Blue skies as we hike through the heart of Costa Rica | Mark Watson
Blue skies as we hike through the heart of Costa Rica  | Mark Watson
A cute sloth enjoying a belly scratch in the Costa Rican rainforest
Taking the time to stop and appreciate mother nature
Green iguana
Flora and fauna in abundance along the Camino de Costa Rica
Dense jungle trails await you on the Camino de Costa Rica
Incredible waterfall scenery, Costa Rica  | Sophie Panton

Hike the Camino de Costa Rica

Hike the Camino de Costa Rica and experince its rich cultural heritage.

10 Days from

$3190 USD

Trip Code: CDC
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

High Season Supplement
$450 USD
Camino de Costa Rica - Single Supplement
$630 USD

Duration

  • 10 Days

Activities

  • 7 days hike

Accommodation

  • 2 nights hotel
  • 7 nights supported camps

Meals

  • 7 Dinners
  • 8 Lunches
  • 9 Breakfasts

Difficulty Grading  

4 / 10

Introductory to Moderate

Trip highlights

  • Seamless blend of adventure and cultural immersion.
  • Expertly guided hikes through diverse landscapes led in part by indigenous guides.
  • Encounters with local communities and wildlife along the journey.
  • Unique experiences such as cooking and dancing lessons.
  • Stunning coastal views and relaxation opportunities in Manuel Antonio National Park
  • Hassle-free transfers and accommodation arrangements provided throughout the trip.

Overview

Experience a perfect fusion of adventure and cultural immersion on this incredible journey. The Camino de Costa Rica (Way of Costa Rica) is a breathtaking 280-kilometer hiking trail that spans the length of Costa Rica, from Parismina to Quepos. We have handpicked the best sections for you to hike. Upon arrival in San Jose, you'll be warmly greeted by a representative who will escort you to your hotel. The adventure kicks off the following morning with a scenic three-hour transfer to the Caribbean coast, passing through the stunning Braulio Carrillo National Park. From there, embark on a scenic boat journey and a warm-up hike by the sea, culminating at the picturesque Finca Pacuarito Campsite. In the days that follow, you'll face challenging hikes through diverse landscapes, including ascents to Las Brisas and El Nido del Tigre. Guided by indigenous experts, you'll traverse ancient jungle trails and rural roads, encountering vibrant local communities and abundant wildlife along the way. Highlights include overnight stays at Tres Equis and Mollejones, where you'll engage in cultural experiences such as cooking and dancing lessons. As the journey continues to the Pacific side, you'll traverse lush coffee plantations and enjoy breathtaking views of the coast en route to Naranjillo and Esquipulas. The adventure concludes with a transfer to Manuel Antonio, where you can relax by the beach and explore the stunning National Park.

Itinerary

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Upon arrival at San Jose International Airport, a representative will be there to welcome you and take you to the hotel in San Jose city. Overnight: Hotel Sleep inn, or similar.

Meals: Nil

Let the Adventure Begin! Our day kicks off with a scenic 3-hour transfer to Costa Rica's Caribbean coast, passing through the vast Braulio Carrillo National Park, one of the country's largest protected primary forests. Upon reaching the Cano Blanco port, we'll hop aboard a boat to embark on a brief warm-up hike along the seaside. As the day draws to a close, we'll arrive at the Campsite of Finca Pacuarito, our tranquil resting place for the evening. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

Following breakfast, we'll begin our ascent towards the quaint community of Las Brisas. Our hike will traverse various trails and local roads, offering glimpses of the diverse landscape. The ascent from the Caribbean Low Lands to the mountains provides stunning vistas and opportunities for birdwatching. Our journey concludes at the Indigenous Community Tsiobata, where we'll immerse ourselves in the rich culture and surroundings. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today, the group will be accompanied by an indigenous guide who will lead us along an ancient trail still utilized by the Malekus tribe to navigate the jungle. These trails wind through the dense tropical forest, meandering up and down mountainsides and crossing numerous creeks along the way. Our trek concludes with a descent to the Pacuare River, where we'll cross it before reaching the El Nido del Tigre Campsite. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

As the morning dawns with the soothing symphony of the Pacuare River, accompanied by the melodies of birds and distant howler monkeys, the group will embark on their trek to Tres Equis. Our path will wind along trails and roads beside the river, offering splendid vistas along the way. Upon reaching Tres Equis, we'll settle into a local farm where cocoa, sugar cane, and coffee are cultivated, providing a delightful opportunity to immerse ourselves in the agricultural rhythms of the region. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

Today's hike will trace local 4x4 roads, offering a non-technical route and an opportunity to appreciate the surrounding wildlife and scenery. Upon reaching the town of Mollejones, we'll have the chance to interact with the locals, engaging in a short cooking and dancing lesson, fostering cultural exchange and enriching our journey. Overnight: Community camp Mollejones

Meals: B,L,D

Following an early transfer, you'll embark on your first hike on the Pacific side. The afternoon will be spent traversing rural roads, meandering through coffee plantations as you delve into the process, history, and significance of coffee production for the country. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

Following a brief transfer, your journey progresses with a captivating hike along historic plantation roads, leading you to the charming town of Naranjillo. En route, a delightful midpoint awaits: a picturesque waterfall beckons, offering a refreshing oasis for a swim and a leisurely lunch amidst the natural splendor. As you trek onwards, the landscape gradually unfolds, revealing tantalizing glimpses of the majestic Pacific coast and its breathtaking vistas. As night falls, you settle into camp, surrounded by the tranquility of nature, ready to rest and rejuvenate for the adventures that lie ahead. Overnight: camp

Meals: B,L,D

It's the final stretch towards the Pacific! Descend from the central mountain range for the last leg of your journey, culminating in the quaint community of Esquipulas. Here, amidst the serene surroundings, the group can seize the chance to visit a scenic waterfall nestled beside the Naranjo River. Following this refreshing stop, you'll be whisked away to Manuel Antonio, a renowned tourist destination boasting a spectacular beach and a captivating National Park. Overnight: Hotel Manuel Antonio, or similar.

Meals: B,L

Today you will have the morning to enjoy the beach, afternoon the group will transfer to Juan Santamaría Airport.

Meals: B

Map

Elevation

The map and elevation chart are for illustrative purposes only and meant to provide general guidelines.

Ready to start your adventure?

View dates to Book

What’s included?

Included

  • 9 breakfasts, 8 lunches and 7 dinners
  • Experienced guides
  • Airport transfers (days 1 and 10 only)
  • All included transportation noted in itinerary
  • Good quality hotel accommodation
  • Supported camp sites
  • Expert tour leaders and guides
  • All entrance fees, charges and government taxes for activities and locations noted in the itinerary.
  • 24 hour emergency support and group medical kit.

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Meals not indicated
  • Items of a personal nature such as phone calls, laundry, etc
  • Tips & gratuities
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

Responsible travel

Extra trip info

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