El Miro, Jaco Travel Guide

4.7 (1532)

Discover El Miro in Jaco: Where an abandoned mansion becomes a canvas of vibrant graffiti art with breathtaking ocean views.

El Miro is an abandoned construction project overlooking Jaco, Costa Rica, transformed into a vibrant open-air art gallery. Hikers are rewarded with panoramic views and unique graffiti art, making it a must-see destination for art lovers and nature enthusiasts alike.

A brief summary to El Miro

H9WJ+7RW, Jaco, Puntarenas Province, CR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring El Miro.

Wear sturdy shoes for the hike, as the trail can be steep and slippery in places.
Bring plenty of water, as there are no facilities available on-site.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the heat and catch a beautiful sunrise or sunset.
Bring cash for parking if you choose to park near the trailhead.

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Explore El Miro on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near El Miro, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From Jaco, head south towards the Delta Jacó gas station, located between Playa Jacó and Playa Hermosa on Route 34. The trailhead is across the road from the gas station. Look for signs indicating the entrance to El Miro. The hike is a moderately steep climb of under 1 kilometer, taking approximately 25-30 minutes to reach the ruins. There is no entrance fee to hike El Miro.
Taxi/Ride-Share

From anywhere in Jaco, a taxi or ride-share can take you to the trailhead of El Miro, located across from the Delta Jacó gas station on Route 34. A short taxi ride within Jaco should cost approximately $5-$10. From the trailhead, the hike to El Miro is about 25-30 minutes. Parking is available across the street from the gas station. There is no entrance fee to hike El Miro.

Discover more about El Miro

Perched on a mountain at the southern edge of Jaco, Costa Rica, El Miro is a unique destination where history, art, and nature converge. What was intended to be a luxurious mansion or hotel in the 1990s was never completed, and the skeletal remains have since been reclaimed by the jungle and transformed by artists. The story goes that a wealthy man, possibly of European descent, began building the property to take advantage of the unmatched views of the Pacific Ocean. However, he passed away before it could be finished, leaving the structure to be overtaken by time and the elements.Today, El Miro is a popular hiking spot, attracting locals, backpackers and tourists seeking panoramic views and a dose of urban art. The site features the remnants of a three-story building, including white pillars, grand staircases, and expansive balconies, now adorned with colorful graffiti and murals. The walls showcase a diverse collection of artwork, from Aztec-like designs to depictions of animals, plants, and even aliens.The hike to El Miro is a moderately challenging trek that takes about 25-30 minutes. The trail leads through lush jungle, offering glimpses of the coastline along the way. Several viewpoints provide opportunities to stop and admire the scenery. The combination of stunning views, intriguing ruins, and vibrant street art makes El Miro a memorable experience for anyone visiting Jaco.