When the sun sets in Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, the jungle starts to reveal its secrets. As darkness descends, the nocturnal creatures of the rainforest awaken, offering a completely different experience than the daytime tours. A night tour in Manuel Antonio is an exciting adventure that allows you to witness the fascinating nocturnal wildlife in their natural habitat.

What to Expect on a Night Tour in Manuel Antonio

Night tours in Manuel Antonio are led by experienced guides who are passionate about the local fauna and flora. They will guide you through the jungle, illuminating the path with flashlights and pointing out the various creatures that come out after dark. You can expect to see a variety of insects, frogs, snakes, and possibly even some mammals and birds that are active at night.

One of the highlights of a night tour in Manuel Antonio is the chance to see the beautiful red-eyed tree frog. This iconic Costa Rican animal is most active at night, and its vibrant colors are truly a sight to behold. Other animals you might encounter include bats, owls, kinkajous, and possibly even a sleeping sloth or two.

Best Night Tours in Manuel Antonio

There are several tour operators in Manuel Antonio that offer night tours. Here are a few recommended ones:

  • Jungle Night Tour – Selina Manuel Antonio: This tour includes transportation, a certified tour guide, entrance fee, and flashlights. The tour departs at 5:00 PM and lasts for 3 hours. More Info

  • Night Tour in Costa Rica – Costa Rica Rios: This tour offers the chance to see over half a million distinct animal species. The tour includes a visit to the Monteverde Cloud Forest, Tortuguero for turtle-nesting, Ostional Wildlife Refuge for Olive Ridley arribadas, Corcovado National Park, and Manuel Antonio National Park. More Info

  • Rainmaker Conservation Park Night Tour – GetYourGuide: This tour includes a visit to the Rainmaker Conservation Park. The tour duration is 3 hours and includes a live tour guide. More Info

What to Bring on a Night Tour

When preparing for a night tour in Manuel Antonio, it’s important to bring the following items:

  • Camera: You’ll want to capture the stunning wildlife you encounter.
  • Hiking shoes: The terrain can be uneven, so sturdy shoes are a must.
  • Insect repellent: The jungle is home to many insects, so it’s a good idea to protect yourself.
  • Bottle of water: It’s important to stay hydrated during the tour.

FAQ

The number of nights you need in Manuel Antonio depends on what you want to see and do. However, most visitors spend between 2 to 4 nights in the area to fully experience the variety of tours and activities available, including the night tours.

Manuel Antonio beach is part of the national park, which closes at 4:00 PM. However, many night tours in the area start after this time and take place in other locations.

While you can bring food into the Manuel Antonio area, it's important to note that feeding the wildlife is strictly prohibited to protect their health and maintain their natural behaviors. Also, remember to dispose of your trash properly to keep the environment clean.

When preparing for a night tour, it's recommended to wear long pants and closed-toe shoes to protect against insects and the terrain. A light jacket can be useful if it gets cool, and don't forget to bring a flashlight and water.

Night tours offer the opportunity to see a variety of nocturnal wildlife, including insects, frogs, snakes, and possibly even some mammals and birds that are active at night. The exact animals you'll see can vary depending on the time of year and other factors.

Yes, night tours are safe when led by experienced guides. They will guide you through the jungle, illuminating the path with flashlights and ensuring you stay on the trail. However, as with any activity, it's important to listen to the guide's instructions and stay aware of your surroundings.

Yes, children can go on night tours, but it's important to consider their comfort with being in the dark and their ability to stay quiet, which can be necessary to see certain wildlife. It's always a good idea to check with the tour operator about any age restrictions or recommendations. Remember, each night tour can be unique, so it's always a good idea to ask your tour operator if you have specific questions or concerns. Enjoy your adventure!