Chirripó National Park: Conquer Costa Rica's Highest Peak
Hike to Costa Rica's highest point! Explore diverse ecosystems and witness breathtaking panoramic views from Cerro Chirripó's summit.
Ascend to the summit of Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica's highest point, within the diverse ecosystems of Chirripó National Park. This challenging yet rewarding trek offers stunning panoramic views and a unique high-altitude experience.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Chirripó
- GG74+95C, Pérez Zeledón, San José Province, CR
- +506905-244-7747
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-4 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-4 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-4 pm
- Thursday 8 am-4 pm
- Friday 8 am-4 pm
- Saturday 8 am-4 pm
- Sunday 8 am-4 pm
Local tips
- Book permits and lodging at Crestones Base Camp well in advance, especially for travel during peak season.
- Acclimatize in San Gerardo de Rivas for at least a day before your hike to adjust to the altitude.
- Pack layers of clothing, as temperatures can vary significantly throughout the day, and be prepared for rain.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, or arrange for meals at Crestones Base Camp.
- Consider hiring a local guide or porter to enhance your experience and support the local community.
Getting There
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Public Transport
To reach Chirripó National Park via public transport, take a bus from San José to San Isidro de El General (Pérez Zeledón). Buses depart from Terminal Coca Cola in San José every hour from 5:00 am to 5:00 pm, with a journey time of approximately 3 hours. From the bus terminal in San Isidro, take the local bus to San Gerardo de Rivas. These buses typically depart at 5:00 am, 11:00 am, 2:00 pm and 4:30 pm. The bus will drop you off near the SINAC park office in San Gerardo. Bus fare from San José to San Isidro is approximately ₡4,000-6,000. The bus from San Isidro to San Gerardo de Rivas costs around ₡1,500.
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Taxi
From San Isidro de El General, you can hire a taxi or a shuttle to San Gerardo de Rivas. A taxi ride will take approximately 30 minutes and cost between $20 and $30. Shuttles may offer a more economical option for groups. Be sure to negotiate the fare before starting your journey.
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Walking
From the center of San Gerardo de Rivas, the trailhead to Chirripó National Park is located approximately 2 kilometers (1.2 miles) away. The walk is relatively easy and takes around 30 minutes. Follow the road south from San Gerardo; you'll see signs for the park entrance.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Chirripó
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Retreat Center
12.1 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
21.8 km
Experience Costa Rica's beauty at Hacienda AltaGracia: luxury casitas, wellness, adventure, and authentic culture in the Talamanca Mountains.
Kinkara Luxury Retreat
22.0 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
23.4 km
Breathtaking valley views from a mountainside perch, offering tranquility and adventure near San Isidro de El General.
Cámara de Comercio Pérez Zeledón
27.6 km
Your gateway to exploring Pérez Zeledón: Discover local attractions, culture, and essential visitor information at our Chamber of Commerce.
Cerro de la Muerte
28.6 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
34.2 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
34.3 km
Escape to Trogon Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: A cloud forest paradise for birdwatching, nature walks, and tranquil relaxation.
Miriam's Quetzals
34.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors and breathtaking birdwatching at Miriam's Quetzals in the heart of Copey's cloud forest.
Pizzería los Colibríes.
34.4 km
Savor delicious Italian pizza in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, where hummingbirds flutter and stunning views abound.
Las Cataratas Lodge
34.5 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest retreat in San Gerardo de Dota, Costa Rica, with stunning waterfalls and exceptional birdwatching opportunities.
Savegre Hotel Natural Reserve & Spa
34.6 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
34.7 km
Escape to a tranquil cloud forest paradise: cozy lodging, birdwatching, and nature's beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel de Montaña Suria
35.1 km
Experience tranquility in San Gerardo de Dota at Hotel de Montaña Suria: mountain views, cozy rooms, and nature's doorstep.
Rancho Naturalista
36.2 km
Discover Costa Rica's avian wonders at Rancho Naturalista, a premier birding lodge nestled in the Tuis River valley near Turrialba.
Unmissable attractions to see
Cerro Chirripó
3.3 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica's tallest peak, where Pacific meets Caribbean in stunning vistas.
Laguna Ditkevi
5.2 km
Discover the serene beauty of Laguna Ditkevi in Talamanca, Costa Rica – a hidden paradise for nature lovers and tranquility seekers.
KM6: Sendero El Rualdo
8.9 km
Experience the natural beauty of KM6: Sendero El Rualdo, a breathtaking hiking area in Rivas, Costa Rica, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Cloudbridge Nature Reserve
10.2 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
11.0 km
Explore the stunning trails of Chirripó National Park, the highest peak in Costa Rica, and immerse yourself in breathtaking nature.
Jardines Secretos
12.8 km
Explore the vibrant flora and serene landscapes of Jardines Secretos, a tranquil oasis near Parque Nacional Chirripo, Rivas, Costa Rica.
La chiripa
14.1 km
Explore the beauty and culture of La Chiripa, a captivating tourist attraction in San Jerónimo De, perfect for an authentic travel experience.
Chirripo Oasis
15.6 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Chirripo Oasis, a must-visit nature escape in Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Cerro Ena
17.7 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.
Agro San Miguel Adventures
19.3 km
Discover Costa Rica's rural charm with hiking, camping, and nature at Agro San Miguel Adventures near Zapotal.
Quebradas Biological Center
23.0 km
Explore the lush biodiversity at Quebradas Biological Center, a nature lover's paradise in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Pérez Zeledón.
Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
27.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican craft beer and cuisine at Chirripóberg, a brewery, bar, and restaurant near San Isidro de El General.
Topolandia Costa Rica
29.1 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and vibrant nature at Topolandia Costa Rica, a premier destination for adventure and tranquility.
Batsu Garden
34.8 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.
Wildlife Refuge La Marta
37.2 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
11.7 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
11.8 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 -
12.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Robino's Foodies Restaurant in beautiful Pérez Zeledón.
Hotel y Restaurante El Descanso
12.7 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
13.4 km
Discover serenity and adventure at Hotel de Montaña El Pelicano—your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Batsù Gastropub
14.0 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
17.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Truchas K&G in Pérez Zeledón—a culinary gem surrounded by stunning landscapes.
Restaurante Pura Vida
18.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Pura Vida in Rivas - where every dish celebrates local flavors and hospitality.
Tamalera y Soda Chirripo
18.2 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tamalera y Soda Chirripo in Rivas—where every bite tells a story.
Manantial de Montaña
18.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors amidst stunning mountain views at Manantial de Montaña in Cedral.
Snack la Bonita
24.9 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Kamut
27.7 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Restaurante Chirripo
27.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Chirripo in San Isidro de El General - where flavor meets hospitality.
Urban Farm
28.3 km
Discover Urban Farm in San Isidro de El General for fresh Costa Rican cuisine served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Rancho Naturista La Cueva
32.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Rancho Naturista La Cueva, where vibrant flavors meet stunning natural beauty in Turrialba.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Casa de Windell
3.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Casa de Windell, a premier butcher shop in Limón offering high-quality meats and local culinary insights.
Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
14.1 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
27.4 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
38.6 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
38.6 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
38.6 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
38.6 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
38.6 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
40.1 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican fashion at Melen Store CR in Pejibaye, where unique dresses await every traveler.
Peji orgánico
40.1 km
Discover Peji Orgánico in Pejibaye, where fresh, locally sourced organic food meets sustainable practices, offering a unique culinary experience.
ArteCoVa
40.3 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
46.8 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.
SalRod
46.9 km
Explore SalRod in Jiménez for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Costa Rica's rich culture and artistry.
Palí
48.0 km
Discover the local flavors and vibrant culture at Palí, the go-to supermarket in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Supercompro 1
48.1 km
Discover the convenience and variety at Supercompro 1, the premier supermarket in Turrialba, Costa Rica, catering to all your shopping needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Crestones Base Camp
6.4 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 ️
12.8 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
13.4 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Bar la Terraza
21.7 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
22.2 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
34.0 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
34.7 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Playa Brunella
38.6 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
39.7 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Pochos Bar in La Suiza, where authentic Costa Rican flavors meet a lively social scene.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
40.1 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Bar Rest Jabalí
40.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar Rest Jabalí, a vibrant grill and bar in Pejibaye perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Bar y restaurante el troje
41.8 km
Experience the vibrant local flavors and lively atmosphere at Bar y Restaurante El Troje in Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras
42.3 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.
43.4 km
Experience the enchanting beauty of Hacienda Sitio de Mata, a premier wedding venue and tourist attraction in the heart of Turrialba, Costa Rica.
Villa Florencia Hotel
43.9 km
Experience comfort and tranquility at Villa Florencia Hotel, your serene escape in Turrialba, Costa Rica, surrounded by nature and local attractions.
