Hiking

Explore Costa Rica's best hiking trails on our travel blog

Discover the country's diverse parks and reserves, many of which boast a network of well-marked trails. Visitors can enjoy a variety of ecosystems and environments including rainforest, dry deciduous forest, volcanoes, coastline and mountains.  Hike through the lowland forests and coastal wetlands of Corcovado National Park and Cahuita National Park, or the chilly mountain trails found in the Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve and Chirripo National Park. Take a heart-pounding jungle trek through Gandoca-Manzanillo National Park, or a tamer expedition through the dry forest of Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

If you really want to see an abundance of wildlife while on the trail, hiring a naturalist guide or joining a small group tour will improve chances. Local guides are trained to spot even the most elusive animals. 

Hikers should not forget to pack insect repellent, snacks, sunscreen, and plenty of water.  Miles are not an accurate measure of trail difficulty or duration.  One five-mile path might be strenuous and take an inexperienced hiker four hours to complete. Another might be flat and ten miles in length, yet take the same four hours to hike. Also keep in mind that estimated times may be under or overestimated depending upon your skill level.  Always hike during the daylight, leaving a few hours of wiggle room to ensure arrival before dusk.

Whether hiking near a volcano, in the tropical rainforest, or near the coast, visitors will be amazed by the scenic landscapes and stunning wildlife in Costa Rica. Bring along some comfortable hiking shoes, long pants, binoculars and a camera – then get moving.