Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
SAVING THE SQUIRREL MONKEY
With its expressive eyes and luxuriant coat, themono tití(Central American squirrel mon-
key) is a favorite among Costa Rica's four monkey species. It is also in danger of extinc-
tion, as there are only roughly 1500 of these animals left in Manuel Antonio, one of its last
remaining native habitats.
Overdevelopment is one of the animal's greatest threats. To remedy this problem, a
conservation project known as the Titi Conservation Alliance ( 2777-2306;
www.monotiti.org ) is taking bold measures to prevent further decline. This coalition of or-
ganizations is helping to create a sustainable wildlife corridor between Parque Nacional
Manuel Antonio and the Zona Protectora Cerro Nara in the northeast.
To achieve this aim, it is reforesting the Río Naranjo, a key waterway linking the two loc-
ations. More than 10,000 trees have already been planted along 8km of the Naranjo. This
not only has the effect of extending the monkeys' habitat but also provides a protected
area for other wildlife to enjoy. Scientists at the Universidad Nacional de Costa Rica have
mapped and selected sites for reforestation, and business owners in the area as well as
private donations support the project financially.
Sleeping
The Quepos-Manuel Antonio road is heavily skewed towards ultra-top-end hotels, but
plenty of noteworthy midrange accommodations and excellent budget hostels are hidden
along the way. High-season rates are provided throughout this section, though - as else-
where in the region - low-season rates can be as much as 40% lower. Reservations are an
absolute must for busy weekends and holiday seasons. Although the sleeping options
along the Quepos-Manuel Antonio road are closer to the park than those in Quepos, many
of them will still require a taxi or a long walk along the busy road to reach the park.
Vista Serena Hostel HOSTEL
( MAP GOOGLE MAP ; 2777-5162; www.vistaserena.com ; incl breakfast dm US$10-16, bungalows
without bathroom US$45-60; )
In an area that is hopelessly overpriced, it's a relief to find such a great budget hostel.
Perched scenically on a quiet hillside, this memorable spot allows guests to enjoy spectac-
ular ocean sunsets from a hammock-filled terrace and strum the communal guitar. The
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