Best jungle tours from Jaco Beach

Costa Rica is a paradise for nature lovers, with two of its most famous national parks. In this article we explore Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park which offer incredible jungle and wildlife experiences just a short trip from Jaco Beach. Whether you’re a birdwatcher, an adventure seeker, or simply looking to immerse yourself in lush rainforests, both parks provide unique encounters with Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.

At Jaco360 Tour Agency, we specialize in unforgettable guided tours to these stunning destinations. But which park is right for you? Let’s compare Carara National Park and Manuel Antonio National Park tours to help you decide on your next eco-adventure from Jaco.

Toucan Carara national park

1. Location & Accessibility from Jaco Beach

Carara National Park

  • Distance from Jaco: ~30 minutes (~20 km / 12 miles)
  • Why Visit? Carara is the closest major national park to Jaco, making it a perfect half-day trip for those who want a quick jungle escape.

Manuel Antonio National Park

  • Distance from Jaco: ~1.5 hours (~70 km / 43 miles)
  • Why Visit? Though farther, Manuel Antonio is worth the drive for its breathtaking beaches, abundant wildlife, and postcard-perfect scenery.

Verdict: If you’re short on time, Carara is ideal. If you want a full-day adventure with beaches included, Manuel Antonio is the better choice.

2. Wildlife Spotting Opportunities

Both parks are teeming with exotic animals, but each has its specialties.

Carara National Park – A Birdwatcher’s Dream

  • Famous for its Scarlet Macaws—these colorful parrots are often seen flying in pairs.
  • Home to crocodiles (visible from the Tarcoles River bridge on the way).
  • Other wildlife: Toucans, trogons, monkeys (howlers & capuchins), sloths, and agoutis.
  • Best for: Bird enthusiasts and those who love dense jungle hikes.

Manuel Antonio National Park – The Ultimate Wildlife Showcase

  • More monkeys than Carara—white-faced capuchins, howlers, and even squirrel monkeys (endangered and only found here!).
  • Frequent sloth sightings (both two-toed and three-toed).
  • Coastal wildlife: iguanas, raccoons, and marine life (dolphins & whales in season).
  • Best for: Visitors who want guaranteed wildlife encounters in a more open setting.

Verdict: Carara is better for birding, while Manuel Antonio offers a higher chance of seeing monkeys, sloths, and coastal creatures.

3. Hiking Trails & Scenery

Carara National Park – Dense Jungle & Mystical Vibes

  • Primary forest trails with towering trees and a more “wild” feel.
  • Laguna Meándrica Trail – A great spot for birdwatching and seeing crocodiles.
  • Universal Access Trail – A short, wheelchair-friendly path for easy wildlife viewing.
  • Atmosphere: More rugged and less crowded, perfect for a quiet nature experience.

Manuel Antonio National Park – Beaches & Panoramic Views

  • Mix of jungle and stunning beaches—hike through the forest and end up at Playa Manuel Antonio or Playa Espadilla.
  • Punta Catedral Trail – A scenic loop with ocean views and wildlife sightings.
  • Sloth Trail – As the name suggests, great for spotting sloths!
  • Atmosphere: More tourist-friendly with well-maintained trails and beach access.

Verdict: Carara is for deep jungle lovers, while Manuel Antonio combines rainforest and beach for a more varied experience.

4. Tour Experience & Guides

At Jaco360, we offer expert-guided tours to both parks, ensuring you see the most wildlife and learn about Costa Rica’s ecosystems.

Carara Tours from Jaco

  • Early morning tours (best for bird activity).
  • Private & group options available.
  • Includes Tarcoles River crocodile stop (a bonus!).

Manuel Antonio Tours from Jaco

  • Full-day tours with beach time.
  • Small-group or private guides for personalized attention.
  • Combination tours (jungle + snorkeling or catamaran trips available).

Verdict: Both parks offer amazing guided experiences, but Manuel Antonio allows for more add-on activities.

5. Which Park Should You Choose?

Pick Carara National Park If You…

✅ Want a quick, half-day trip from Jaco.
✅ Love birdwatching (especially scarlet macaws!).
✅ Prefer a less touristy, more rugged jungle experience.

Pick Manuel Antonio National Park If You…

✅ Don’t mind a longer drive for more wildlife variety.
✅ Want to combine jungle hikes with beach time.
✅ Hope to see monkeys, sloths, and coastal wildlife up close.

Book Your Jungle Adventure with Jaco360 Today!

Whether you choose Carara’s wild trails or Manuel Antonio’s lively jungles and beaches, our expert guides will ensure an unforgettable experience.

🔹 Carara National Park Tours – Perfect for bird lovers & quick escapes.
🔹 Manuel Antonio National Park Tours – Ideal for families & wildlife enthusiasts.

📞 Contact Jaco360 Tour Agency to reserve your spot and explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders!

Final Thoughts: Both Carara and Manual Antonio national Parks tours are spectacular in their own way. If you have time, visit both—Carara for an intimate jungle encounter and Manuel Antonio for a full-day wildlife and beach adventure. No matter which you choose, you’re in for an incredible journey into Costa Rica’s wild heart!

🌿 Pura Vida! 🌿