The rainforest changes after dark. Diurnal animals sleep, and a different cast comes out: red-eyed tree frogs, glass frogs, snakes, tarantulas, scorpions and nocturnal mammals. The night walk is a guided small-group tour of about two hours, limited to eight people, with flashlights and a spotting scope for digital photos of what you find. It meets at Sukia Park at kilometre four on the Manuel Antonio road, and there is an admission fee of US$13 per person, paid in cash on arrival, which is not included in the booking price. The tour has about 258 reviews and a 4.7 rating, and reviewers praise the guides' knowledge and the wildlife, particularly the frogs, spiders, snakes and scorpions. Critical reviews mention a change of location, crowded trails and the extra fee, so this is best taken as a good-value small-group walk with some operational quirks. Free cancellation applies up to twenty-four hours before the start, and the page advises against it for pregnant travellers and people with back or heart problems, and asks for closed shoes.
Why go after dark
The national park closes at four in the afternoon, so night is the only time to see nocturnal wildlife in the forest here, and it is a very different experience to the daytime tour. Guides can find animals by their eyeshine and sounds, and a spotting scope lets you take photos through the eyepiece. You will not see everything, and sightings are never guaranteed, but frogs are a regular find, especially in the wetter months.
Know before you go
The walk has at times been moved to Sukia from its advertised location because of trail conditions, so confirm the meeting point with the operator before you set out. Reviews also conflict on whether hotel pickup is included, so ask. Wear closed shoes with grip, long trousers and a light long-sleeved top, apply repellent, and bring a light rain jacket in the green season, from May to November, when evenings often bring showers.
Do not wear perfume, keep your voice low and let the guide handle all animals, since many of the creatures you will see are venomous or delicate.
Fitting it in
The walk is a perfect first-evening activity when you arrive, or a good Tuesday plan, when the national park is closed. Combine it with an early dinner beforehand, since the walk takes about two hours. If you prefer a daytime wildlife experience, take the national park tour; if you prefer water, take the mangrove night safari or the boat tour. This is the best choice for travellers who love frogs, insects and reptiles, and a poorer one for travellers who want large mammals or an easy stroll.
What to expect
The experience
A small-group walk of about two hours after dark with a guide, flashlights and a spotting scope, with a separate admission fee paid in cash on arrival.
Best time
After dark, ideally on your first evening or on a Tuesday when the national park is closed.
How long
About two hours.
Tips
Wear closed grip shoes and long sleeves, bring repellent and cash for the admission fee, and confirm the meeting point and pickup beforehand.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers who love frogs, snakes, insects and a bit of nighttime adventure.
- Families
- Check the operator for age notes, and keep children close, since the trails are dark and the animals can be venomous.
- Couples
- A memorable, low-cost evening that feels more adventurous than a restaurant.
- Pair with
- An early dinner, then a morning in the national park the next day.
- Time needed
- A short evening, about two hours plus travel.
Good questions
What can I see on the night walk?+
Reviewers mention frogs, spiders, snakes and scorpions, with guides using flashlights and a spotting scope. Sightings are never guaranteed.
Is there an extra fee?+
Yes. There is an admission fee of US$13 per person, paid in cash on arrival and not included in the tour price. Confirm the current amount when you book.
Where does the walk start?+
The walk meets at Sukia Park, at kilometre four on the Manuel Antonio road, although it has at times moved from its advertised place, so confirm before you go.
What should I wear?+
Closed shoes with grip, long trousers and a light long-sleeved top, with repellent and a rain jacket in the green season.
How big are the groups?+
Groups are limited to eight travellers, which keeps the walk relaxed and makes it easier to see what the guide finds.
