Manuel Antonio Activities
What to do during your stay at Villas Nicolas
During your stay with us there are numerous activities available in the area ranging from active to hammock swinging! The Manuel Antonio/Quepos area is well known for sport fishing as well as white water rafting, sea kayaking, dolphin watches, sunset cruises, horseback riding, and guided tours of Manuel Antonio National Park.
Lying back on our golden sand beaches and enjoying the incredible beauty of the pristine Pacific Ocean is always a good option. In the high season, we strongly advise you to book at least one day in advance of the tour to be sure to secure a spot. In order to secure your reservation, the majority of tours require a cash deposit of approximately 20%. Please be advised that some tour companies have a surcharge of 5%-7% for credit cards (ask at the reception).
Tours are still unregulated here so consequently there are many “fly-by-nighters “who prey on unsuspecting tourists, especially in the National Park area. The Tours & activities that we recommend have all been sampled by at least one staff member as well as many family members and friends. The tours we recommend are run by reputable, certified and trained guides from the community and most have been operating for years. We strongly advise that you book directly with our front desk to be sure that the tour you want is offered by a reputable certified company. Please ask at the reception for more detailed information.
ATV Four Wheeler in the Rainforest (4 hrs)
Four Wheeler Adventure Tour provides an exhilarating experience as you ride to a river with a waterfall & natural ponds for swimming. There are breathtaking mountain views and you can observe the incredible primary forest of surrounding the area. Please note that ATV tours are not “animal watch” tours due to the noise of the vehicles.
Includes: Transportation from Hotel, bilingual guide, a meal, snacks and drinks,
Schedule & duration: 7:30am, 10:30am and 1pm. 4 1/2hrs.
Price: Starting at $110 single & $140 double
(Rates subject to change without notice)
What to bring: tennis or hiking shoes, camera, backpack, towel, sunblock, repellent
Butterfly Garden & Reptile Lagoons
Conveniently located across the street from our property this is a private reserve for nature lovers. Learn and see the butterfly metamorphosis and visit the reptile lagoons where you will find crocodiles, caimans, lizards
Includes: bilingual naturalist guide, 1:15 hrs duration.
Schedule: Every hour on the hour
Price: $29 p/person
What to bring: Camera and hiking or tennis shoes.
Bird Watching at the Wildlife Refuge
This is a great opportunity to watch some of the greatest Neotropical birds of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific. You can sight the Blue crowned Manakin, Slaty-tailed Trogon and Orange billed Sparrow among another 35 to 55 species throughout the year.
Includes: professional naturalist guide, 2 hours duration.
Price: $35 per person.
Bring: binoculars and comfortable walking shoes.
Catamaran Boat Tours
Experience Manuel Antonio on a catamaran. Explore our local protected islands and bays which are only accessible by boat. Swim, snorkel, and observe coastal wildlife ( tropical fish, birds, sea turtles, dolphins and sometimes even whales).
Includes: transportation, fruit, lunch, drinks and snorkeling equipment, 4 hour trip.
Price: $80 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 8:20am, 1:30pm
What to bring: Beach Towel, Bathing suit, suntan lotion & repellent if you go in the evening
Canopy Tours El Santuario
Our newest canopy tour in the area yet it is one of the most exciting ones! It is located in a primary and secondary forest and features beautiful landscapes and ocean views as well as the longest zip line in Costa Rica! In total, the canopy tour has over 3.6 kilometers of zip line length on 11 lines, 14 tree platforms, 3 nature walks, 6 hanging bridges, a rappel secured by a top and bottom relay, and air stairs. Excellent safety standards, service, and we recommend it highly .
Includes: a meal, transportation, professional guides and all equipment. 4 hours duration
Price: $80 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 7:20am, 10:20am, 1 pm
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera
Canopy Safari
Is located just outside of Quepos and it offers 20 platforms, 9 zip lines & 2 repelling lines built in the canopy of the rainforest. There are some lovely River and waterfall views .It is suitable for anyone over the age of 5 in moderate physical condition. It has two suspension bridges, which incorporate a TARZAN TYPE swing.
Includes: a meal, transportation, professional guides and all equipment. 5 hours duration
Price: $95 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 6:45am, 9:15am, 1:30 pm
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera
Canopy Midworld
Offers 10 zip lines with 15 platforms, 2 rappel lines and a treetop suspension bridge. Very little walking or hiking is required for this tour. They offer international safety standards and feature a dual line system which ensures your security without compromising your ride enjoyment. Midworld is located in an area called Cotos near the Canas River. They have a Rancho where they serve breakfast or lunch depending on the time of your tour. There is a surcharge for the Superman cable which is one of the longest lines in Central America!! This is a double-cabled ride of more than 1 kilometer long you where you will literally fly!
Includes: a meal, transportation, professional guides and all equipment. 4 1/2 hours duration
Price: $85 per person
Schedule: 7:30am, 10:00am, 1:00 pm
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera, sunblock, repellent
Canopy Titi (3 hrs)
A series of 12 zip line cables reaching up to 450 meters (1,475 ft) take guests throughout the unspoiled rainforest canopy on an exclusive tour. Skillfully designed nature walks rivalling those found in Manuel Antonio National Park and a beautiful butterfly garden are all incorporated on the grounds of the Titi Canopy Tour. It is ideal for those who wish to avoid lengthy traveling time as it is located
Only 15 minutes away.
Includes: a meal, transportation, professional guides and all equipment. 2 hours duration
Price: $80 per person
Schedule: 7:30am, 11:00am, 2:30 pm
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera
Horseback Riding
For an experience you won’t soon forget, see the outlying areas in typical Costa Rican fashion – on horseback. Experienced guides lead you into the mountains where you will ride through the jungle and swim under beautiful waterfalls. This small intimate tour finishes up with a delicious typical Costa Rican full course meal.
Includes: Transportation, bilingual guides, equipment, snacks and lunch. Half-day tour
Price: $75 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 7:30am & 1:30pm
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera, long pants, swim suit, towel, hat & mosquito repellent
Jet Ski Tours and/or Rentals
Enjoy a unique 2 hour excursion on Yamaha wave runners to see the sights around Manuel Antonio National Park. Look for dolphins, snorkel (snorkeling gear included), and experience the coast and numerous small coves along the way. Individual Jet Ski rentals are also available upon request for $75 (30 minutes) and $115 (1 hour).
Includes: Transportation
Price: $130 single, $160.00 dbl
Schedule: 7:30am, 10:00am, 1:00pm, 3:00pm
What to bring: waterproof camera, swim suit, towel, sun protection
Ocean Kayaking
If you are looking for a bit of a challenge try Ocean kayaking along the Pacific coast while viewing Manuel Antonio from the ocean.
Manuel Antonio Coastal Paddle: A more challenging open ocean paddle along one of Costa Rica’s most beautiful coastlines. Nearby islands are nesting sites for boobies and frigate birds. We stop for a swim and snacks in isolated Biesanz Bay and lunch at the end of the trip, near the National Park.
Includes: Transportation, food. 4 hours duration.
Price: $65 single
Schedule: depends on the tide
What to bring: waterproof camera, swim suit, towel, sun protection
Kayaking in the Mangroves
Quepos/Manuel Antonio is a perfect place to experience this unique form of water sport. Kayak through the mangroves and explore the abundant wildlife that resides therein. Isla Damas Estuary: Paddle protected inland waterways. This is the perfect place to explore the coastal mangrove area and view local wildlife.
Includes: Transportation, food. 4 hours duration
Price: $65 single
Schedule: depends on the tide
What to bring: waterproof camera, swim suit, towel, sun protection
Manuel Antonio National Park Guided Tour
Don’t take a chance and miss any of the diverse flora & fauna within the National Park. Tour the park with an experienced, knowledgeable Costa Rican Certified guide who speaks English and is equipped with a telescope and binoculars. Here you can often see many species of birds, animals, and plants which co-exist within this protected area of rainforest. There are 3 beautiful beaches with nothing on them in the park and the trails are easy to navigate if you just want to “veg” out for the day .
Includes: Transportation, Park entrance fee. 3 1/2 hours duration
Price: $45 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 7:00am
What to bring: waterproof camera, swim suit, towel, sun protection, hiking shoes, mosquito repellent.
Mangrove Boat tours at Damas Island Estuary
*Highly recommended for the whole family*. Treat yourself and your family regardless of age to a relaxing half-day cruise while enjoying warm breezes, abundant wildlife, and the exquisite beauty of Isla Damas with a bilingual naturalist certified guide.
Includes: Transportation, food. 4 hours duration.
Price: $65 per person
Schedule: Depends on the tide
What to bring: camera, mosquito repellent, sunblock
Nocturnal Jungle Walk
According to a number of studies, the largest percentage of animals of most groups are active mostly or exclusively at night, especially when the sun goes down. Photographers call this the “blue hours” from the 18:00 – 20:00 hours, depending on your location and altitude.
Includes: Transportation, Park entrance fee. 3 hours duration
Price: $55 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 5:00pm
What to bring: camera, hiking shoes, long pants, mosquito repellent.
Rafting in Naranjo or Savegre rivers.
Whether you are an experienced rafter or rafting for the first time, the Quepos/Manuel Antonio area offers all classes of white water rafting. Experienced Certified guides lead you safely down some of the most beautiful mountain rivers in the world coupled with plenty of excitement and challenge. Half and full day trips are available.
Naranjo River Class III & IV: A half day challenge for more experienced paddlers. The Naranjo drops steeply from the mountains above Quepos, through a beautiful jungle gorge and takes you on a wild ride to sea level passing nearby farmlands and palm plantations. Water levels can rise quickly on this river upping the difficulty and adrenaline levels so rafters should be physically fit and adventurous.
Includes: Transportation, snacks, Half day
Price: $124 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 8:00am to 12:00m
What to bring: Strapped Sandals, Mosquito repellent, towel.
Savegre River Class II & III: This is almost a full day trip with a waterfall walk included in the tour as well! This is for less experienced adventurers.
Includes: Transportation, snacks, lunch, waterfall. Full day
Price: $139 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 8:00am to 3:00pm
What to bring: Strapped Sandals, Mosquito repellent, towel.
El Chorro class IV & V: This is a more advanced adventure for those who are not afraid of new challenges. Previous rafting experience is recommended .
Includes: Transportation, snacks, lunch, waterfall. Half day
Price: $129 per person
Schedule: 8:00am to 1:00pm (Dry season only)
What to bring: Strapped Sandals, Mosquito repellent, towel.
Rainmaker Private Park
Trek through the jungle and explore the forest canopy walking through primary forest on numerous suspension bridges to pristine waterfall suitable for swimming (most of the year ) Sunrise bird watching tours are sometimes available. Bring your bathing suit, camera and binoculars.
Includes: Transportation, Park fee, lunch. 5 hours duration.
Price: $75 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 7:30am
What to bring: Hiking shoes, camera, hat, bathing suit, binoculars, Mosquito repellent.
Surf Lessons
Have you always dreamed of riding those waves? The bathwater temperature and consistent waves of Manuel Antonio make our beach a perfect classroom. Local surfers start you off right in the waves, on big, stable learner longboards so that you can get up your first day. They also offer a full day for experienced surfers at Playa Rey located an hour or so south of here.
Includes: Transportation, snacks, water, chairs and surfboards. 3 hours duration.
Price: $80 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 9:00am & 1:00pm
What to bring: bathing suite, towel, sun protection.
Sportfishing Charters
If sport fishing for Sailfish, Mahi-Mahi, Marlin, Yellow Fin Tuna or a variety of other fish is of interest, then Quepos/Manuel Antonio is just the place for you. Prices range from $350 to $1000 depending on whether you share a boat, the size of boat, full or half-day trip, and in-shore or offshore fishing. All of the fishing tours include equipment, bait, snacks, and beverages. A one-time fishing license fee of $15/per person (1 year expiration) will be charged at the dock.
Vanilla Farm Tour
A walking tour of a local Vanilla Farm located 10 miles east of Quepos. This farm is a tropical laboratory for sustainable agriculture and contains cash crops such as vanilla, cinnamon, cocoa, black pepper, all spice, as well as a collection of orchids, bromeliads and tillandsias. It is a very informative tour in a country setting. They have an on site shop if you wish to purchase many of the items you see grown there. It costs $50 per person inc. transport. Traveling time is approximately 30 minutes each way.
Includes: Transportation, entrance fee, tasting. 2 1/2 hours duration.
Price: $60 per person
(Rates subject to change without notice)
Schedule: 8:30am & 12:30pm (Monday to Friday)
What to bring: camera.
Kids Saving the Rainforest
Kids Saving the Rainforest is a non-profit organization based in Quepos, Costa Rica.
Aislin Livingstone ,the daughter of our GM ,was one of its original founders over 20 years ago. KSTF operates a wildlife sanctuary that is home to nearly 50 animals which cannot be released back into the wild. They offer educational tours of the sanctuary in order to encourage respect for wildlife and to help people learn about the pros and cons of human-wildlife interaction, the pet trade, and how to engage in ecologically responsible tourism. They also operate a rescue center which rescues over 100 animals each year with the primary goal of rehabilitating them in the hope of releasing them back into the wild.
Includes: Transportation, refreshments. 2 hours duration.
Price: $60 per person
Schedule: 8:15am
What to bring: camera.
…..AND LAST BUT NOT LEAST
In Room Massage
After a busy day touring the area, why not treat yourself to a relaxing massage on your deck or in the privacy of your villa. Swedish and/or deep tissue style massages are offered by our favorite local qualified masseuse. Very reasonably priced from $50 per 60 minutes (must book at least 24 hrs. in advance).
Terra Spa at Gaia
Gaia offers a full range of treatments from facials and body polishes to pedicures and hot stone massage. We have their spa menu in our reception for your perusal. Reservations in advance are strongly recommended. They usually offer pick up service at no extra cost.
Yoga and Pilate Classes
Everyone is welcome at HOLIS regardless of your level. Holis is just a 5 minute walk from our property. Classes are offered daily and some packages are available . Ask at reception for more details .
PLEASE Contact us with any questions you may have regarding these activities.