Manuel Antonio General Information
Overview
Manuel Antonio, Costa Rica, is a gem on the Central Pacific coast, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty and vibrant biodiversity. This area is home to the famous Manuel Antonio National Park, which boasts lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and an abundance of wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and exotic birds. The park is a haven for nature enthusiasts and offers hiking trails, snorkeling spots, and stunning ocean views.
The town of Manuel Antonio itself is perched on a hillside, providing panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. It features a mix of luxury resorts, boutique hotels, and charming local eateries, making it a perfect destination for relaxation and adventure.
In terms of accessibility, the closest airport is Quepos Airport (XQP), located approximately 4 kilometers away, making travel to Manuel Antonio convenient and quick. For international travelers, San José’s Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) is about 156 kilometers away, offering a broader range of flight options.
Where to Stay
Whether you’re seeking luxury, boutique charm, or budget-friendly stays, Manuel Antonio has something for every traveler.
Luxury Villas
Manel Antonio Tree House Villas – Luxury Villa in the vibrant Manuel Antonio where you can enjoy amenities such as a private pool with a waterslide, a BBQ area and access to Arenas del Mar Beach Club.
5 Star Hotels
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- Arenas Del Mar Beachfront & Rainforest Resort – Combines luxury with nature, offering beachfront access and a serene rainforest setting. Known for its exceptional service.
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- Gaia Hotel & Reserve – An eco-friendly, adults-only boutique hotel with a focus on sustainability, featuring a spa, fine dining, and breathtaking rainforest views.
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- Makanda by the Sea – A luxury hotel in Manuel Antonio, offering stunning ocean views, a gourmet restaurant, and a relaxing infinity pool.
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- Arenas Del Mar MA
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- Gaia MA
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- Makanda Hotel MA
4 Star Hotels
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- Los Altos Resort – Spacious suites with panoramic ocean views, located near Manuel Antonio National Park. Ideal for families and groups.
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- Shana by the Beach – Offers a blend of modern elegance and natural beauty, surrounded by lush tropical landscapes and breathtaking ocean views.
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- Parador Nature Resort and Spa – Located on Punta Quepos, this resort is surrounded by lush rainforest and offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its wildlife-rich grounds.
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- Los Altos Hotel MA
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- shana hotel MA
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- Hotel Parador MA
3 Star Hotels
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- The Falls Resort at Manuel Antonio – A charming boutique hotel surrounded by tropical gardens, offering cozy rooms and a relaxing atmosphere.
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- Hotel Villas Lirio – A budget-friendly option with comfortable rooms, a pool, and a convenient location near the park.
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- El Faro Containers Beach Hotel – A unique hotel built from shipping containers, offering eco-friendly accommodations and an infinity pool.
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- Falls Resort MA
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- Villas Lirio MA
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- El Faro Hotel MA
Hostels
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- Alma Vida Hotel – A vibrant hostel with a social atmosphere, offering co-working spaces, a pool, and a bar. Great for digital nomads
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- Costa Linda Art Hostel – Known for its artistic vibe and local charm, this hostel is located near Espadilla Beach. It features a restaurant, shared spaces, and a laid-back atmosphere.
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- Teva Eco Retreat – A locally inspired eco-hostel that combines sustainability with comfort. It offers trails, a pool, and a jungle setting, perfect for nature lovers.
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- Selina Manuel Antonio Hotel
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- Costa Linda Art Hostel MA
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- Teva Hostel MA
About Our Properties in Manuel Antonio
Karabi Villas brings to you the most luxurious stay in our Tree House Villas located in the heart of the jungle, that offer the perfect balance between wildlife and comfort. Enjoy the private outdoor pool with a waterslide and the spacious common rooms for you and your loved ones. Stay just 5 minutes away from the Manuel Antonio Beach and Arenas del Mar Beach Club and 10 minutes away from Manuel Antonio National Park, a world-renowned destination known for its breathtaking blend of pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and abundant wildlife. Just steps away, guests can explore Sukia Adventure Park, featuring scenic trails, a butterfly sanctuary, thrilling zipline tours through the canopy, refreshing waterfall swims, and a crocodile rescue farm.
Our Tree House Villas include services such as daily breakfast so you can focus on enjoying nature and relaxing on the pool. For a truly personalized getaway, our full time concierge service on site is here to craft your dream vacation.
Local Attractions
Beaches
Manuel Antonio is home to some of Costa Rica’s most stunning beaches, each with its own unique character:
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- Playa Manuel Antonio: Located within Manuel Antonio National Park, this crescent-shaped beach is famous for its white sand, turquoise waters, and abundant wildlife. It’s perfect for swimming and relaxing.
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- Playa Espadilla: Situated just outside the national park, this expansive beach offers stunning ocean views and activities like parasailing, surfing, and sunbathing.
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- Playa Biesanz: A hidden gem surrounded by lush greenery, this tranquil beach is ideal for snorkeling and enjoying a peaceful atmosphere.
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- Playa Gemelas: Found inside the national park, this small and secluded beach is perfect for those seeking privacy and natural beauty.
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- Playa Playitas: A quieter section of Playa Espadilla, this beach is great for those looking to escape the crowds while still enjoying the scenic coastline.
Nature & Wildlife
Costa Rica’s incredible biodiversity is on full display in Manuel Antonio:
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- Manuel Antonio National Park: A haven of natural beauty, where you can find pristine beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio, vibrant wildlife including monkeys and sloths, and scenic trails through lush rainforest.
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- Tickets must be purchased through the official SINAC platform to ensure authenticity. Foreigners are required to provide their passport number or identification details during the online booking process.
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- Ticket prices start at $18 USD for adults and children aged 12 and above.
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- Manuel Antonio National Park: A haven of natural beauty, where you can find pristine beaches like Playa Manuel Antonio, vibrant wildlife including monkeys and sloths, and scenic trails through lush rainforest.
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- Sukia Adventure Park: Explore a butterfly sanctuary, a crocodile rescue farm, exhilarating zipline tours, and picturesque waterfall trails, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
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- Tour packages start at $45 per person, which includes a certified guide introducing you to Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity.
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- Families are in for a treat with their family plan—children under 4 years old do not pay for Day, Night, Butterflies, or Crocs Tours.
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- Sukia Adventure Park: Explore a butterfly sanctuary, a crocodile rescue farm, exhilarating zipline tours, and picturesque waterfall trails, offering a perfect blend of adventure and tranquility.
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- Rainmaker Conservation Park: This private reserve offers canopy bridges, waterfalls, and trails through pristine rainforest, where you can spot frogs, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
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- Packages start from $20 (plus taxes) and can be booked directly through their website.
For unique experiences, you can request a quote for yoga tours or weddings.
- Packages start from $20 (plus taxes) and can be booked directly through their website.
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- Excitingly, they will soon offer camping platforms for those looking to immerse themselves further in nature.
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- Rainmaker Conservation Park: This private reserve offers canopy bridges, waterfalls, and trails through pristine rainforest, where you can spot frogs, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
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- Manuel Antonio Beach View
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- Sukia Park Manuel Antonio
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- Rainmaker Manuel Antonio
Adventure Activities
For the thrill-seekers:
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- El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour: Experience thrilling zipline rides through the lush rainforest, including Central America’s longest twin zipline.
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- This canopy adventure includes a tour, a delicious Costa Rican lunch and free photos when booking directly through their website.
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- Tickets start from $80 per person (ages 4+) and they also offer a special discount for groups (8+ people) if you plan to experience this with your loved ones!
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- El Santuario Canopy Adventure Tour: Experience thrilling zipline rides through the lush rainforest, including Central America’s longest twin zipline.
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- Manuel Antonio ATV Tour: Explore rugged trails and breathtaking landscapes on an ATV, with refreshing stops at waterfalls for swimming. Their packages include:
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- $110 for 1 person on 1 ATV
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- $140 for 2 people on 1 ATV
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- Manuel Antonio ATV Tour: Explore rugged trails and breathtaking landscapes on an ATV, with refreshing stops at waterfalls for swimming. Their packages include:
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- Damas Island Mangroves: Take a boat or kayak tour through the serene mangrove ecosystem, where you can spot monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
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- The mangrove tours include roundtrip transportation from Quepos and Manauel Antonio, a delicious lunch, a bilingual guide and all the equipment needed for an amazing experience in the wild.
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- For $75 (plus taxes) per person (4+ years old) you get to experience the Costa Rican stunning biodiversity either from a boat or a kayak.
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- Damas Island Mangroves: Take a boat or kayak tour through the serene mangrove ecosystem, where you can spot monkeys, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species in their natural habitat.
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- Canopy Tour
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- ATV Tour
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- Wildlife
Cultural Experiences
Immerse yourself in authentic Costa Rican culture:
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- Quepos Farmers Market (Ferias del Agricultor): A vibrant market held weekly, offering fresh produce, handmade crafts, and local delicacies.
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- Cooking Class Manuel Antonio: Learn to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes while exploring a botanical garden with medicinal plants.
- Prices start at $75 per person.
- Cooking Class Manuel Antonio: Learn to prepare traditional Costa Rican dishes while exploring a botanical garden with medicinal plants.
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- Chocolate Tour Manuel Antonio: A unique experience combining chocolate and coffee tastings, sugarcane juice, and insights into Costa Rican culture.
- Prices start at $62 per person.
- Chocolate Tour Manuel Antonio: A unique experience combining chocolate and coffee tastings, sugarcane juice, and insights into Costa Rican culture.
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- Farmers Market
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- Cooking Class
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- Chocolate Tour
Dining & Nightlife
Top Restaurants
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- Arbol Restaurant – $$$: Located in Hotel Makanda, this fine dining spot offers a luxurious experience with a focus on seafood and contemporary fusion cuisine. Perfect for a special occasion or a romantic evening.
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- Emilio’s Cafe – $$: This charming spot is locally owned and operated. Emilio himself is known for his warm hospitality and dedication to showcasing Costa Rican flavors alongside Mediterranean influences.
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- Falafel Bar – $: This casual Mediterranean eatery is independently owned and operated, with a focus on fresh, homemade dishes. It’s a small, local business that has become a favorite in Manuel Antonio.
Nightlife Options
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- Cuban Republik Disco Lounge: Located in downtown Quepos, this vibrant spot is perfect for dancing to Latin American music like salsa, reggaeton, and bachata. It offers a lively atmosphere, VIP sections, and themed nights like Ladies’ Night.
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- Selina Manuel Antonio: This hostel bar creates a fun and inclusive vibe with themed parties, live music, and social events. It’s a great place to meet people and enjoy a relaxed yet energetic evening.
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- Ape Eclectic Social Bar: This trendy spot offers a chic and relaxed atmosphere, perfect for enjoying craft cocktails and live music. Located on the second floor of the Pura Vida Supermarket, it’s a great place to unwind with friends or meet new people while soaking in the vibrant energy of Manuel Antonio.
Practical Information
Weather & When to Visit
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- Dry Season (December-April): Warm, sunny days and cooler nights; ideal for outdoor adventures and peak tourist season. Prices are higher due to demand.
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- Green Season (May-November): Afternoon showers rejuvenate the rainforest and reduce crowds; perfect for wildlife viewing and lower prices.
Manuel Antonio enjoys a tropical climate year-round, with high humidity levels peaking during the rainy season.
- Green Season (May-November): Afternoon showers rejuvenate the rainforest and reduce crowds; perfect for wildlife viewing and lower prices.
Local Services
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- Medical facilities:
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- Hospital Metropolitano Quepos: located at the Quepos Marina. (43 minutes away)
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- Public Hospital in Quepos: Located on Highway 34, offering 24-hour emergency services.
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- Medical facilities:
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- Grocery stores:
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- Super Joseth: A small supermarket in Manuel Antonio for basic needs.
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- Pali Supermarket: Located in Quepos, offering affordable groceries.
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- BM Supermarket: A larger store in Quepos with a wide selection.
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- Grocery stores:
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- Banks/ATMs: Banco Nacional, Banco de Costa Rica, and BAC San José at Manuel Antonio and Quepos in General.
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- Pharmacies: Farmapolis Pharmacy and Farmacia Galeno.
Sustainability & Conservation
Costa Rica is a world leader in conservation, and Manuel Antonio is no exception:
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- Local conservation initiatives: Manuel Antonio is home to several impactful projects, such as the Coral Reef Restoration Project led by Marine Conservation Costa Rica, which focuses on rehabilitating local coral reefs. Additionally, Manuel Antonio National Park is a prime example of eco-tourism, with strict conservation practices to protect its diverse ecosystems.
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- Tips for being a responsible visitor:
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- Stick to marked trails in the national park to minimize environmental impact.
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- Avoid single-use plastics and bring reusable water bottles.
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- Support local businesses and eco-friendly tours.
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- Participate in beach clean-ups or donate to conservation initiatives.
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- Respect wildlife by observing from a distance and not feeding animals.
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- Tips for being a responsible visitor:
Guest Services
Our dedicated concierge team is available to assist with:
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- Airport transfers and ground transportation.
- Adventure tour bookings (zip lining, ATV tours, waterfall tours).
- Private chef and meal delivery arrangements.
- Grocery pre-stocking before arrival.
- Childcare and family services.
- In-house wellness services like massages and private yoga sessions.
Testimonials
“My favorite trip so far! The staff was so helpful and made our stay wonderful. The rooms were beautiful and very spacious.”
— Ashley Harisson, Florida, USA
“The villa is really impressive. Beachfront, breakfast included. Planning our annual family trip was very easy with Karabi.”
— Anna Simons, North C., USA
Map & Directions
Getting there
Nearest Airport: Quepos La Managua Airport (XQP) –. 8 km away (approx. 15-minute drive). Visitors can take a short domestic flight from San José (SJO) to XQP, operated by Sansa Airlines or Costa Rica Green Airways.
Transportation Options:
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- Private shuttle service.
- Rental car recommendations available.
- Local taxi services are reliable and easy to arrange.
- Public bus routes connect from San José daily.
Ready to Experience Manuel Antonio?
Book your dream escape today and let us handle the details.
Contact us for personalised assistance.
FAQs
- Why Manuel Antonio? Manuel Antonio is one of the top tourist locations in Costa Rica with the #1 most visited national park in the country, some of the densest biodiversity in the region with a multitude of different animals, and some of the most unique and premier amenities/activities in the country.
- What’s so special about the villas? The Villas are right in the middle of Manuel Antonio, a short walk away from the best restaurants in the area, guests in the villas are granted access to Arenas Del Mar beach resort with transport included, and they are set in the privacy of the jungle in contrast to all other comparable villas which are on public roads.
- Arenas Del Mar Beach resort? Arenas Del Mar is a luxury beachfront resort with pools, bars and restaurants surrounded by the rainforest. Our guests get exclusive passes to the resort.
- Are children allowed? Yes children are allowed! We even designed the house to make the stay as enjoyable as possible for families and large groups, for example our waterslide. We have designed the pool and slide area to be visible from all social areas in the house so you can keep an eye on your little ones at all time.
- Who is here to help me during my stay? The villas have a full time concierge service on site that are more than happy to help you with anything and everything you need during your stay.
- Cleaning services The villas come with a full time ‘house mum’ who will be there everyday to cook, clean and just generally tidy the villa.
- Similar villas across Costa Rica Karabi villas also manages a selection of villas in La Fortuna, the town next to the Arenal Volcano. Named Arenal Ridge, we have 7 luxury villas all with the same amenities as our villas in Manuel Antonio, except with stunning views of the Volcano. Please contact info@karabivillas.com if interested.
Note: Prices listed may not include additional fees, charges, or applicable taxes. Please check with the provider for a complete cost breakdown.
Last updated: 05/23/2025