Cerro Chirripó: Conquer Costa Rica's Highest Peak
Hike to the top of Costa Rica! Cerro Chirripó offers stunning views & a challenging trek through diverse ecosystems. A must-do for adventure seekers.
Cerro Chirripó, the highest point in Costa Rica, offers a challenging yet rewarding hiking experience. Ascend through diverse ecosystems to witness breathtaking panoramic views from its 3,820-meter summit.
A brief summary to Cerro Chirripó
- Limón, Limón Province, CR
Local tips
- Book permits and lodging at Crestones Base Camp well in advance, especially for weekends and holidays.
- Hike during the dry season (January-April) for the best weather conditions and clearer views.
- Pack layers of clothing as temperatures can vary drastically, from warm during the day to below freezing at night.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as the hike is strenuous and takes several hours.
- Check in at the park office and Crestones Base Camp office in San Gerardo de Rivas the day before your hike.
Getting There
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Walking
The primary access point for Cerro Chirripó is the village of San Gerardo de Rivas. From the center of San Gerardo de Rivas, it's approximately a 2.5 km (1.6 miles) walk to the Cerro Chirripó trailhead. The road is well-marked, and the walk takes around 30-45 minutes. Many hotels are located closer to the trailhead to shorten the distance. There is no fee for walking to the trailhead.
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Public Transport
To reach San Gerardo de Rivas by public transport, take a bus from San José to San Isidro de El General (Perez Zeledon). Buses depart from Terminal Coca Cola in San José every hour from 5:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. The journey takes approximately 3 hours. From San Isidro, take the bus to San Gerardo de Rivas from the San Isidro terminal at 5:00 a.m. or 2:00 p.m.. As of 2024, the bus from San Jose to Perez Zeledon costs 4,020 CRC (approximately $7.50 USD). The bus from San Isidro to San Gerardo de Rivas is approximately 1000 CRC (approximately $2 USD).
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Driving
From San José, take the Pan-American Highway (Route 2) south towards San Isidro de El General. The drive is approximately 3.5 hours. From San Isidro, follow Route 242 towards Rivas for approximately 8.5 km. At a Y-shaped intersection, turn right onto the road leading to San Gerardo de Rivas. Parking is available in San Gerardo de Rivas, but it can be limited, especially during peak season. Expect to pay around 2,000-3,000 CRC (approximately $4-6 USD) for a day of parking.
Discover more about Cerro Chirripó
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Retreat Center
11.5 km
Escape to Finca Mia: A tranquil Costa Rican retreat in the cloud forest, offering rejuvenation, yoga, and connection with nature.
Hacienda AltaGracia, Auberge Resorts Collection
19.3 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Hacienda AltaGracia: luxury casitas, wellness, adventure, and authentic culture in the Talamanca Mountains.
Kinkara Luxury Retreat
20.1 km
Experience eco-luxury in Costa Rica's Southern Zone at Kinkara Luxury Retreat, a mountain haven for nature, wellness, and unique glamping.
Mirador Valle del General
23.5 km
Breathtaking valley views from a mountainside perch, offering tranquility and adventure near San Isidro de El General.
Cámara de Comercio Pérez Zeledón
26.6 km
Your gateway to exploring Pérez Zeledón: Discover local attractions, culture, and essential visitor information at our Chamber of Commerce.
Cerro de la Muerte
30.1 km
Discover breathtaking views and unique ecosystems at Costa Rica's Cerro de la Muerte, the highest point on the Inter-American Highway.
Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge
35.7 km
Escape to Dantica Cloud Forest Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: Experience luxury eco-lodging, stunning views, and unparalleled birdwatching in Costa Rica's cloud forests.
Trogon Lodge
35.7 km
Escape to Trogon Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: A cloud forest paradise for birdwatching, nature walks, and tranquil relaxation.
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
35.7 km
Discover a cloud forest paradise at Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa: birdwatching, nature trails, and family hospitality in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel Sueños del Bosque Lodge
35.9 km
Escape to a tranquil cloud forest paradise: cozy lodging, birdwatching, and nature's beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Miriam's Quetzals
36.0 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors and breathtaking birdwatching at Miriam's Quetzals in the heart of Copey's cloud forest.
Pizzería los Colibríes.
36.0 km
Savor delicious Italian pizza in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, where hummingbirds flutter and stunning views abound.
Las Cataratas Lodge
36.1 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest retreat in San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica, with stunning waterfalls and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Hotel de Montaña Suria
36.3 km
Experience tranquility in San Gerardo de Dota at Hotel de Montaña Suria: mountain views, cozy rooms, and nature's doorstep.
Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
39.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: Hike through cloud forests, spot the resplendent quetzal, and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
Unmissable attractions to see
Laguna Ditkevi
2.0 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Ditkevi in Talamanca, Costa Rica – a hidden paradise for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
Parque Nacional Chirripó
3.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Chirripó, Costa Rica's highest national park, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Cloudbridge Nature Reserve
9.9 km
Explore Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, a lush haven in Costa Rica, where diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes await nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Entrada al sendero Parque Nacional Chirripo
10.6 km
Explore the stunning trails of Chirripó National Park, the highest peak in Costa Rica, and immerse yourself in breathtaking nature.
Jardines Secretos
12.5 km
Explore the vibrant flora and serene landscapes of Jardines Secretos, a tranquil oasis near Parque Nacional Chirripo, Rivas, Costa Rica.
Cerro Ena
14.6 km
Explore the stunning vistas of Cerro Ena, a majestic mountain peak in Costa Rica's Talamanca region, where the Pacific and Caribbean coasts converge.
Chirripo Oasis
15.0 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Chirripo Oasis, a must-visit nature escape in Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Agro San Miguel Adventures
16.1 km
Discover Costa Rica's rural charm with hiking, camping, and nature at Agro San Miguel Adventures near Zapotal.
Quebradas Biological Center
22.6 km
Explore the lush biodiversity at Quebradas Biological Center, a nature lover's paradise in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Pérez Zeledón.
Topolandia Costa Rica
26.2 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant nature at Topolandia Costa Rica, a premier destination for adventure and tranquility.
Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
26.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican craft beer and cuisine at Chirripóberg, a brewery, bar, and restaurant near San Isidro de El General.
Batsu Garden
36.0 km
Discover tranquility amidst vibrant flora at Batsu Garden, a picturesque escape in Costa Rica's Copey District, perfect for nature lovers and relaxation seekers.
Café Don Emilio.
37.0 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican culture at Café Don Emilio, where rich coffee and serene landscapes come together in San Isidro de El General.
Chapel in the Clouds
38.3 km
Discover tranquility at the Chapel in the Clouds, a hidden sanctuary in Costa Rica's Puntarenas, offering spiritual reflection and stunning vistas.
Wildlife Refuge La Marta
40.2 km
Immerse yourself in the lush landscapes of Wildlife Refuge La Marta, a breathtaking nature preserve in Costa Rica's Cartago Province, perfect for wildlife enthusiasts.
Essential places to dine
Truchero Los Cocolisos
11.4 km
Discover the freshness of local trout at Truchero Los Cocolisos – where every dish tells a story of Costa Rican culinary tradition.
Talamanca Nature Reserve
11.4 km
Explore Talamanca Nature Reserve: A Biodiversity Haven with Scenic Trails and Eco-Friendly Dining in Costa Rica.
Robino's Foodies Restaurant - ClOSED FOR THE SEASON -
11.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Robino's Foodies Restaurant in beautiful Pérez Zeledón.
Hotel y Restaurante El Descanso
12.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Hotel y Restaurante El Descanso in San Gerardo de Rivas – where cuisine meets breathtaking nature.
Hotel de Montaña El Pelicano
12.9 km
Discover serenity and adventure at Hotel de Montaña El Pelicano—your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Batsù Gastropub
13.5 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at Batsù Gastropub, where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Truchas K&G
14.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Truchas K&G in Pérez Zeledón—a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Manantial de Montaña
15.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Manantial de Montaña in Cedral.
Restaurante Pura Vida
17.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Pura Vida in Rivas - where every dish celebrates local flavors and hospitality.
Tamalera y Soda Chirripo
17.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tamalera y Soda Chirripo in Rivas—where every bite tells a story.
Snack la Bonita
23.9 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Restaurante Chirripo
26.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Chirripo in San Isidro de El General - where flavor meets hospitality.
Kamut
26.6 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Urban Farm
27.1 km
Discover Urban Farm in San Isidro de El General for fresh Costa Rican cuisine served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurant Le Tapir
35.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurant Le Tapir in San Gerardo de Dota.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Casa de Windell
0.0 km
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Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
13.5 km
Discover the vibrant ecotourism gem of Mariposario Casa Alegria, where nature meets relaxation in a delightful blend of coffee, yoga, and wildlife.
Centro Comercial Montegeneral
25.8 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Centro Comercial Montegeneral, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of San Isidro de El General.
Tienda MIMA
41.3 km
Explore Tienda MIMA in Costa Rica – a vibrant clothing store showcasing local fashion and unique designs that capture the spirit of Costa Rican creativity.
San calixto
41.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica at San Calixto in Paraíso, a must-visit store for unique crafts and local goods.
El pepe
41.3 km
Discover El Pepe, a cozy book store in Paraíso where literature and local culture intertwine, perfect for book lovers and travelers alike.
AUTOMERCADO VISTAS EL CHIRRIPO CF
41.3 km
Explore the vibrant flavors and local culture at Automercado Vistas El Chirripo, your go-to supermarket in La Bonita, Costa Rica.
Boutique del Pastel
41.3 km
Discover a slice of paradise at Boutique del Pastel, where exceptional pastries and freshly brewed coffee await in the heart of Paraíso, Costa Rica.
Melen Store CR
43.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican fashion at Melen Store CR in Pejibaye, where unique dresses await every traveler.
Peji orgánico
43.1 km
Discover Peji Orgánico in Pejibaye, where fresh, locally sourced organic food meets sustainable practices, offering a unique culinary experience.
ArteCoVa
43.4 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship at ArteCoVa in Pejibaye—your gateway to unique, handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Costa Rica.
Costa Verde Surf shop
44.6 km
Experience the ultimate surfing adventure at Costa Verde Surf Shop in Uvita, where expert advice meets high-quality gear in a vibrant coastal setting.
Tico Roots Souvenier
48.2 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenir for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique gifts, capturing the essence of your travels in Dominical.
Souvenirs Raíces
48.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican treasures at Souvenirs Raíces, a boutique filled with unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry.
Tico Roots Souvenirs, Supporting Local and National Artist
48.3 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenirs in Dominical for authentic Costa Rican gifts crafted by local artists, showcasing the beauty of national artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crestones Base Camp
3.6 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica from Crestones Base Camp, where adventure meets serenity amidst nature's splendor.
Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
12.5 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café, where local ingredients and sustainability meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Rio Chirripo
13.0 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Bar la Terraza
19.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pérez Zeledón at Bar la Terraza, where karaoke and fun blend beautifully in an inviting atmosphere.
Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
21.2 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at La Perla, San Isidro's beloved grill and bar, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Restaurante Doña Marlen
35.4 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Doña Marlen, a culinary gem in the scenic San Gerardo de Dota, renowned for its local dishes and warm hospitality.
Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
35.9 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
41.2 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Playa Brunella
41.3 km
Explore Playa Brunella, a stunning beach in Cartago Province, known for its beautiful scenery and delicious grilled specialties that delight every visitor.
Pochos Bar
42.9 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pochos Bar in La Suiza, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet a lively social scene.
Bar Rest Jabalí
43.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar Rest Jabalí, a vibrant grill and bar in Pejibaye perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Whale Tail Brewery CR
43.9 km
Experience the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Whale Tail Brewery CR, a hidden gem in Uvita, Puntarenas Province.
Bar y restaurante el troje
45.0 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and lively atmosphere at Bar y Restaurante El Troje in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras
45.4 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican culture at Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras, where local flavors meet vibrant entertainment in Turrialba.
Hacienda Sitio de Mata.
46.6 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Hacienda Sitio de Mata, a premier wedding venue and tourist attraction in the heart of Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rancho el atardecer
41.3 km
Dive into the energetic nightlife of Tausito at Rancho el Atardecer, where music and dance create unforgettable moments in Cartago Province.
Rancho el Burro
41.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Costa Rica at Rancho el Burro, a premier night club in Paraíso, Cartago Province, where music and dance come alive.
cirporacion cefa
41.3 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Paraíso at Cirporacion Cefa, where rhythm, energy, and unforgettable memories await you.
Turri Baila
51.5 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through the art of ballroom dance at Turri Baila in Turrialba.
El Paraíso de Dios
53.1 km
Discover peace and natural beauty at El Paraíso de Dios, a serene lounge in Turrialba, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and wildlife observation.
Bar El Piñal
56.8 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Bar El Piñal in Turrialba, where great music and a vibrant atmosphere await every night.
La Disco Club
58.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Palmar Norte at La Disco Club – where music, dancing, and local culture come alive.
Rincón de la Nacha
59.2 km
Unleash your spirit at Rincón de la Nacha, the vibrant night club in Palmar Sur, where music, dance, and unforgettable moments await.
La chosita
70.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at La Chosita, a lively bar in Puerto Limón offering local flavors and a welcoming atmosphere.
Barrio ZUKO
71.4 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Quepos at Barrio ZUKO, where lively music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Paradise Night Club
72.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Paradise Night Club in Limón, where unforgettable parties and electric atmospheres await every night.
Genesys Striptease Club VIP
72.6 km
Explore the electrifying atmosphere and captivating performances at Genesys Striptease Club VIP, the premier nightlife destination in Patarra.
Éxtasis Discoclub
73.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Éxtasis Discoclub in Quepos, where music, dance, and unforgettable memories await you in Costa Rica.
Salón Comunal de Quepos, DINADECO
73.9 km
Experience the heart of Quepos at Salón Comunal, a vibrant lounge showcasing Costa Rican culture and community spirit.
Drunken Monkey
73.9 km
Discover the lively Drunken Monkey bar in Quepos, where delicious cocktails, friendly vibes, and unforgettable nights await you in Costa Rica.
