From San José: Private Manuel Antonio Day Trip & Oceanfront Lunch
Active
10h - 12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Manual confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What makes this experience unique is the balance between iconic coastal highlights and genuine local connection. Rather than focusing only on destinations, the journey includes scenic stops and exposure to everyday regional life.
Travelers visit traditional roadside fruit stands featuring seasonal tropical varieties rarely exported. Midway through the day, the experience includes a rustic picnic-style lunch enjoyed directly in front of the ocean — simple, relaxed, and centered on place rather than luxury.
Guests then choose between two nature experiences: wildlife observation in Manuel Antonio National Park with a professional naturalist guide, or rainforest immersion at Rainmaker Conservation Park with waterfalls and hanging bridges. Entrance fees remain separate to preserve flexibility and personalization.
This tour prioritizes adaptability, authentic context, and meaningful engagement over scripted sightseeing — creating a private day shaped around curiosity and discovery.
Available options
Private tour with local friend
Pickup included
8-10 hours in Private Van
Pickup included
What's included
Bottled water
Snacks
Enjoy a rustic picnic-style lunch overlooking the ocean at Playa Hermosa, featuring a wrap or sandwich, chips, and a drink — simple, local, and centered on the coastal setting.
Parking Fees
Personal driver, sightseeing accordingly to the point of interest you want to go.
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Manuel Antonio is one of Costa Rica’s most iconic destinations thanks to its unique combination of lush rainforest, white-sand beaches, and abundant wildlife. Visitors can explore scenic jungle trails inside the national park, where it’s common to spot monkeys, sloths, iguanas, frogs, birds, and more, all while enjoying ocean views and coastal viewpoints. Several trails lead directly to beautiful beaches, creating a rare blend of hiking and relaxation in one place.
Beyond the national park, the day can include additional coastal experiences such as nearby beaches, waterfalls, or optional adventure activities like ziplining or parasailing, depending on your interests. The experience often ends with a sunset visit to Quepos Marina, a vibrant waterfront area known for its atmosphere, restaurants, and ocean views.
This is not a fixed-route tour. The itinerary is flexible and built around your preferences, allowing time for photos, local food, coffee stops, or spontaneous detours.
2
Stop 2
Rainmaker Nature Park is a private rainforest reserve located near the Central Pacific coast of Costa Rica. It offers well-maintained hanging bridges, walking trails through primary and secondary rainforest, waterfalls, and scenic viewpoints. Visitors can enjoy guided or self-guided hikes, wildlife observation, birdwatching, and immersive nature experiences in a quieter, less crowded environment compared to national parks.
What's not included
Gratuities
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
5.0
1 reviews
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Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About San José
San José, the capital of Costa Rica, is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, bustling markets, and colonial architecture. Nestled in the heart of the Central Valley, it offers a unique blend of urban life and natural beauty, with nearby volcanoes and coffee plantations adding to its allure.
Top Attractions
Museo del Jade
This museum houses an extensive collection of pre-Columbian jade artifacts, showcasing the rich history of Costa Rica.
Museum
1-2 hours
¢5,000 (CRC)
Mercado Central
A bustling market offering a variety of local foods, souvenirs, and crafts. It's a great place to experience the local culture.
Market
1-2 hours
Free entry
Teatro Nacional de Costa Rica
A stunning example of neoclassical architecture, this theater hosts various cultural performances and events.
Historical
1 hour
¢6,000 (CRC) for tours
Parque La Sabana
A large urban park with walking paths, sports facilities, and a lake. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Nature
1-2 hours
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, and peppers, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Olla de Carne
A hearty beef and vegetable soup, often served with rice, tortillas, and salad.
Dinner
Can be made vegetarian
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, beans, rice, and avocado.
Snack
Can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking in national parks
Zip-lining in nearby areas
Coffee tasting tours
Spa treatments
Museum visits
Historical tours
White-water rafting in nearby rivers
Coffee plantation tours
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers pleasant weather with minimal rain, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
22-28°C
72-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
San José is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime such as pickpocketing and bag snatching can occur, especially in crowded areas. Exercise caution and keep valuables secure.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use official taxis or ride-sharing apps
Getting there
By air
- Juan Santamaría International Airport • 20 km (12 miles) from city center
By bus
Cariari Bus Terminal, San José Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around San José. They cover most of the city and its suburbs.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Barrio Escalante
Barrio Amón
San Pedro
Day trips
Poás Volcano National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Half day
A stunning national park featuring the active Poás Volcano and beautiful crater lakes.
Irazú Volcano National Park
55 km (34 miles) • Half day
A national park featuring the Irazú Volcano, one of the highest peaks in Costa Rica, and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Alajuela
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming city known for its colonial architecture, museums, and the Juan Santamaría Museum, dedicated to Costa Rica's national hero.
Festivals
Fiesta de las Luces • December
Festival de las Artes • March
Pro tips
- Visit the Mercado Central early in the morning for the freshest produce and to avoid crowds.
- Try local street food for an authentic and delicious culinary experience.
- Explore the city's museums and cultural attractions to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica's rich history.
- Take a day trip to nearby natural attractions, such as Poás Volcano National Park, for stunning views and outdoor activities.
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
