A Hiker’s Guide to Costa Rica: Trails, Tips & Toucans
Welcome to Costa Rica, where hiking means sweating buckets, imitating howler monkeys, and witnessing landscapes so stunning you’ll wonder if you’ve stepped into a National Geographic documentary. This guide covers the best hikes in the country, complete with logistics, costs, and must-know tips—so you don’t end up lost in the jungle with only a soggy granola bar for company. If you’re looking for the ultimate coast-to-coast thru-hike, and have ~16 days, check out El Camino de Costa Rica ! 1. Cerro Chirripó – The Roof of Costa Rica Location: Chirripó National Park, San Gerardo de Rivas Distance: ~22 km (13.5 miles) one way Elevation Gain: 2,500m (8,200 ft) Time: 2 days (unless you’re superhuman) Difficulty: Brutal but rewarding Cost: • $18 per day for the national park entrance fee • $44 per night for a bed at Base Crestones Lodge • $25–$30 per meal at the lodge (or pack your own food) • Optional guide: $150–$300 (recommended but not required) Why You Should Do I...