Costa Rica has enough trails to keep serious hikers stepping for a long time, and the scenery those routes pass ranges from lowland rain forests to brisk mountain valleys. The routes themselves are as varied as the scenery, ranging from invigorating jaunts in the mountains near San José to backpacking adventures that lead you into the heart of the country's wilderness.
Nearly all of Costa Rica's national parks have short trails that can be hiked in an hour or two, while others have routes that take the better part of a day to complete, such as the trails to the top of Barva and Rincón de le Vieja Volcanoes. Santa Rosa, Corcovado and Chirripó National Parks have longer backpacking routes, which require several overnights in tents or Parks Service cabins. There are also plenty of well marked hiking trails in the country's growing number of private reserves.
Even though hiking isn’t as developed as other sports like bicycling, birdwatching, deep-sea fishing or surfing, it’s starting to evolve rapidly through local and foreign tour agencies. Many hotels that are located in rural and natural areas have taken the initiative of hiring a guide for hiking trips. Many hotels located around volcanoes like the Arenal, Poas or Turrialba, offer walks around the volcano or even up to the crater.
Whether you’re hiking in a rainforest, near a volcano or along the coast, you will encounter stunning natural sites in Costa Rica. Hiking is a good option for getting to know the country at a closer level than from the window of an air-conditioned bus. Just remember to take all the necessary objects to assure you a safe and comfortable trip.
Hiking Monteverde
The spectacular Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve. Feels like walking in a grandiose green Cathedral. Wind-sculptured elfin woodlands on the exposed ridges are spectacularly dwarfed, whereas protected cove Monteverde rainforests have majestically tall trees festooned with orchids, bromeliads, ferns, vines, and mosses.
Poorly drained areas support swamp forests while parts of the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, dissected by deep gorges, have numerous crystal clear streams tumbling over rapids and waterfalls. The variable climate and large altitudinal gradient has helped produce an extremely high biodiversity. Spectacular wildlife includes the Jaguar, Ocelot, Baird´s Tapir, Three-wattled Bellbird, Bare necked Umbrella bird and the famous elusive Resplendent Quetzal.
Other Hiking Areas
Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes
Tapanti
Rincón de la Vieja
Rio Savegre
Manuel Antonio National Park
Arenal Volcano
Cerro Chato and La Fortuna Waterfall Hike
The Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Hike |
