Facts checked October 2026 by the Manuel Antonio Travel Guide team
What works at which age
| Activity | Under 5 | 5–7 | 8–12 | Teens |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Guided park walk | Yes, with a carrier | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Damas mangrove boat | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Damas mangrove kayak | No | No | Yes, sharing with an adult | Yes |
| Morning catamaran | Check with operator | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Night walk | Short attention span | Often yes | Yes | Yes |
| Zip lines | No | Check limits | Often yes | Yes |
| Savegre rafting | No | No | Yes | Yes |
Age and weight limits change by operator. Check the listing before booking.
The national park with children
- Go at 7:00 am. Cooler, quieter and the animals are more active.
- A guide makes it fun. Kids love looking through the spotting scope at a sloth or a frog. A private guide lets you stop when they need to.
- Bring water in a reusable bottle and leave snacks behind; outside food isn't allowed and monkeys go after bags.
- Strollers manage the main trail, but side trails have steps. A carrier is easier.
- Swim at Playa Manuel Antonio, the calmest beach, then leave before the hottest hours.
Family-friendly tours
Damas Island mangrove boat tour
Best for: Families with young children and anyone who prefers not to paddle
- Covered motor boat with a certified naturalist guide
- Hotel pickup in Manuel Antonio or Quepos and a meal included
- About 4 hours door to door, usually starting at 8:00 am
Prices and booking on Viator
Guided tour with hotel pickup and entrance
Best for: Staying in Quepos or up the hill and not wanting to drive or park
- Hotel pickup in the Quepos and Manuel Antonio area
- Park entrance fee, snacks and water included
- Small group of up to 10; stay on at the beach afterwards
Prices and booking on Viator
Morning catamaran with snorkel and lunch
Best for: A relaxed day on the water along the park's coast
- 9:00 am departure from Marina Pez Vela, Quepos
- Buffet lunch, juices and snorkel gear included; bring a towel
- Hotel pickup only in the Manuel Antonio area
Prices and booking on Viator
Jungle night walk on a private reserve
Best for: Frogs, snakes and insects after the park has closed
- About 2 hours with flashlight and spotting scope provided
- Reserve entry fee paid in cash on arrival
- Meets on the road between Quepos and Manuel Antonio
Prices and booking on Viator
Practical tips
- Plan one activity a day and keep afternoons for the pool or beach; it rains most afternoons from May to November.
- Book park tickets as soon as your dates are fixed in the dry season, for every family member, with each passport number.
- Remember the Tuesday closure. That's a good day for the mangrove boat. See our 3-day itinerary.
Frequently asked questions
Is Manuel Antonio good for kids?
Yes. The main trail is flat and wide, sloths and monkeys are common, and Playa Manuel Antonio is calm for swimming. Go early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds.
How much is the park entrance for children?
As of October 2026, non-resident children aged 2 to 12 pay about US$5.65 including tax, and children under 2 enter free. Tickets are sold online on the SINAC portal.
What tours can young children do in Manuel Antonio?
A guided park walk, the covered boat tour through the Damas Island mangroves and a morning catamaran work well for most ages. The mangrove kayak tour we link accepts children from 8, and the rafting trip is not recommended for children 7 and under.