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.
Parque Nacional Los Quetzales
9.2 km
Discover Costa Rica's hidden gem: Hike through cloud forests, spot the resplendent quetzal, and immerse yourself in nature's tranquility.
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.
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
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.
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
Explore Tapantí National Park: a Costa Rican paradise of cloud forests, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking natural beauty in the Talamanca Range.
Termales Hacienda Orosi
24.6 km
Experience the rejuvenating thermal baths and stunning natural beauty at Termales Hacienda Orosi in Cartago, Costa Rica.
Catarata Eco Chontales
25.0 km
Explore the breathtaking Catarata Eco Chontales, a stunning waterfall in Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush nature and vibrant wildlife.
Wildlife Refuge La Marta
25.2 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.
Parque Nacional Chirripó
28.6 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Parque Nacional Chirripó, Costa Rica's highest national park, perfect for adventurers and nature lovers.
Dreamer House
30.0 km
Discover intricate wood carvings at Dreamer House in Cachí, Costa Rica, a celebration of local artistry and coffee culture.
Cerro Chirripó
30.1 km
Explore the breathtaking heights of Cerro Chirripó, Costa Rica's tallest peak, where Pacific meets Caribbean in stunning vistas.
El camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9
30.1 km
Explore El Camino de Costa Rica Etapa 9, a stunning trail showcasing the natural beauty and rich culture in Cartago Province, perfect for all nature lovers.
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.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Rancho el atardecer
20.3 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
20.3 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
20.3 km
Dive into the vibrant nightlife of Paraíso at Cirporacion Cefa, where rhythm, energy, and unforgettable memories await you.
Turri Baila
38.3 km
Experience the vibrant culture of Costa Rica through the art of ballroom dance at Turri Baila in Turrialba.
El Paraíso de Dios
39.9 km
Discover peace and natural beauty at El Paraíso de Dios, a serene lounge in Turrialba, Costa Rica, perfect for relaxation and wildlife observation.
Barrio ZUKO
44.5 km
Experience the energetic nightlife of Quepos at Barrio ZUKO, where lively music and vibrant atmosphere create unforgettable moments.
Genesys Striptease Club VIP
45.1 km
Explore the electrifying atmosphere and captivating performances at Genesys Striptease Club VIP, the premier nightlife destination in Patarra.
Bar El Piñal
45.7 km
Discover the energetic nightlife at Bar El Piñal in Turrialba, where great music and a vibrant atmosphere await every night.
Salón Comunal de Quepos, DINADECO
47.4 km
Experience the heart of Quepos at Salón Comunal, a vibrant lounge showcasing Costa Rican culture and community spirit.
Ericka Centro de Uñas
47.7 km
Experience tranquility and beauty at Ericka Centro de Uñas in Quepos, the ideal lounge for pampering during your Costa Rican getaway.
Republik Sport Bar
47.9 km
Discover the vibrant Republik Sport Bar in Quepos, a hotspot for sports fans and night owls, offering great drinks and lively entertainment.
malecon de quepos de noche
47.9 km
Discover the exhilarating nightlife at Malecon de Quepos, where vibrant music and a lively atmosphere create an unforgettable experience in Costa Rica.
D'Todos
48.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Quepos at D'Todos, where expertly crafted cocktails and a lively atmosphere await.
Drunken Monkey
48.1 km
Discover the lively Drunken Monkey bar in Quepos, where delicious cocktails, friendly vibes, and unforgettable nights await you in Costa Rica.
Ape Eclectic Social Bar
48.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Ape Eclectic Social Bar in Quepos, where creative cocktails and stunning views await every visitor.
