Quepos in 1 Day for Families - Guided 2-hour nature walk in Hacienda Barú with wildlife viewing
In Collaboration with Travel Costa Rica Tours. Updated on February 16, 2026.
Half-day guided wildlife tour to Hacienda Barú with a certified naturalist, short stop at Portalón waterfall, and a Costa Rican lunch en route back to Manuel Antonio. Pickup service from Manuel Antonio area is included; entrance fee to the reserve is not included and must be paid on site in cash.
This itinerary was created in collaboration with Travel Costa Rica Tours, inspired by the tour Hacienda Baru Wildlife Nature Tour from Manuel Antonio. Please check the tour information during your booking process.
Highlights
- Guided 2-hour nature walk in Hacienda Barú with wildlife viewing
- Short refreshment stop at Portalón Waterfall (river pools)
- Round-trip transport with pickup and drop-off in Manuel Antonio
- Costa Rican lunch on the return to Manuel Antonio
- Certified naturalist guide explaining ecosystem interactions
Itinerary
Day 1
Pickup in Manuel Antonio, guided nature tour at Hacienda Barú, short stop at Portalón Waterfall for river pools, Costa Rican lunch en route, and return to your Manuel Antonio accommodation.
Pickup in Manuel Antonio
Morning pickup from the Manuel Antonio area to begin the transfer south toward Hacienda Barú. Guests should be ready in their hotel lobby or agreed pickup point at the scheduled time.
Tips from local experts:
- Be ready in your hotel lobby or agreed pickup point 10 minutes before the scheduled pickup time to keep the group on schedule.
- Pack a small daypack with sunscreen, a hat, and any medications you need during the morning.
- If you are staying on a remote access road, confirm with your operator the exact pickup landmark (hotel lobby, main road, or park entrance) the evening before.
Arrival & Check-in at Hacienda Barú
Arrive at Hacienda Barú. Quick check-in and safety briefing, then a guided nature walk with a certified naturalist focusing on local wildlife and ecosystem interactions.
Tips from local experts:
- Entrance fee to Hacienda Barú is not included in the tour price and must be paid on-site in cash; bring local currency in small bills.
- Wear closed-toe shoes and long lightweight pants for trail walking; trails can be uneven and include roots and mud after rain.
- Bring binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens if possible; guides will help point out birds, sloths, monkeys, and other wildlife.
Portalón Waterfall Stop
Short stop at Portalón Waterfall and nearby river pools for a refreshing break and photos. Time provided to relax briefly beside the water.
Tips from local experts:
- Supervise children closely near the water; river pools can have slippery rocks and uneven edges.
- Bring a swimsuit, quick-dry towel, and water shoes if you plan to enter the pools; change facilities may be basic.
- Protect electronics with a small waterproof bag or leave valuables on the vehicle to avoid accidental water damage.
Costa Rican Lunch en route to Manuel Antonio
Stop at a local restaurant on the drive back to Manuel Antonio for a Costa Rican-style lunch suited to families.
Tips from local experts:
- Notify the guide in advance of any food allergies or special dietary needs so the restaurant can accommodate children where possible.
- Many family-style restaurants (sodas) offer kid-friendly portions; request smaller plates if needed.
- Carry small cash notes for incidental purchases; some roadside restaurants may have limited card acceptance.
Return & Drop-off in Manuel Antonio
Short transfer back to your accommodation in the Manuel Antonio area and end of service.
Tips from local experts:
- Gather all personal items before leaving the vehicle; guides will perform a final check but keeping belongings together speeds drop-off.
- If you need assistance with stairs or luggage at your accommodation, let the guide know in advance for a smooth drop-off.
- Expect to arrive back at your accommodation approximately 10–15 minutes after leaving the restaurant, subject to traffic.
Itinerary Attributes
| Days | 1 |
| Highlights | 5 |
| Season | - |
| Month | - |
| Persona | Families |
| Transfers | 2 |
| Restaurants | 1 |
| Total Activities | 3 |
| Total Places | 3 |
| Activities Types | Transfer, Attraction, Outdoor, Meal |