South Pacific
Mount Chirripó
The highest peak in Costa Rica, at 3,820 m.
The roof of Costa Rica
Mount Chirripó, at 3,820 meters, is the highest mountain in the country. Climbing it is one of Costa Rica's great adventures: the trail crosses cloud forests, oak forests and the páramo, a high-mountain landscape unique in the country, with lakes of glacial origin. On clear days you can see both the Pacific and the Caribbean from the top.
What the climb is like
- The main trail starts in San Gerardo de Rivas. It is about 14 kilometers, mostly uphill, to the Base Crestones lodge, where you spend the night.
- From the lodge it is about 5 more kilometers to the summit. The classic plan is to leave before dawn to watch the sunrise at the top.
- Most people do it in two or three days. It requires good fitness, but no technical mountaineering experience.
Before you go (important)
- Park entry and the night at the lodge must be booked in advance on the SINAC platform, and spots are limited. In high season and on holidays they sell out quickly.
- The park closes temporarily fairly often for maintenance or bad weather (for example, it was closed in October 2026). Check its status before you travel.
- You must register at the park office in San Gerardo the day before the climb.
Tips
- It is very cold at the top: at night temperatures can drop below freezing. Bring thermal layers, gloves, a hat and a rain jacket.
- The lower section is hot: start early and carry enough water.
- On the way down, the hot springs around Herradura are the best reward.
Getting there
San Gerardo de Rivas is about 20 kilometers from San Isidro de El General, about three hours from San José. It pairs very well with Uvita and the Costa Ballena, just over an hour away.
Where to stay in Mount Chirripó
Hostal Cerro Chirripó ★★
Budget · Shared pool, Wi-Fi
from $35 per night
Hotel Cerro Chirripó Boutique ★★★★
Comfort · Pool, Wi-Fi, Restaurant
from $80 per night
Cerro Chirripó Lodge & Spa ★★★★★
Premium · Spa, Pool, Restaurant, Transfers
from $160 per night
Things to do in Mount Chirripó
- Guided climb (2 days, lodge included) from $180 pp
- Herradura hot springs from $15 pp
Traveler reviews
There are no reviews of this destination yet.
Plan your trip
from $35 per night
Choose hotel, nights and activities; prices follow the season.
Best time to visit
January to April, the driest time to climb