10 Best Things to Do in Manuel Antonio National Park & Quepos

The ideal blend of beach and rainforest, Manuel Antonio is the top destination for travelers of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific Coast. The rich biodiversity of this area, coupled with a wealth of tours and activities, offers something for everyone. The adjacent town of Quepos serves as the gateway for visitors arriving by car and plane. You won’t find any massive all-inclusive resorts in Manuel Antonio; the mid-size boutique hotels are designed into the rainforest hillside, offering incredible views of the Pacific and lush tropical surroundings.  Families, couples, groups, and even solo travelers can find enough to do in Manuel Antonio to fill an entire week, at least. These are the Costa Rica Experts recommendations for the best things to do in Manuel Antonio and Quepos area:

Visit Manuel Antonio National Park.

Aerial view of Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio is the smallest national park in Costa Rica but one of the most popular. Visitors come to catch a glimpse of Capuchin, Howler, and Squirrel Monkeys, sloths, iguanas, agoutis, and hundreds of species of birds before hitting one of the park’s beautiful beaches.

In a recent attempt to curb visitor influence on the park’s ecological balance, the Costa Rica government has mandated a limit on daily visitors to the park at around 1200 people per day. Book an early morning guided tour of the park with a professional naturalist guide to avoid the crowds and increase your odds of seeing more wildlife. Naturalist guides have an eye and an ear for locating wildlife that most people miss. Manuel Antonio National Park is closed on Tuesdays.

Hiking in Manuel Antonio National Park

You’re sure to see plenty of wildlife throughout your stay in the Manuel Antonio region, but hiking the trails within Manuel Antonio National Park will certainly bring you up close to many of the shyer rainforest animals. Plus you’ll get to take in the rainforest views from a unique vantage point. The main trail within the park is a 1.3-mile flat, sandy trail that links the park’s beaches. This trail is perfect for travelers of all ages. Our Experts recommend visiting the park with a professional, naturalist guide and hitting the trails early to avoid crowds and see more wildlife! Another slightly more challenging trail for the adventurous is  Punta Catedral,  a beautiful 0.9-mile loop trail of moderate difficulty and some steep inclines. The trail is accessible from both Manuel Antonio Beach and Espadilla Sur Beach.

Related Article: 16 Best Hikes in Costa Rica

Hit the Manuel Antonio Beaches.

Inside Manuel Antonio National Park are some of the region’s best beaches – Escondido Beach , Manuel Antonio Beach , and Espadilla Sur can all be accessed via low-intensity trails. There are great options outside of the park, too. Playa Manuel Antonio and the long stretch of beach known as Playa Espadilla are the main scenes for Manuel Antonio’s visitors. You can find drink stands, surf lessons, snack bars, souvenir vendors, parasailing, and all kinds of beachy fun walking down Espadilla. If you’ve already explored the beaches inside the park, head to Playa Biesanz , located in a crescent bay on the end of Quepos Point, opposite Playa Espadilla. Because of environmental restrictions, the hotels in the Manuel Antonio area are not beachfront but set cliff-side with sweeping views. Only a few Manuel Antonio hotels  have direct beach access; Arenas del Mar Beach & Nature Resort is located on Playitas Beach and guests of Tulemar Resort have direct access to their own quiet stretch of sand.

Related Article: Best Beaches of Costa Rica

Surf Lessons

If you want to try out surfing during your Costa Rica vacation, Manuel Antonio is a great place to learn the basics. Those with more advanced surf skills might find the waves on Playa Espadilla less intimidating than the waves of Nazaré or Oahu’s North Shore, but still worth a paddle out.  Surf lessons can be arranged as part of your pre-planned vacation package or you can ask your hotel concierge about board rentals at check-in. The southern end of the beach at high tide is good for beginning surfers, while the northern end of the beach often sees bigger waves. If you have a rental car, consider driving south to some of the beaches near Dominical or Uvita for some extra surfing opportunities away from the crowds.

Marina Paz Vela – Quepos Sportfishing

Sportfishing from Quepos is a must-do for fishing enthusiasts who find themselves on the Central Pacific coast. Quepos has been called the Sailfish Capital of the World, but depending on the season, you might also reel in marlin, tuna, dorado, wahoo, snook, roosterfish, and snapper. Marina Paz Vela is the best place to start your fishing adventures, with 195 boat slips, floating concrete docks, and a custom-designed dam system to protect the many vessels that operate in the marina’s waterfront. Paz Vela can arrange fishing tours, catamaran cruises, parasailing, jet ski excursions, and more. The commercial plaza offers 5 restaurants, a full-service deli & bakery, and a gelato shop.

Related Article:   Top Destinations for Sportfishing in Costa Rica

Explore the Damas Island Mangrove Estuary.

Cruise the waterways of Damas Island Estuary on a boat or kayaking tour. Just a 15-20 minute drive from the Manuel Antonio hotels, Isla Damas is a unique coastal ecosystem where monkeys, snakes, sloths, and crocodiles slink about the waterways and contribute to the ecological landscape. This is a wonderful adventure for travelers of all ages and activity levels; both the boat tour and the kayaking tour are done with a naturalist guide who will explain the intricate balance of rainforest life in one of the planet’s most important environments.

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Hike and Swim at the Nauyaca Waterfalls

Nauyaca Waterfalls

About an hour south of Manuel Antonio, adventurous travelers can find the impressive Nauyaca Waterfalls, tucked away in the mountains off the coast of Dominical. This is a great day excursion for anyone who wants to go beyond the main Manuel Antonio area and experience the country’s most picturesque waterfall scenery. Join a guided tour and spend the day hiking and swimming in this natural wonder, which boasts two tiers of cascades. Costa Rica Experts tip: Nauyaca isn’t the only waterfall in the South Pacific region – take the Full-Day Waterfall Adventure Tour for a more in-depth excursion off the beaten path.

Taste the Local Flavors on a Food Tour.

Manuel Antonio is known for its national park full of wildlife and warm Pacific beaches, but there’s also something to be said for its culinary traditions. If you’re interested in learning about the real Costa Rica – beyond the zip-lines and beach resorts – the ‘Local Flavor’ food tour in Manuel Antonio will give you the perfect taste. You’ll have a hand in picking out local products at the market, which will then be prepared into a delicious meal of Costa Rican staples as you learn about agricultural and culinary traditions on a local ranch.

Explore After Sunset on a Guided Night Tour.

The night tour taken from Arenas del Mar Resort

In Costa Rica, the sun usually sets between 5:30 pm and 6:00 pm – the perfect time to find out what happens in the rainforest after dark! Check out the night tour at Sukia Park to learn about the secrets of the local rainforest inhabitants, like tropical frogs and exotic reptiles. This tour is a highlight for wildlife lovers and anyone who is nocturnal by nature.

Whitewater Rafting on Rio Savegre (class II-III)

Arenal isn’t the only place to catch an adrenaline rush in Costa Rica. If you’re craving a bit of adventure during your time in Manuel Antonio, the Savegre River is the perfect whitewater experience for beginners and rafting enthusiasts alike. The inland rainforest river scenery is a highlight of the trip, which includes a hearty picnic lunch.

Immerse Yourself on a Costa Rica Cultural Tour.

The nearby mountain village of Santa Juana feels a world away from bustling Manuel Antonio, providing a unique escape into the campesino lifestyle of rural Costa Rica. Located 45 minutes in the Central Pacific mountains, it’s an easy day trip from Manuel Antonio hotels. On the tour of Santa Juana village, guests are given the chance to try traditional Costa Rican cooking, tilapia fishing, and jump in a hidden waterfall.

Costa Rica Experts Tip: For the full immersive Santa Juana experience, spend 2 nights at Santa Juana Lodge on your way to/from Manuel Antonio.

Manuel Antonio Restaurants and Dining Options:

Fresh ceviche from Mirador, Arenas del Mar Resort

Dining on freshly caught seafood that goes right from dock to dish, fresh tropical fruits, and a surprising variety of international cuisine mixed with Costa Rican staples. Given its beachy vibe, the “downtown” part of Manuel Antonio – on the south end of Playa Espadilla near the entrance to the Manuel Antonio National Park – offers appropriately casual restaurant options with a Costa Rican twist. This small strip is home to Restaurant Baru and Marlin Restaurant , both solid options for a casual lunch or dinner overlooking the beach. While you’re there, you can also hit up Shibuya for sushi or Baldi’s Fresh for smoothies and other familiar treats.

For Thai, check out Samui or head to Enso for great sushi. Café Milagro is still one of the best spots in town for coffee and bakery-style bites. There are also a number of casual bars and grille restaurants along the main road that offer live music, drink specials, and typical Costa Rican food.

Unique and Picture-Worthy Dining

Looking for something unique and picture-worthy? En Todas is a repurposed school bus that evolved into Manuel Antonio’s most beloved beach-adjacent restaurant. The picnic table setup is the perfect casual spot for burgers or fish tacos after a day of fun and sun. Head up the road to El Avion – Manuel Antonio’s famous airplane restaurant to round out a day of transportation-themed dining.

Upscale Dining

The more upscale dining is typically found at the hotel restaurants; Karolas at Los Altos Resort and La Luna at Gaia Reserve are long-time favorites. Check out Claro Que Si Seafood restaurant at Hotel Si Como No for the special whole-fried snapper! Mirador restaurant at beachfront Arenas del Mar is the perfect blend of elegant and beachy fine dining.

Vegan and Vegetarian Restaurants

Vegan and vegetarian diners have great options in the Manuel Antonio dining scene. As its name suggests, Casa Planta is focused on bolstering its menu with ample plant-based selections. Manuel Antonio Falafel Bar isn’t specifically vegan, but the Mediterranean menu naturally caters to folks who don’t consume animal products. Near the park entrance, you’ll find Natural Food , and Varuna is a plant-based food and juice bar.

Manuel Antonio FAQ:

• Arenal: 4.5 - 5.5 hours by ground or 30-minute private flight
• Monteverde: 3 hours
• Jaco/Playa Herradura: 1 – 1.5 hours
• Uvita/Ojochal: 1 – 1.5 hours
• Sierpe: 1.5 - 2 hours
• Drake Bay: 1.5 - 2 hours by ground to Sierpe + 1 hour by boat on the Sierpe River
• Puerto Jimenez: 3.5 hours by ground
• San Jose: 2.5 - 3 hours by ground or 30-minute domestic flight
• Central Highlands (San Ramon, Bajos del Toro, La Paz): 3 – 4 hours

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Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest ATV Tour in Costa Rica

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(Manuel Antonio ATV Tour to Waterfalls & Rainmaker Rainforest Reserve from Quepos & Manuel Antonio)

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Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest ATV Tour Details

Manuel Antonio ATV Tour Includes:

• Round-Trip transportation from most Quepos & Manuel Antonio & nearby hotels & villas
• Fully-Equipped semi-automatic Honda ATV
• Safety gear and instruction
• Bilingual off-road ATV guide
• 12 miles of trail riding through an African Palm Forest & local villages
• Entrance fee to Rainmaker Rainforest Reserve
• 1 mile hike through Rainmaker Rainforest
• Swim in natural pool
• Fruit & cookie refreshments
• Bottled water
• Traditional Costa Rican meal of chicken, beans & rice, salad & fried plantains. Vegetarian option available as well

Departures: Three times daily: 7:30am, 11:00am, and 2:30pm. Pick up times start 30 minutes prior. Exact meeting instructions will be provided on your confirmation voucher.

Length: Approximately 4 hours including transportation.

Manuel Antonio ATV Tour Recommendations:

• Comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting dirty
• Secure closed-toe shoes comfortable for hiking
• Swimsuit (under your clothes)
• (Optional) Change of clothes for after the tour (Consider bringing a re-used plastic bag to store your wet clothes as you will get very wet and muddy)
• Eco-friendly sun protection (UV protective clothing or biodegradable sunblock so as not to damage the waterfall)
• Eco friendly insect repellent
• Small day pack to store items while on the ride & hike
• Refillable water bottle
• Camera (Waterproof or protective casing suggested)
• Cash for tour balance & tips for your guides

Children: Minimum age to drive is 16 years old with a valid driver’s license. Children as young as 5 can ride with their parents. Parents will be expected to sign a waiver taking responsibility for their child.

Restrictions: Must be in good physical condition with no back or neck injuries or any other conditions that prevent you from operating the ATVs safely. You will be expected to sign a waiver of consent to driver the vehicles at your own risk.

Insider's tip: The Fourtrax Manuel Anotion ATV tour is the original ATV tour in Manuel Antonio, and the route is still one of the best around. The Rainmaker Biological Reserve is a really an incredible place to spot wildlife. Maybe even better than Manuel Antonio National Park because there are a lot fewer people that visit here.

*Important Note: Listed prices are based on a cash discount. If you wish to pay the balance with a credit card, additional sales tax and card processing fees may be added to the balance due. Taxes are already included in the deposit amount. Our tours are covered by risk liability insurance, however if you cause damage to the ATVs due to negligent driving on your part, you will be held financially responsible for the damages. It is important to follow the guides instructions at all times. If you can do that, you will have a great time worry free.

** PLEASE NOTE: Due to the strictly enforced sales tax law that has been introduced in Costa Rica, sales tax may be added to the final payment made to the operator. Sales tax is already included in the deposit amount.

About Your Online Reservation: Booking online does not guarantee that spaces are available and your reservation is confirmed. Our reservation offices are open from 8:00 am to 8:00 pm CST daily and we do our best to confirm your reservation and send your confirmed voucher with meeting instructions within 24 hours. If you are booking a tour in less than 24 hours in advance, we recommend you contact us to check availability for you.

Reserve Your Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest ATV Tour in Costa Rica Now

Single atv + lunch:.

Retail: $110.00

The Real Deal: $100.00

Double ATV + Lunch:

Retail: $140.00

The Real Deal: $130.00

Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest ATV Tour in Costa Rica deposit is $20.00 per Single ATV and $25.00 for Double ATV. (The balance of $80.00 in cash per Single ATV and $105.00 per Double ATV must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at three different times.

Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest Off Road Buggy Tour Details

Manuel Antonio Side by Side Buggy Tour Includes:

• Fully-Equipped 750 cc Honda Side by Side off road buggy up to 5 pax
• Bilingual off-road buggy guide

Manuel Antonio Side by Side Buggy Tour Recommendations:

Children: Minimum age to drive a buggy is 18 years old with a valid driver’s license. Children as young as 5 can ride with their parents. Our off road buggies comfortable fit 2 adults and 3 kids. Parents will be expected to sign a waiver taking responsibility for their child.

Insider's tip: The Fourtrax Manuel Antonio ATV tour is the original ATV tour in Manuel Antonio, and the route is still one of the best around. The Rainmaker Biological Reserve is a really an incredible place to spot wildlife. Maybe even better than Manuel Antonio National Park because there are a lot fewer people that visit here. There are limited buggies available. So we recommend you booking the buggy well in advance.

Reserve Your Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest Off Road Buggy Tour Now

Buggy for 2 pax + lunch:.

Retail: $250.00

The Real Deal: $240.00

Buggy For 3 Pax + Lunch:

Retail: $260.00

The Real Deal: $250.00

Buggy For 4 Pax + Lunch:

Retail: $270.00

The Real Deal: $260.00

Buggy For 5 Pax + Lunch:

Retail: $280.00

The Real Deal: $270.00

Manuel Antonio Waterfall & Rainforest Off Road Buggy deposit is $30.00 per Buggy. (The balance of $210.00 in cash per Buggy For 2 Pax, $220.00 in cash per Buggy For 3 Pax, $230.00 in cash per Buggy For 4 Pax and $240.00 in cash per Buggy For 5 Pax must be paid the day of the tour) This tour departs at three different times.

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The Real Deal Tours

Welcome to Rainforest Spices

At villa vanilla spice farm, book your tour today.

The tour has a minimum number of guests (2) required to operate. While unlikely, it is possible that the tour will not reach the minimum. In this case you will be notified of the cancellation and a refund / rescheduling will be issued.

Villa Vanilla Spice Farm

Villa Vanilla is a family run farm that was founded in 1987 by Henry Karczynski. Born in Germany and raised in urban Chicago, Illinois, Henry studied business and worked in commerce for several years before finding his true vocation in life. It was until 1975, when he joined the Peace Corps as a volunteer that he got involved in agricultural development. He worked as a long term project manager for several Non- Government Organizations (NGO) and as a short term consultant in a half a dozen countries in Central America and the Caribbean.

About the Tour

Our tour is completely hands-on and will satisfy the curiosity of tourgoers of all ages. You will use all of your senses to navigate the farm while identifying an interesting variety of spices such as our beloved vanilla, true ceylon cinnamon, cacao, black pepper, allspice, turmeric and variety of exotic fruits and medicinal plants.

What People Say

Excellent tour of a small local spice farm This was an excellent tour! The guide was incredibly knowledgeable and we got to see and taste some interesting spices. We learned all about how chocolate is made. We saw how peppercorns are grown, tasted the bark of the cinnamon tree, picked allspice berries. Great tour and fun gift shop. Written January 28, 2023

Very Interesting Really fascinating. My wife and I went this afternoon, and we had Joyce as our guide. She knows her stuff and is very down to earth and personable. The tour includes a tasting sampler of ice cream, hot chocolate and a number of other items that show off the spices discussed and displayed on the tour. Written January 28, 2023

Joyce gave a very informative tour. We really enjoyed all the knowledge of spices. It was so good to sample the cacao and all the other spices. The property is beautiful and we would have enjoyed that alone. Written January 27, 2023

Our tour was so informative, the samples were delicious and the spices very reasonably priced. But, the really awesome thing, we took a wrong turn via Waze and would up stuck in a ditch a few miles from the farm. It was pouring rain our phone wouldn’t work so I walked down this hill found a phone at a family home and called the farm asking for help, they came and Pulled us out and saved us only in Costa Rica would people be soooo kind. Thank you Pura Vida. Written January 26, 2023

Such an educational and uniquely fun experience. Our tour guide Joyce was so kind and answered all of our group’s questions. We learned so much about the process of growing not only vanilla, but also chocolate, cardamom, cinnamon, pepper, and allspice – just to name a few. We also had a pleasant surprise of tasting a bunch of drinks and snacks made with ingredients grown on the farm. Would highly recommend this tour for anyone visiting Quepos or Manuel Antonio! Written January 23, 2023

Wonderful tour! Very hands on. We learned so much about spices and tasting them was amazing. Walking through the farm and seeing the diversity of plants was magical! Highly recommended! Written January 9, 2023

The best tour in Costa Rica! Villa Vanilla was the best part of our trip. We lived in Costa Rica for three + years and this was still the best tour. There was so much information and we were all totally engaged in everything our guide was talking about, we learned the most about sustainable agriculture and the practices used on the farm. I cannot recommend the tour highly enough. It was the highlight of our trip and we recommend it to every person we come across. Seriously, if you are in the area you HAVE TO GO TO THOS TOUR!!! The family that owns and operates it is kind and wonderful. 10/10 would recommend to everyone. The only thing I would change is having more room in our bags to bring too quality spices home! Truly the best and kindest! Written December 28, 2022

This was a wonderful experience and I would recommend it to anyone. The tour was very engaging and informational and the tour guide, Joyce, made it very enjoyable. You could tell she was passionate and very knowledgeable. I learned a lot of interesting things and purchased some lovely items in the shop that were very appropriately priced. Written December 24, 2022

Fun tour and very educational! My wife and I chose this tour during a day that was a bit rainy. It was probably the best tour we did while in Costa Rica! While every hotel offered ziplining, kyaking, hikes, etc. we are glad we chose something unique in the Manuel Antonio area. Our tour guide Joyce was amazing and knowledgeable. She spoke great English so there was no issue understanding what was being presented. Now we were in a very small group which helped us in asking more questions and getting perfect answers. There was so much we didn’t know about what was being grown in Costa Rica, and also the difficulty level of some items, such as Vanilla bean. We were picked up on time by a person named Chris who was very engaging throughout our short drive from the Shana Hotel (approx 15min). The tour lasted about 2.5hrs. We managed to get some beautiful photos and we learnt a new word “BioDynamics”. Oh and the ice cream they served us at the end is out of this world! My wife is still raving about the tour now that we are home. That means it was a success! 🙂 Written November, 2022

Loved the tour. Beautiful grounds, beautiful organic spices. It’s great to see people who love and respect the land so much. The food tasting at the end of the tour was the best part! Written November, 2022

Our Spice Tour has also been rated on Trip Advisor !

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Villa Vanilla, Villa Nueva, Quepos, Costa Rica

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Villa Vanilla, Villa Nueva, Quepos 

waterfall wonders from quepos

Unforgettable  tours experiences  with a  positive  impact..

Discover quepos’ waterfalls

Majestic waterfalls: a guided tour experience.

Navigate through the heart of Costa Rica with our expert-guided waterfall tours.

Exclusive Edition Tour

Step beyond the ordinary waterfall tour; immerse in a saga of adventure, exploration, and sensory delight, all curated as our signature masterpiece.

Waterfalls Highlights

Portalón waterfall.

Portalon Waterfall, located near Dominical, offers a breathtaking cascade, surrounded by Costa Rica’s lush, vibrant tropical rainforest scenery.

Poza Azul Waterfall

Poza Azul in Dominicalito is a serene swimming hole with crystal-clear water cascading down, providing a refreshing retreat in nature.

Uvita Waterfall, nestled in Marino Ballena National Park, is a magical cascade amidst verdant scenery, offering a tranquil, picturesque retreat.

Why tour with us

Experience personalized services tailored to your preferences with Quepos Waterfall Tours.

Expect quality, access to hidden gems, and passionate local guides.

Commitment to Quality

Amazing Waterfalls

• Personalized experience

Incredible Staff

Get a glimpse of what you can experience.

Discover the exhilarating experiences of Quepos Waterfall Tours! Explore stunning waterfalls, lush landscapes, and vibrant wildlife in Quepos, Costa Rica, through our immersive and unforgettable tours designed for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those who simply want to relax and have fun alike.

• Impeccable service
• Amazing guides
• Stunning sceneries
• Delicious snacks or meals
• Nature delights

Family-friendly ambiance

Welcoming adventurers of all ages.

JUNGLE NIGHT TOUR MANUEL ANTONIO

This is your next adventure, jungle night tour description.

According to studies, the largest percentage of all animals of most groups are active mostly or exclusively at night. Once the sun sets in the Costa Rican rainforest, we start hiking and looking for exiting species of animals while the jungle takes on a totally different character.

It goes from a green cathedral-like forest where beautiful shining blue morpho butterflies fly along small rivers to a pitch-black jungle, filled with the sounds of millions of insects and dozens of frogs & toads.

It is the same green fascinating forest, but now it´s dark and you are ready to go find out what’s there! It’s the best time to find, observe and photograph beautiful tree frogs, shy snakes, colorful insects, mammals and other rainforest creatures that only come out at night.

The beautiful symphony of a tropical rainforest at night is one of the most exiting experiences; turn off the lights for a moment and listen to all the secrete sounds. Reserve this tour and dedicate your attention & love with a passionate and competent tour guide to this unforgettable moment. Be aware it is quite an adventure to be in the rainforest at night!!!!

BOOK NOW ONLINE

Included in the tour

• Transportation (round trip) • Certified tour guide (German / Spanish / English) • Flashlights • Entrance fee

What to bring...?

• Camera • Hiking shoes • Insect repellent • Raincoat • Comfortable light clothing

• Quepos / Manuel Antonio US$55 p/p. Children under 10y/o $45 • For other pick up locations please contact us.

Tour Length

• 2.5 hours

Pick up time

• Quepos / Manuel Antonio – 6:00 pm. • For other pick up locations please contact us

Difficulty level

WHERE NEXT?

Our team of experts offer the best special tours. from adventurous trips to an inspiring beach as manuel antonio beach is. come with us have a inspirational experience..

• The ATV Ride
• Reserve ATV Tour
• Cancelation Policy

Manuel Antonio ATV Tour

A true atv jungle experience.

If you are interested in a thrilling ATV Tour in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, you have come to the right place.  Our company, provides you with the best ATV Tour, in which you can explore the fascinating Costa Rican Jungle.

These Safe, Fun & Easy to drive 4 wheelers are a blast to ride through the Rain Forest, on easy to navigate paths. You can drive, or ride, on one of these machines, for an exhilarating adventure, while you enjoy the scenery, including opportunities to view some of the interesting wildlife.

A highlight for most people, is the visit to a spectacular,160 foot Waterfall, with a beautiful natural pool, in which you can take a refreshing swim.

We have ATV’S which are perfect for 1 person, as well as 2 passenger ATVs.  The price for a 1 person atv is $105 and the price for a 2 person atv is $135.

Head over tour our ATV Tour Details Page where you will get a step by step of what we do during the ATV Adventure Ride.

Our Manuel Antonio ATV Adventure is on a nearby mountain property, just 20 to 30 minutes from Manuel Antonio.  During the entire excursion, you are surrounded by Nature, with lush forests and gorgeous mountains.   

We take you on a Fun Hike, through the mountains, which lead to several Waterfalls.   

Your exciting adventure and refreshing swim will surely work up a good appetite. To satisfy it, we serve you a fresh Costa Rican Lunch. Our lunch menu changes, day to day, but it is always 100% local Costa Rican Food such as fresh fish, rice, beans, delicious fried plantains and a salad. Refreshing drinks, to quench your thirst, are also provided and they really hit the spot.

Our Rates – Tour Departure Time – What To Bring

We have 3 different pick up times for our ATV Tour. 

7:30 a.m.   10:30 a.m.   2:00 p.m.   

The total tour is about 4 hours.  

Arrival times at your ATV Departure point are:

8:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:30 p.m.

Our Rates are listed below.  

Everything is included as part of your fun ATV Experience.  Tax with credit card is not included.

$110 for 1 person on 1 ATV.  

$140 for 2 people on 1 ATV.  

Our Recommendations for the ATV Tour 

We recommend that you bring comfortable clothes, your best pair of sneakers, sun block, insect repellent, bathing suit and an extra change of clothes after you are done swimming in the 160 ft Waterfall.  

Long Dirt Trails Providing You More Driving Time 

During your ATV Excursion, you will encounter many long trails, which provide you more time to drive your four wheeler. These long dirt roads have little to no traffic, so you don’t have to worry about other vehicles.  

There are many scenic Costa Rican Palm Trees and other exotic plants for you to view, while feeling the refreshing breeze in your face and just enjoying the ATV Ride.  

Friendly & Hard Working Staff 

Here at Manuel Antonio ATV Tour, we want you to enjoy your tour as much as possible and our friendly staff plays a big role in making that happen. Our tour guides are Bilingual, speaking both English, as well as Spanish. One of our Tour Guides who will take you through the easy steps on how to drive the ATV and be there to answer all of your questions.  

Manuel Antonio is the best Place To Do The ATV Tour

You might have heard about other areas in Costa Rica that also provide the ATV Adventure, but, if you do a quick research, you will discover that the area of Manuel Antonio stands out, as the best place to do an ATV Excursion.

What makes the area of Manuel Antonio so much fun to drive an ATV is that it provides a lot of dirt roads and mountain trails that lead to several natural pools of water and beautiful Waterfalls. It’s easy to understand why so many people pick Manuel Antonio as the #1 place in Costa Rica to do an ATV Adventure Tour.

You get to ride your own ATV 

Part of what makes our ATV Tour so much fun is that you get to be the one that actually drives the Four Wheel drive and so you get to really feel the adrenaline and excitement that comes with driving a 4 wheeler. 

Those who do not have a drivers license are not allowed to drive, but can still ride with someone that does have a driver’s license.   

We provide all of the Safety Equipment 

Before you start the ATV Adventure, you will be handed a Safety Helmet by your Tour Guide.  These helmets are top of the line for ATV Driving and we have all sizes, so you can be sure we have one that will fit you perfectly.   

Safe, Easy & Well Maintained ATVs 

You can select from our wide variety of ATVs which are all kept in great condition and are very easy to drive, as they are semi automatic.   

We always strive to ensure that our customers have the best time during their ATV tour, which is why having all of our ATVs in perfect condition, is one of our top priorities. So, when it is time for you to begin your exciting adventure, you can just enjoy all of the beautiful scenery, as well as the fun and exhilaration of riding your 4 wheeler.  

Take a look at our Latest Posts

Off Road ATV Adventure

Experience a true Off Road ATV Adventure in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica Experience a true Off Road ATV Adventure here in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. On this post, we would like to give you a summary of our Off Road ATV Tour which we do in beautiful Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica.   If perhaps you…

Two Weeks in Costa Rica

Travel and Moving Blog

8 Off-the-Beaten-Path Things to Do Near Manuel Antonio

• Jenn and Matt

121 Comments

Last Updated: June 11, 2024

Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations. With a gorgeous beach, lush rainforest, and tons of wildlife, it is no surprise that it’s a favorite among visitors. Although part of Manuel Antonio’s appeal is how convenient it is to activities and tourist amenities, the small community sometimes can feel a bit congested, especially during peak travel months. Luckily, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path things to do just a short drive from town. Below we share eight day trips for exploring the Manuel Antonio area off the tourist trail.

1.  Hiking and Hanging Bridges at Rainmaker Conservation Park

Manuel Antonio National Park right in town is no doubt a great place to see wildlife. But it can get crowded, with long lines to get in and busy trails.

If you’re looking for somewhere more authentic, consider Rainmaker Conservation Park.

Rainmaker is a 2,000 hectare (5,000 acre) reserve just north of Quepos and Manuel Antonio. Although it is only a half-hour away, the setting is completely different. Once you get off the main highway, you’ll travel on a quiet dirt road through quaint Tico towns without a tourist in sight.

The reserve itself has a nice trail that loops past several waterfalls and along rustic hanging bridges.

Rainmaker is mostly primary rainforest so it doesn’t have as many monkeys as Manuel Antonio, but it does have lots of other interesting wildlife like glass-winged butterflies, poison dart frogs, tons of birds, and even snakes.

Cost: $20 for a self-guided tour. $65 for a guided tour with transportation (includes entrance). You can book a guided tour through the trusted guides we use here .

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 30 minutes

For more information on visiting Rainmaker, check out our separate post : Rainmaker Conservation Park: Unspoiled Nature Near Manuel Antonio .

2.  Hiking, Waterfalls, and Rural Tourism at Los Campesinos

For those wanting an even more off-the-beaten-path activity, there’s Los Campesinos .

Los Campesinos is a little-known rural tourism organization deep in the mountains north of Quepos. It takes about an hour from Manuel Antonio to get there. Along the way, you’ll pass through charming Tico villages in the heart of the countryside. The drive is a bit of an adventure, along bumpy and sometimes steep dirt roads (4×4 required), but entirely worth the effort.

Once you arrive, you’ll be greeted by a friendly local at the small ticket booth/store where you can buy your tickets for exploring this wonderful nature reserve.

Los Campesinos has a few different trails. One shorter trail goes down to a river and waterfall where you can take a dip in the refreshing water. Another goes deeper into the jungle and up to a lookout where on clear days, you can see Manuel Antonio National Park in the distance. The third trail, which is the highlight for most visitors, is the one right near the entrance. This one crosses an extremely long hanging bridge over a lofty waterfall.

In addition to the hiking, a highlight of Los Campesinos is the traditional lunch that local women prepare over a wood-burning stove.

Cost: Around $20 for admission and lunch. Local guides from the association are available for an additional fee.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 1 hour

3.  La Iguana Chocolate

One of the most delicious tours near Manuel Antonio is La Iguana Chocolate tour.

The Salazar-Garcia family has been farming a four hectare (10 acre) plot in the mountains of Mastatal for nearly 30 years and now focuses on cacao. They grow some of the finest bean-to-bar organic chocolate we’ve ever tasted, flavoring it with fruits and spices that come straight from the farm.

We’ve been on several different chocolate tours, but what we really liked about La Iguana was the intimate feel. The son of the family, Jorge, personally took us around the property, showing us each step of the chocolate-making process. We got to try our hand at grinding the raw cacao and even practiced tempering the liquidy chocolate goodness.

Cost: $34 per person adults. $25 per person children under 10. Free for kids under 5.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 1.5 hours. La Iguana is located in the hills on the road to Puriscal, which used to connect Quepos to San Jose before construction of the new highway. Although the road has been improved in recent years, it is still rough. But you’ll get to enjoy a scenic drive through rural villages and pineapple fields.

For more information about La Iguana Chocolate, read our separate post: Making Organic Chocolate at La Iguana Chocolate .

4.  Spice Farm Tour at Rainforest Spices

For a food tour closer to Quepos and Manuel Antonio, check out Rainforest Spices/Villa Vanilla .

This working farm 16 km (10 miles) outside Quepos grows a plethora of spices and exotic fruits. Vanilla and ceylon cinnamon are their specialties, but they also cultivate cocoa, black pepper, allspice, turmeric, and much more.

The tour takes place at the plantation. For part of it, you’ll walk along a well-maintained jungle trail, learning more about how the different spices are grown. Later on, you get a chance to taste them. The in-house pastry chef is known for preparing some delicious treats showcasing the spices that will have you stocking up on your own supply to bring home.

Cost: $55 per person adults; $33 per person children ages 5-12. We can help you book a tour at Villa Vanilla . Booking through us costs the same and helps support our website.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 30 minutes (4×4 not necessary)

For more information, read our post, Villa Vanilla Spice Farm: A Rainforest of Flavors Near Manuel Antonio .

5.  Kids Saving the Rainforest

Since 1999, Kids Saving the Rainforest has been rescuing and rehabilitated rainforest animals that are injured or orphaned in the wild. They treat over 130 animals a year and are one of the most well-respected wildlife centers in Costa Rica. 

You can tour the Kids Saving the Rainforest wildlife sanctuary to learn more about this organization’s amazing work and of course to see some creatures close up. Some of the animals you might see on the tour are several types of monkeys, including spider monkeys, white-faced monkeys, squirrel monkeys, tamarins, marmosets, as well as sloths, kinkajous, and parrots.

Cost: Adults – $60; Children under 12 – $45; Children under 3 – free. All proceeds go to helping the animals.

We can help you book a tour of the wildlife sanctuary or a full-day volunteering tour . Booking through us costs the same and helps support our website.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 20 minutes

For more information about the organization and its tours, read our post, Kids Saving the Rainforest .

6.  Manuel Antonio Bee Farm

One of the most unique tours in the area is the Manuel Antonio Bee Farm.

This small apiary is located in the countryside about a half-hour from Manuel Antonio.

On a tour, the owner will take you along a jungle trail to see his hives. You’ll even get to don a beekeeper’s suit. He teaches you all about the intricate lives of bees and their importance to the ecosystem.

The tour is right at his house and includes a homecooked meal.

Cost: $50 per person adults. $30 per person children under 12.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: About 30 minutes (4×4 not required)

For more information, read our post, Manuel Antonio Bee Farm .

7. Playa Biesanz (Biesanz Beach)

Everyone who visits Manuel Antonio goes to the main beach, Playa Espadilla, but there’s another lesser known spot that is worth a visit.

Playa Biesanz is a deep cove with sparkling turquoise water and peaceful jungle surrounds. It’s a favorite beach among the locals, and on weekends, you’re likely to see families stocked up for the day with bags full of food and maybe even hammocks.

The best part about Playa Biesanz is that, while many of the beaches in the Manuel Antonio area have rougher water, Biesanz has calm water that is perfect for swimming. This makes it a great place to bring children.

Cost: Free. If you have a car, there is an attendant who will keep an eye on it for you for a small tip.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: N/A, right in town. Playa Biesanz is located on the road to Punta Quepos near the Parador Resort. To access the beach, you have to walk through the forest for about five minutes. Look for a small opening in the gate on the right side of the road at the bottom of the hill.

8.  Quepos Farmers Market

If you’re going to be in Manuel Antonio on a Friday or Saturday, be sure to hit up the farmers market in Quepos.

This is one of the bigger ferias in the area and it offers an assortment of goodies. You can find everything from exotic fruits and veggies to artisanal cheeses, homemade pies, breads, and ice-cream, and even handcrafted souvenirs.

Visiting the farmers markets will not only teach you about the multitude of produce that is grown in Costa Rica, but will also show you the culture. Most of the patrons at the feria are locals out in their daily routines, picking out produce for their restaurants or families.

The feria is open on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings. Look for it near the seawall in downtown Quepos.

Travel Time from Manuel Antonio: 5-10 minutes

Manuel Antonio may be best known for its namesake park, beautiful beach, and abundance of tours, but there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path things to do in the area. Each of these eight activities is sure to give you a taste of authentic Costa Rica.

What has been your most memorable experience in Manuel Antonio? Let us know in the comments below.

Looking for more information to plan your trip check out these posts:.

Manuel Antonio Tours : Wildlife-kayak tours, ziplining, and catamaran tours are other fun things to do in Manuel Antonio. Check out this list of tours we can help you book.

Manuel Antonio Restaurant Guide : Our top picks for the best food in Manuel Antonio.

Rental Car Discount : Having a rental car is best to get to off-the-beaten path places like these. Check out our discount to save 10% and get free extras like car seats for kids and a second driver.

Troopers rescue rainforest animal called a kinkajou from dusty highway rest stop

YAKIMA, Wash. (AP) — Why did the kinkajou cross the road? And what’s a kinkajou, anyway?

One of the mammals — which look like a cross between a monkey and a tiny bear — was found far from its normal rainforest habitat this week at a highway rest stop amid the rolling sagebrush plains of central Washington state, officials say.

Kinkajous have prehensile tails, and this one was spotted Sunday climbing on a tall wooden post along Interstate 82 southeast of Yakima, the state Department of Transportation said in a post on X.

“We don’t know if it was dropped off or escaped,” the post said. The animal was rescued by the state Fish and Wildlife Department.

Kinkajous are carnivores that live in tropical rainforests from southern Mexico through Brazil, according to the Point Defiance Zoo & Aquarium in Tacoma, where this little creature was taken to live temporarily.

With sandy yellow fur, round ears and big dark eyes, they are capable of grasping objects and are often mistakenly called primates, the zoo said.

“Despite their cuteness, kinkajous do not make good pets,” the zoo said.

This particular kinkajou is being quarantined in the zoo’s hospital to ensure it’s not carrying any diseases and it will undergo a comprehensive wellness exam this week, officials said.

Kinkajous are not endangered but are hunted for their fur, and the illegal exotic pet trade-threatens their population, according to the zoo.

Copyright 2024 The Associated Press. All rights reserved.

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