Activities, Nature Tours & Wildlife at Arenas del Mar Resort,
Manuel Antonio National Park, Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers much more than just “drinks by the pool” and tropical beaches. Our country is famous for its flora and fauna and Arenas Del Mar Beach & !ature Resort is the perfect base from which to explore its natural treasures. We invite you to become active, have fun and learn about Costa Rica, its people, nature and culture…

Arenas Del Mar Beach & !ature Resort offers you the most exuberant flora and fauna in the country. We invite you to explore Manuel Antonio, one of the most famous !ational Parks in Costa Rica. Many first-time visitors to Costa Rica plan their vacation around seeing the park, and it is no surprise why: the views from the hills overlooking Manuel Antonio are spectacular, the beaches are idyllic, and its jungles are inhabited by howler, white-faced, and squirrel monkeys, sloths and parrots, among other forms of exotic wildlife. You are invited to experience and taste the sights and sounds of a tropical rainforest that grows right down to the white sands and crystal clear water of the beaches. You will also be supporting the Costa Rican !ational Parks system and contributing to the conservation of our natural resources. By protecting the flora and fauna, you are ensuring that future generations will have the same opportunity to experience the magnificent biodiversity of Costa Rica.

Our hotel has a resident naturalist guide that is always available in case you have questions about nature or tours. If you want to get in touch with him just ask at the front desk! He will be more than happy to answer all your questions!

Manuel Antonio National Park

Early in the morning or in the afternoon, enjoy the charms of Manuel Antonio !ational Park, with its striking white-sand beaches, clear tranquil waters and abundant wildlife. Though the highlights of this park are its two white sand beaches Espadilla Sur and Manuel Antonio - it also protects coastal rain forest, a mangrove swamp, coral formations and 12 islands that serve as seabird sanctuaries. Our guide will teach you about the park's distinctive plant life and point out some of the resident fauna, which include 109 mammal species, such as 3 species of monkeys, agouti, three-toed sloth and 184 species of birds.

What to bring: Sun block, hiking shoes or hiking sandals, insect repellent, binoculars, hat, swimsuit, towel, camera and plastic bags for your camera.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m. 1:00p.m.
Arrival time: 11:45 a.m. 4:00 p.m.
Driving time: 15 minutes (Park closed on Mondays)
Length of tour: 3-4 hours
Includes: transportation, bilingual guide, entrance fee and snack.

Early Bird Watching Tour

Costa Rica is a birder's paradise. With over 856 different species, you just need to go for a short walk to see a multitude of colorful exotic birds. Here, in Arenas del Mar, the trees, bushes and flowers planted just outside your room, were chosen because they attract different species of tanager, euphonias, flycatchers, robins, woodpeckers and over 180 different species of birds. During the early hike we usually see monkeys, sloths and agoutis as well. Come and join us for a fascinating nature experience!

What to bring: Bottle of water, hiking boots or tennis shoes, camera, binoculars, light clothing
Departure time: 6:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 8:00 a.m.
Length of tour: 2 hours.

Night Walk on Arenas Del Mar Nature Reserve

At night, many animals go to sleep but many others come out to explore the dark such as snakes, spiders, opossums and owls. This is your exotic opportunity to see, hear and experience the thrill of the wild nocturnal life at Arenas Del Mar. Come and join us in this great experience!

What to bring: Hiking boots or tennis shoes, long pants, rain gear.
Departure time: 6:00 p.m.
Arrival time: 8:00 p.m.
Length of tour: 2 hours.

Morning or Sunset Catamaran

Discover the wonders of our imposing Manuel Antonio coastline and climb aboard one of Costa Rica’s greatest boat trip experiences by morning or sunset. Marvel at mysterious islands with jagged rock formations, towering cliffs and nesting grounds to sixteen species of marine pelagic birds. It’s during certain times of the year you may be lucky to hear the song of the whales, histling with each surge of the waves. Submerge with us and visit a fascinating undersea domain, playground to more than 60 species of colorful tropical fish. We travel all along the coastline, letting you get a different view of the !ational Park and the Manuel Antonio area. Join us and witness the world’s most unforgettable sunsets, the perfect conclusion to another relaxing, and beautiful afternoon in paradise. We cruise in search of different species of dolphins, whales, sea turtles, vibrant schools of fish and many other marine creatures that inhabit these waters.

What to bring: Sun block, hat or cap, shorts, sandals, swimsuit and camera.
Driving time: 30 minutes.
Departure time: 8:30 a.m. or 1:30 p.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m. or 6:00 p.m.
Length of tour: half day.
Includes: round-trip transfers to/from your hotel, 40 people/60 feet boat tour, snorkel equipment, drinks and lunch or dinner.

White Water Rafting - Savegre

The rivers of Costa Rica are famous for their White Water Rafting and the Savegre River is renowned in the world. This full day adventure will take you on a journey of unsurpassed beauty, jungle vegetation and exploding whitewater. At the lower Savegre, the whitewater rapids are exiting but no so demanding and you will have time to enjoy the spectacular tropical scenery. This is one of the most pristine rivers in the country and lurking just behind the shroud of lush foliage, you will find a number of truly magnificent waterfalls. Get to explore the natural swimming pools in the area surrounded by blooming heliconias! Class: II-III

What to bring: Rubber-soled shoes, swimsuit, shorts of a quick-drying material, hat with a brim for sun, towel, waterproof sun protection, T-shirt is optional. Bring an extra change of dry clothes for after rafting
Departure time: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 4:00 p.m.
Length of tour: full day.
Driving time: 60 minutes
Includes: river gear, soft drinks & fruits, bilingual guide & air-conditioned transportation.

Horseback Riding

Experience a picturesque ride through the jungles and hills to nearby waterfalls and explore exuberant natural world of tropical plants and wildlife in a non-intrusive manner. Discover the secrets of the forest; learn about medicinal and curative plants. Find toucans in our exotic primary forest. Time for a swim! Enjoy a relaxing stay at waterfalls and natural pristine pools.

What to bring: Long pants, sturdy footwear (not sandals), hat/visor, swimsuit, sunscreen and camera. A change of clothes is recommended.
Departure time: 8:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 1:00 p.m.
Driving time: 45 minutes.
Length of tour: half day.
Includes: transportation, bilingual guides, horseback riding equipment, fruit, snacks, beverages and Costa Rican Typical lunch or dinner.

White Water Rafting - Naranjo

If you are looking for more action and higher adrenaline then it is only 30minutes away from the Manuel Antonio / Quepos area where the !aranjo River forms the natural southern border of Manuel Antonio !ational Park. The !aranjo River drops steeply from the coastal mountain range above Quepos through a beautiful jungle gorge, and takes you on a wild ride to sea level passing nearby farmlands and palm plantations. These are 8 miles of whitewater and famous rapids. The river banks are overgrown with jungle and the canyon walls meet the water at 90 degree angles. The whitewater, jungle, canyon, and sky make for an unforgettable day. Class: III – IV

What to bring:R Rubber-soled shoes, swimsuit, shorts of a quick-drying material, hat with a brim for sun, towel, waterproof sun protection, T-shirt is optional. Bring an extra change of dry clothes for after rafting.
Departure time: 7:00 a.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m.
Length of tour: half day.
Driving time: 45 minutes.
Includes: river gear, soft drinks & fruits, bilingual guide & airconditioned transportation.
Note: Available from April to December.

Butterflies Botanical Garden & Amphibians Aquatic Garden

We all appreciate the magnificent butterflies we see in the wild, but do you know how they hatch and how long they can live? Visit the first butterfly garden and private nature reserve tour in the Manuel Antonio area and find more than 20 species of butterflies (such as the famous Monarch butterfly and the Blue Morpho) inside a uniquely designed 1,000 square foot atrium garden. In addition to the myriad of butterflies, you will also learn about Tropical Aquatic Gardens where a variety of species of frogs and toads live; including the red-eyed tree frog or the glass tree frog and the wet forest toad, all endemic species of Costa Rica. The tour also offers the opportunity to see the reptiles exhibition.

What to bring: Cool comfortable clothes and shoes, hat & sun block.
Departure time: 8:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.
Driving time: 10 minutes
Length of tour: 1 to 3 hours.
Includes: air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide and entrance fee.

Damas Island Mangrove by Kayak

This is a once in a life time opportunity to be within arms reach of the spectacular nature of the mangroves. Kayaking through this unique and protected inland waterway is truly a great adventure. You will combine adventure with education, as the Damas Island Mangroves is the perfect place to learn about one of the most important ecosystems in the world, the Mangrove Forest. Enjoy the enchanting, primordial mangrove estuary and observe fascinating wildlife such as the whiteface capuchin monkeys and a vast array of birds. Board your kayak for a relaxing enjoyable trip exploring wild jungle waterways which you cannot normally reach. You will paddle in a sit-on-top kayak, under the shade of the tall mangroves, but if you prefer you can travel by motor boat instead of a kayak.

What to bring: Cool comfortable clothes and shoes, sun block, insects repellent, hat, binoculars and camera.
Departure time: Depending ontides schedule
Arrival time: Around 4 1/2 hours after you start it
Length of tour: half day
Driving time: 30 minutes
Includes: transportation, bilingual guide, equipment and tropical fruit buffet.

Canopy Tour

Sail high above the rainforest canopy and experience the jungle from its richest perspective. Drive for approximately one hour to the ranch house, snugly set beside a freshwater stream at the base of a mountain, where you’ll be served a delicious typical breakfast or lunch (depending on tour time). You will be led through magical trails that gently wind through the forest, where you can see poison dart frogs, toucans, squirrel monkeys and more tropical plants than you can believe! Then you will have the adventure of your life, flying from platform to platform at the very top of the rainforest canopy. Featuring: 21 Platforms, 9 zip lines, 2 repel lines, one suspension bridge, and one “Tarzan Swing”.

What to bring: Long pants, sun block. comfortable shoes or tennis shoes, camera, insect repellent
Departure time: 6:50 a.m. or 9:50 a.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m. or 3:30 p.m.
Driving time: 45 minutes.
Length of tour: half day.
Includes: breakfast or lunch, air conditioned transportation, equipment and bilingual guide.

Spices, Gardens & Flavors Tour

Villa Vanilla is located 10 miles east in the foothills overlooking Manuel Antonio !ational Park. The farm consists of 27 acres in tropical agriculture production surrounded by 125 acres of primary and secondary rainforest. This farm is certified organic/biodynamic by Demeter USA.

This tour offers you the opportunity to experience the sights, tastes and aromas of tropical spices, essential oil plants, sustainable farming practices, spice drying and packaging. Crops include vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, black pepper, allspice plus a variety of exotic fruits, essential oil and medicinal plants.

Tour begins in the post harvest/warehouse where you will observe spice drying, processing and packaging. Then you will enter the plantation by way of our unique “Epiphyte Trail”, (Orchids, Bromeliads & Tilandsias) where you will smell and taste aromatic spices and herbs. Then we continue past our pasture and fish pond on to savor vanilla, cinnamon, chocolate treats and mountain vistas.

What to bring: Comfortable clothes, tennis or hiking shoes, sun block, insect repellent, cash for shopping vanilla beans and extracts (they don’t take credit cards).
Departure time: 8:30 a.m. or 12:30 p.m.
Arrival time: 12:30 p.m. or 4:00 p.m.
Length of tour: 3 hours

Tortillas at Petatillo

Join our onsite guides for an authentic Tico experience. This walking tour takes you around our property and behind the scenes to Petatillo, home to many of our staff. You will learn about Costa Rican customs and discover the meaning behind our national symbols. We will show you how tortillas are made the old fashion way, and if so inclined you will make your own tortilla and savor it with a good cup of coffee or a cup of agua dulce ("sweet water"), just like our grandparents used to do.

What to bring: camera.
Departure time: 3:00 p.m.
Length of tour: 1 hour.
Includes: interpretative guide, history and national symbols explanation, fresh tortillas and coffee.

Mountain Adventure Tour

Experience a unique piece of Costa Rican rural heritage on a country drive just an hour away from Quepos. This guided nature, conservation and cultural expedition takes you along the Fila Chonta Mountain Range. Explore a 3 kilometer nature trail where the guide will share its knowledge on this pristine mountain sanctuary. Different activities are offered while the tour takes place: swimming in the waterfall natural pools, organic tilapia fishing, horseback riding or a visit to a typical sugar cane mill. Submerge yourself on the real ‘pura vida’ meaning!

What to bring:Comfortable clothes, tennis or hiking shoes, sun block, towel, extra change of clothes.
Driving time: 1 hour.
Departure time: 7:30 a.m.
Arrival Time: 3:00 p.m.
Length of tour: 8 Hours.
Includes: Breakfast, lunch, drinks, transportation and bilingual guide.

Hike to Biesanz Beach

This beach is one of the best-kept-secrets of the area. Only those in the know will enjoy its quiet waters and coral reefs. Like Manuel Antonio Beach, (inside the park) this is the only other cove in the area where the crystal clear waters lap at the shore making it perfect for snorkeling. You start hiking with our guide through the forest on the backside of the hotel for about 1 hour until you get to the beach.

There are lots of chances of finding wild life on the way. When you arrive at this beautiful beach you will decide how long you would like to enjoy your privacy and our guide will pick you up later to hike back through the forest. Biesanz beach is perfect for relaxing and swimming and if you wish to snorkel the equipment is available for you to rent right there. This is a tour for those who love beautiful beaches and deep forest trails, kids specially love it.

What to bring: Hiking shoes, snorkeling gear, sun block, camera, bathing suit.
Departure time: upon request
Length of tour: 1:45 minutes hike
Includes: Lunch

Whale Watching Tour

In the Whale Watching Tour you will experience one of the greatest moments of nature. This tour will bring you to some of the most beautiful spots along the pacific coast of Costa Rica, which includes the Marino Bahia Ballena !ational Park. If the boat captain sees the conditions safe to do so, he will allow you to get off the boat and swim around, where you may be able to listen the whale sounds and you could also have the opportunity of seeing dolphins swimming close by.

The whales can be normally seen from !ovember to March and from July to September. In this tour you can usually see Humpback and Pilot Whales. Dolphins are seen all year around. Our recommendation is to visit between December and February and during August and September, as this has been the time where whales have been mostly seen. However, please always have in mind that this is nature and it may vary without notice.

Recommendations: total door to door time of tours is of about 6 hours, please inquire at the Front Desk and we will gladly give important facts, tips and feedback on the tour and if it is accessible and recommendable based on your needs and interests.

What to bring: Sunblock, hat or cap, shorts, sandals, swimsuit, camera, towel, extra changing of clothes, etc.
Departure time: Available upon request.
Length of tour: full day.
Includes: Lunch, transportation, bilingual guide, snack, snorkel equipment.

“Easy Being Green” Tour

What to bring: Camera.
Departure time: 11:00 a.m.
Length of tour: 1 hour.

Iguana Tours - Manuel Antonio Adventure Tours
Tours in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica. Proven experience in whitewater rafting, horseback riding and boat tours since 1989. Visit their website for additional tours.