Cerro de la Muerte: Costa Rica's Mountain Majesty
Discover breathtaking views and unique ecosystems at Costa Rica's Cerro de la Muerte, the highest point on the Inter-American Highway.
Cerro de la Muerte, or 'Mountain of Death,' is the highest point on the Costa Rican section of the Inter-American Highway, reaching approximately 3,451 meters (11,322 feet). Despite its ominous name, it offers breathtaking panoramic views, unique high-altitude ecosystems, and diverse flora and fauna.
A brief summary to Cerro de la Muerte
- Paraíso, Cartago Province, CR
Local tips
- Pack layers of clothing, as the weather can change rapidly due to the high altitude.
- Arrive early in the morning for the best chance to spot the resplendent Quetzal.
- Hike early to avoid fog and sudden rain showers.
Getting There
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Driving
Cerro de la Muerte is accessible via the Pan-American Highway (Route 2). From San José, the drive takes approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. The road is well-marked but winding and steep in places, so drive cautiously. There are no tolls on this route. Parking is available near the summit.
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Public Transport
From San José, take a bus to San Isidro de El General. From there, take a taxi to Cerro de la Muerte. The bus ride takes approximately 4 hours, and the taxi ride from San Isidro to Cerro de la Muerte takes around 45 minutes. The bus fare from San José to San Isidro is approximately $10-$15. A taxi from San Isidro to Cerro de la Muerte will cost around $30-$40.
Discover more about Cerro de la Muerte
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cerro de la Muerte
0.0 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
5.6 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
5.6 km
Escape to Trogon Lodge in San Gerardo de Dota: A cloud forest paradise for birdwatching, nature walks, and tranquil relaxation.
Pizzería los Colibríes.
5.9 km
Savor delicious Italian pizza in the cloud forests of San Gerardo de Dota, where hummingbirds flutter and stunning views abound.
Miriam's Quetzals
5.9 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors and breathtaking birdwatching at Miriam's Quetzals in the heart of Copey's cloud forest.
Las Cataratas Lodge
6.0 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
6.6 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
6.8 km
Escape to a tranquil cloud forest paradise: cozy lodging, birdwatching, and nature's beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Hotel de Montaña Suria
7.3 km
Experience tranquility in San Gerardo de Dota at Hotel de Montaña Suria: mountain views, cozy rooms, and nature's doorstep.
Mirador Valle del General
12.8 km
Breathtaking valley views from a mountainside perch, offering tranquility and adventure near San Isidro de El General.
Albergue Mirador de Quetzales
13.9 km
Escape to a serene cloud forest lodge with stunning views, exceptional dining, and world-class birdwatching in Costa Rica.
Pesca de trucha Rio Blanco
17.4 km
Enjoy fresh trout and beautiful scenery at this popular Rio Blanco restaurant and recreational fishing spot in the heart of Costa Rica.
Truchas Selva Madre
18.8 km
Catch your own trout and savor the flavors of Costa Rica's highlands at Truchas Selva Madre, a unique fishing and dining experience.
Caminatas al Chirripo
20.0 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Chirripo National Park with expert-guided treks through Costa Rica's stunning landscapes and rich biodiversity.
Los santos
20.3 km
Discover Los Santos, Costa Rica: A serene escape into coffee culture and breathtaking highland scenery in Cartago Province.
Unmissable attractions to see
Savegre trails
6.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Savegre Trails in San Gerardo de Dota, a hiking paradise filled with diverse ecosystems and stunning mountain views.
Batsu Garden
6.7 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.
Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
9.2 km
Explore the breathtaking Parque Nacional Los Quetzales, a haven for wildlife enthusiasts and nature lovers in Costa Rica's lush cloud forests.
Los Quetzales - Entrada Principal National Park
9.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity at Los Quetzales National Park, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Costa Rica.
Quebradas Biological Center
15.8 km
Explore the lush biodiversity at Quebradas Biological Center, a nature lover's paradise in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning Pérez Zeledón.
Río Savegre
17.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and adventure of Río Savegre, a pristine river in Costa Rica's San José Province, perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers.
Savegre de Río Nuevo
18.9 km
Discover the enchanting hiking trails of Savegre de Río Nuevo, where lush landscapes and diverse wildlife await every nature lover.
Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino - Golden Rush
19.2 km
Explore the enchanting Copey Vinicola Tour de Vino in Costa Rica, where lush vineyards and exquisite wines await your discovery.
Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
19.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican craft beer and cuisine at Chirripóberg, a brewery, bar, and restaurant near San Isidro de El General.
Chirripo Oasis
19.7 km
Discover the tranquil beauty of Chirripo Oasis, a must-visit nature escape in Costa Rica's stunning landscapes, perfect for relaxation and adventure.
Jardines Secretos
19.9 km
Explore the vibrant flora and serene landscapes of Jardines Secretos, a tranquil oasis near Parque Nacional Chirripo, Rivas, Costa Rica.
Entrada al sendero Parque Nacional Chirripo
21.1 km
Explore the stunning trails of Chirripó National Park, the highest peak in Costa Rica, and immerse yourself in breathtaking nature.
Monte Sky
21.5 km
Discover the enchanting Monte Sky National Forest in Cartago, Costa Rica – a breathtaking haven for nature lovers and outdoor adventurers.
Cloudbridge Nature Reserve
21.6 km
Explore Cloudbridge Nature Reserve, a lush haven in Costa Rica, where diverse ecosystems and breathtaking landscapes await nature lovers and adventure seekers.
Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte
21.7 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Tapantí - Macizo de la Muerte in Costa Rica's Cartago Province.
Essential places to dine
Restaurant Le Tapir
5.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty at Restaurant Le Tapir in San Gerardo de Dota.
El Jilguero San Gerardo
6.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Jilguero San Gerardo in Copey District – where every meal is a celebration of local culture.
Soda Madre Selva
18.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda Madre Selva in Tres de Junio - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
La Terraza Criolla
18.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at La Terraza Criolla – where delicious grilled dishes meet breathtaking views.
Restaurante Pura Vida
19.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Pura Vida in Rivas - where every dish celebrates local flavors and hospitality.
Tamalera y Soda Chirripo
19.5 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Tamalera y Soda Chirripo in Rivas—where every bite tells a story.
Hotel de Montaña El Pelicano
19.9 km
Discover serenity and adventure at Hotel de Montaña El Pelicano—your gateway to Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Batsù Gastropub
20.1 km
Experience the best of Costa Rican cuisine at Batsù Gastropub, where fresh ingredients meet innovative flavors in a warm and inviting atmosphere.
Hotel y Restaurante El Descanso
20.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Hotel y Restaurante El Descanso in San Gerardo de Rivas – where cuisine meets breathtaking nature.
Robino's Foodies Restaurant - ClOSED FOR THE SEASON -
20.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Robino's Foodies Restaurant in beautiful Pérez Zeledón.
Truchero Los Cocolisos
20.5 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
20.6 km
Explore Talamanca Nature Reserve: A Biodiversity Haven with Scenic Trails and Eco-Friendly Dining in Costa Rica.
Snack la Bonita
20.8 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Mirador de Quetzales
21.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Mirador de Quetzales while soaking in stunning natural vistas.
Kamut
21.8 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
20.1 km
Discover the vibrant ecotourism gem of Mariposario Casa Alegria, where nature meets relaxation in a delightful blend of coffee, yoga, and wildlife.
Tienda MIMA
20.3 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
20.3 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
20.3 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
20.3 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
20.3 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.
Kabu Bread and Coffee
26.0 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican coffee and artisanal baked goods at Kabu Bread and Coffee in Santa María.
Ferretería Coopedota R.L.
26.0 km
Explore Ferretería Coopedota R.L. in Santa María, your go-to tool store and agrochemicals supplier in Costa Rica.
Centro Comercial Montegeneral
26.4 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.
Melen Store CR
26.7 km
Explore the vibrant world of Costa Rican fashion at Melen Store CR in Pejibaye, where unique dresses await every traveler.
Peji orgánico
27.1 km
Discover Peji Orgánico in Pejibaye, where fresh, locally sourced organic food meets sustainable practices, offering a unique culinary experience.
ArteCoVa
29.0 km
Explore the vibrant craftsmanship at ArteCoVa in Pejibaye—your gateway to unique, handcrafted treasures that capture the essence of Costa Rica.
Secret Store
29.4 km
Explore the Secret Store in Cachí, where local culture meets unique treasures in the heart of Cartago Province.
Casa de Windell
30.1 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.
SalRod
32.5 km
Explore SalRod in Jiménez for unique souvenirs and local crafts that capture the essence of Costa Rica's rich culture and artistry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Restaurante Doña Marlen
5.5 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
6.8 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
12.2 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
20.0 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
20.0 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Playa Brunella
20.3 km
Explore Playa Brunella, a stunning beach in Cartago Province, known for its beautiful scenery and delicious grilled specialties that delight every visitor.
Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
20.9 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.
Al Mercat Dota
21.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Al Mercat Dota, a must-visit restaurant in the scenic Copey District.
Bar Rest Jabalí
27.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at Bar Rest Jabalí, a vibrant grill and bar in Pejibaye perfect for food lovers and adventurers alike.
Crestones Base Camp
29.5 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Costa Rica from Crestones Base Camp, where adventure meets serenity amidst nature's splendor.
Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras
29.9 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican culture at Bar Restaurante & Cabinas Las Veraneras, where local flavors meet vibrant entertainment in Turrialba.
Sanaa Coast
30.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere and local flavors at Sanaa Coast, a hidden bar gem in Cartago Province, Costa Rica.
Restaurante Kasa Blanca
31.3 km
Discover the authentic flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Kasa Blanca, a culinary gem in San Marcos, perfect for tourists seeking a delightful dining experience.
Bar la Terraza
32.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pérez Zeledón at Bar la Terraza, where karaoke and fun blend beautifully in an inviting atmosphere.
Chiri's Bar
32.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican nightlife at Chiri's Bar in Paraíso, where friendly vibes and local flavors invite you to unwind.
