Nestled along the Pacific coast of Costa Rica, Manuel Antonio National Park is a jewel in the crown of the country’s tourism sector, drawing scores of domestic and international visitors each year to its pristine beaches and lush rainforests. Despite its popularity and undeniable natural allure, the park is currently facing critical challenges that threaten its reputation and sustainability. Tour guides, who shepherd eager tourists through this ecological wonder, are sounding the alarm, fearing that neglect and poor management are jeopardizing not just the visitor experience but the very essence of the park itself.
The bustling activity at Manuel Antonio can be described as nothing short of chaotic, especially during peak vacation periods. Tour guides lament the stark conditions at the park’s entrance—too small and ill-equipped to handle the high season rush, it often becomes a bottleneck of frustration for visitors. The situation inside the park isn’t much better.
Reports of inadequate facilities, including a lack of potable water and poorly maintained restrooms, paint a grim picture of neglect. The congestion does not end at the gates. Outside, crowds gather in disarray, often met by aggressive touts stopping tourists.
The atmosphere is far from the tranquil escape one might expect from such a renowned natural sanctuary. According to the professionals who navigate this landscape daily, the chaotic management extends beyond inconvenience, suggesting a systemic failur.