 P.N. Manuel Antonio |
P.N. Manuel Antonio
Central America Caribbean » Costa Rica » Puntarenas » Manuel Antonio
February 23rd 2008 by Bwalk
Afternoon Swim
Not the best photo taken from the bus, but still interesting to see Tico youth just lounging on the governmentīs next sewer project.
I had spent lots of time traveling with peers or with family friends around Costa Rica, but I knew it was time to discover some of the country for myself. I chose Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio because I had heard that it was basically an incredibly beautiful park that has been turned into one of the top five tourist spots in the country. Some one wrote that it was to Costa Rica as Main Street USA is to Disney World, just with more animal life, forest, and the Pacific Ocean. I felt like I should give it a go, but I didnīt want to spend any more than a day there. My cousin was getting baptised on that sunday, so I only had that friday and saturday, which was exactly what I wanted. I bussed to Quepos and stayed in a great backpackerīs hostel, visited the village that night, met people from all the world, went dancing, stayed up late, got up early, and spent the day at the park...
Cantantes!
Like I said, Disney World. Quepos is a 20 minute bus ride from the village of Manuel Antonio, and upon arriving, you are greeted by many sights such as this.
Touristy, yes, but I couldnīt resist.
These colorful sheets (what do you call them?) lined the length of the beach, each vendor proclaiming the superiority of their wares. A quick walk around revealed that they are all from the same manu... [more]
Parasailing!
I did this once! Despite the gringo hordes, I canīt think of a place that would be much better to do this. I watched the sun set from this vantage in about 30 minutes from the time of photography.
Park Entrance Stampede
This may be where M.A. differs itself from Island of Adventure in the States; youīre looking at the entrance, more or less to the park. I had to ask someone where to go. After a short little walk al... [more]
Obligatory Sign
If I was with my brothers, we would have picked Tyler up and held him upside down for the photo. Alas, traveling alone has its (relitively few) drawbacks.
A Walk in the Woods
This is why I got up early; I wanted to experience the park with as few visitors as I could, and it was rather nice. This is on the path to Playa Escondito, the farthest beach within the park.
Jesus Chirst Lizard
I donīt claim to know that much about wildlife, but I donīt know why this guy is packing such a name. Although I didnīt catch any good photos, I also saw some monkeys as I walked through the forest, ... [more]
Beaches rock here.
There are four beaches within the park, this being Playa Escondido. The others, while of slightly less interesting geography, were admittedly perfect for swimming; I took advantage of those, for sure... [more]
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