Trip Information
Pick-up
Your driver will meet you at your address in San Jose.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
Trip
You’ll travel in comfort for 3 hours.
- Optional sight-seeing
- Clean, comfortable car
- Professional driver
- Bottled water
- Child seats
- Prepared for handicapped
- Smoke-free
- Pet friendly
Drop-off
Your driver will drop you off at your address in Manuel Antonio.
- Door-to-door service
- Help with your luggage
- 172 km
- 3 hours
Car trip from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park
The car journey from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park covers a distance of approximately 107 miles (172 kilometers) and takes around 3 hours, depending on traffic. Along this route, you’ll have the opportunity to explore various points of interest and local wildlife.
Leaving from the capital (where the airport is located) to this national park takes you along the Gulf of Nicoya, treating you to views of blue waters at each turn. But you don't have to just watch the diverse landscapes, and dense rainforests, and see the colorful birds of Costa Rica pass you by.
When you book a private car transfer with Daytrip, you can immerse yourself in Costa Rica's magic by stopping to learn how coffee is made at the Britt Coffee Tour or diving into the jungle at Los Chorros Waterfalls.
About Manuel Antonio National Park
On the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park is renowned for its stunning biodiversity and breathtaking natural beauty. Established in 1972, it holds the distinction of being one of Costa Rica's most popular national parks, attracting visitors from around the world. Its significance lies not only in its ecological diversity but also in its historical importance as a protected area.
Covering an area of approximately 4,900 acres (1,983 hectares), Manuel Antonio is home to a diverse range of ecosystems, including lush tree life, pristine beaches, and mangrove swamps. If you’re ready to see exotic animals (monkeys, sloths, variegated squirrels, etc.) then you’re headed to the right place.
From San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park: travel tips
When planning your journey from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park consider the following travel tips.
Pack the essentials
Pack appropriate attire. The last thing you want is to be uncomfortable in nature. Sturdy walking shoes are recommended for exploring the park's trails.
Aside from this, don’t forget sunscreen, sunglasses, a wide-brimmed hat, insect repellent, antiseptic wipes, and a travel-sized first aid kit!
Plan for your hike
Stay hydrated. Costa Rica has a pretty warm climate year-round, considering it’s only 673.59 miles (1,084.03 km) away from the equator. It’s a good idea to carry water and energizing snacks for the road, especially if you’re planning to hike.
How to get from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park
It’s essential to consider your transportation options when going from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park.
San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park by bus
Travelers have the option of taking a public bus from San Jose to Quepos, the town closest to Manuel Antonio National Park. Public buses are a budget-friendly choice, with fares typically ranging from $5 to $7 (2,507 to 3,511 Costa Rican Colón) per person. However, it's important to note that you’ll have to take a taxi from Quepos to get to Manuel Antonio. The taxi ride is about 15 minutes, 15 bucks, and 5 miles away (8.3 km).
San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park by private car transfer
Daytrip's door-to-door car service allows you to book a local, English-speaking driver in advance, set up stops along the way, and get dropped off exactly where you want at the park. This eliminates the need to find a taxi at Quepos, learn Spanish, or worry about damaging a rental on the road. Each car has A/C and each driver will help you with your luggage. It's by far the most comfortable and convenient option.
San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park by rental car
If you love the freedom of exploration and moving at your own pace, especially if you plan to make day trips from Manuel Antonio, then choosing a car may be your go-to option. You can rent a car at the San Jose airport for anywhere from $7 to $21 a day. The downside is navigating on your own and being responsible for any vehicle damage.
Things to do when you get to Manuel Antonio National Park
Upon leaving San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park, you’ll be welcomed by a smorgasbord of activities to do. Keep in mind that pets and drones are not allowed in the park, in case you were planning to share memories with your furry friends or friends online.
Hiking trails & beach exploration
Manuel Antonio National Park has 6 different trail options for you to hike through. There are also 4 beaches: Manuel Antonio, Espadilla Sur, Tesoro & Playita.
The varied landscape will allow you to have all types of outdoor fun at different paces, all while being surrounded by unforgettable views.
Wildlife watching
This is where it gets exciting. The National Park is home to 109 species of mammals, and 184 bird species, and you may even be able to see dolphins and whales offshore.
There’s no shortage of animal encounters to be had here. You can photograph sloths, iguanas, leafcutter ants, golden-naped woodpeckers, and more.
Ziplining
El Santuario Canopy Adventure, right outside of Manuel Antonio, is home to the longest twin zip line in Central America! It runs for about a mile and allows you to fly through the forests alongside the birds. There are 6 hanging bridges and 14 tree platforms to check out.
When is the best time to visit Manuel Antonio National Park?
Choosing the best time to drive from San Jose to Manuel Antonio National Park can greatly enhance your experience.
Plan around the weather. The park experiences a tropical climate with two distinct seasons – the dry season (December to April) and the rainy season (May to November). The dry season typically offers sunny skies and less rainfall, making it an ideal time for outdoor activities such as hiking and beach visits.
However, the rainy season brings lush greenery and fewer crowds, offering a unique opportunity to experience the park in a more tranquil setting. So if you’re looking to get away from “everyone”, then this might be the season for you.
Questions & Answers about Traveling from San Jose to Manuel Antonio
Visit these sights on the way
Britt Coffee Tour
How is coffee made and why is Costa Rica's so delicious? Find out on a fun and informative tour at this eco-friendly plantation. The Magical Fruit
Museo Historico Cultural Juan Santamaria
Costa Rica’s history, and especially the life of its national hero, is detailed in this fascinating free museum. A Hero’s History
Los Chorros Waterfalls
Feel the rush of these two powerful cascades roaring in the lush jungle. The Jets
Crocodile Bridge
Dozens of crocs congregate on sunny river banks right below one of Costa Rica’s main highways. The Croc Stop
Mirador de Jaco
An unmissable sign with unmissable views. Colors of the Coast
Rainmaker Forest
A winding hiking trail complete with rope suspension bridges works through this pristine mountain forest, which is home to over half of Costa Rica’s indigenous species. Wet and Wild
Vehicle options for this trip
The Daytrip driver advantage
Local knowledge about the route from San Jose to Manuel Antonio
Including available sights:English speaking*
All Daytrip drivers speak English* as well as their native language (and sometimes additional languages too!). They'll be happy to discuss local history and culture with you, as well as answer any questions you may have. And because they speak the language, they're able to provide you with a unique opportunity to connect with local culture. *Drivers for Lite service aren't required to speak English but must meet all other standards.
Safety first!
We screen all our drivers for criminal and traffic records, and personally interview each one. We also inspect their cars for safety, comfort, and reliability. All cars must be less than ten years old, in excellent operating condition, and insured as required by local law. And because our drivers are locals, they're familiar with the rules and customs of the road.
World-class customer support
- Available 24/7
- Close relationship with drivers
- Experts on the route from San Jose to Manuel Antonio
Flexible cancellation policy
- Cancellations: 100% refund up to 24 hours before the trip!
- Changes: Free up to 24 hours before the trip!
Good to know
Tips
Gratuity isn’t included or required, but if you really enjoyed your trip, you can show your driver your appreciation with an optional tip (10% is sufficient).
Luggage
- Big luggage
- 29x21x11 inches
- 74x53x28 cm
- Small luggage
- 22x14x9 inches
- 56x36x23 cm
Each passenger is allowed to have one checked bag and one carry on. If you’re traveling with more bags or oversized luggage, you can adjust this while booking.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have any questions, here are the answers.Every traveler deserves real insight into the cultures of the countries they’re visiting. And every amazing place on Earth deserves to be visited and appreciated. We believe unique local knowledge and real human connection are irreplaceable when it comes to truly comprehending another culture.
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