Sendero Punta Catedral
A scenic rainforest trail leading to breathtaking coastal viewpoints, teeming with monkeys and sloths.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Sendero Punta Catedral
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more wildlife
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic rainforest trail leading to breathtaking coastal viewpoints, teeming with monkeys and sloths.
"Absolutely stunning views and a great chance to see wildlife up close!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is well-maintained but involves walking. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
🐒 Spot Wildlife Early
Monkeys and sloths are most active in the morning. Arrive early for the best chances to see them.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Cathedral Point Views
Punta Catedral
Panoramic ocean vistas and lush forest views await at the summit. A truly stunning perspective of the coastline.
Abundant Wildlife
Along the trail
Keep an eye out for monkeys and sloths in their natural habitat. The trail offers unique wildlife spotting opportunities.
Informative Nature Trail
Sendero Punta Catedral
Learn about the local flora and fauna from informative plaques along the well-maintained path.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything
Embrace the Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is well-maintained but involves walking. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
🐒 Spot Wildlife Early
Monkeys and sloths are most active in the morning. Arrive early for the best chances to see them.
Manuel Antonio - worth it?
📚 Read the Plaques
Information boards along the trail offer fascinating insights into the local trees and plants.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Punta Catedral are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The trail is well-maintained but involves walking. Good footwear is essential for enjoying the hike.
🐒 Spot Wildlife Early
Monkeys and sloths are most active in the morning. Arrive early for the best chances to see them.
📚 Read the Plaques
Information boards along the trail offer fascinating insights into the local trees and plants.
📸 Capture the Views
The panoramic views from Punta Catedral are breathtaking. Don't forget your camera!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Sendero Punta Catedral for its stunning panoramic views and abundant wildlife sightings, particularly monkeys and sloths. The well-maintained trail offers an enriching nature experience beyond the beaches, though some note it can get warm and crowded during peak times.
"One of the most worthwhile parts of the Manuel Antonia National Park. It affords you some wild glimpses through the trees and the certainty of seeing monkeys."
Nate Evans
"Beautiful opportunity for hiking, some wildlife, read the information plaques about trees and flora, and views you will not experience from the beach areas!"
Beckett Prado
"Nice walk good trail"
Christopher Flake
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Sendero Punta Catedral is located within Manuel Antonio National Park. You can reach the park entrance via public bus from Quepos or by taxi. Once inside the park, follow the signs for the Punta Catedral trail.
Yes, there are paid parking lots available near the park entrance. It's advisable to arrive early as they can fill up, especially during peak season.
Taxis are readily available in Quepos and can take you directly to the Manuel Antonio National Park entrance. Confirm the fare before starting your journey.
The local bus is a very affordable and convenient option. Buses run frequently between Quepos and Manuel Antonio, stopping near the park entrance.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Yes, access to Sendero Punta Catedral is included with your entrance ticket to Manuel Antonio National Park. It's recommended to purchase tickets online in advance to avoid queues.
Manuel Antonio National Park is typically open from Tuesday to Sunday, from around 7 AM to 4 PM. It is closed on Mondays. Always check the official park website for the most current hours.
Entrance fees vary for Costa Rican citizens and foreigners. Foreigner prices are typically around $18 USD. Check the official SINAC website for the latest pricing.
While sometimes possible, it's highly recommended to buy your tickets online in advance through the official SINAC website. This guarantees entry and saves you time.
Yes, single-use plastics, certain foods, and large bags are often restricted. Pack light and bring a reusable water bottle. Check park regulations before your visit.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The hike itself is relatively short, usually taking about 30-60 minutes round trip, depending on your pace and how often you stop for photos or wildlife viewing.
Yes, the trail is generally suitable for children. It's a moderate walk with some inclines, but the educational plaques and wildlife sightings make it engaging for younger visitors.
You have a good chance of spotting white-faced capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, and two-toed or three-toed sloths. You might also see iguanas and various bird species.
Restroom facilities are available near the park entrance and at some key points within the park, but not directly on the Punta Catedral trail itself. Plan accordingly.
While Punta Catedral itself is a viewpoint, there are beautiful beaches within Manuel Antonio National Park where you can swim. Be aware of any posted safety warnings.
📸 📸 Photography
The summit of Punta Catedral offers the most dramatic panoramic shots of the coastline. Look for clearings in the trees along the trail for unique wildlife photography opportunities.
It can be challenging as wildlife is often high in the trees or moving quickly. A zoom lens is highly recommended for capturing clear shots of monkeys and sloths.
Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, which is ideal for photography. The golden hour before sunset can be particularly magical.
No, drones are generally prohibited within national parks in Costa Rica, including Manuel Antonio, to protect wildlife and maintain a peaceful environment.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Tips for families: Bring plenty of water and snacks (check park restrictions on food). Consider visiting in the morning when kids have more energy and wildlife is more active. The relatively short duration of the hike also makes it suitable for younger attention spans. Ensure everyone wears comfortable shoes for the walk.
🚶♀️ Nature Enthusiasts & Hikers
Recommendations: Take your time to appreciate the smaller details of the forest. Bring binoculars for better wildlife viewing and a good camera to capture the scenery and any animal encounters. Reading the information plaques will enrich your understanding of the park's biodiversity.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Wildlife Encounters on the Trail
Beyond the primates and sloths, the trail is also home to various reptiles and birds. You might spot iguanas basking in the sun or a colorful array of tropical birds flitting between branches. The informative plaques along the path provide valuable context about the species you might encounter, enhancing the educational aspect of your walk. This immersive experience is a significant draw for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Pro Tip: While wildlife sightings are common, they are never guaranteed. Visiting during the quieter hours of the early morning or late afternoon can increase your chances of seeing animals when they are more active and before the main crowds arrive. Patience and a keen eye are your best tools for a successful wildlife spotting adventure.
The Scenic Hike to Punta Catedral
The highlight of the hike is undoubtedly reaching Punta Catedral, a rocky promontory that juts out into the Pacific Ocean. From here, you are rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the coastline, the turquoise waters, and the surrounding verdant landscape. It's a fantastic spot for reflection and to appreciate the sheer beauty of the region. Many visitors find this viewpoint to be one of the most memorable parts of their park visit.
Considerations: While the hike is rewarding, it can get warm and humid, especially during midday. Bringing water and wearing appropriate footwear are essential. The trail is also a prime location for spotting wildlife, so take your time, pause frequently, and enjoy the natural wonders around you.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit