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

$3350 USD

Trip Code: CDC
View dates to BookEssential Information

Extra trip options & supplements

*Prices listed are per person

Single Supplement
$330 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

Carbon Footprint  

31kg of CO2-e PP per day

(277kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

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 the costal town of Quepos, next to Manuel Antonio National Park, where you can complete the coast to coast journey and touch the Pacific, then relax by the beach and stunning National Park.

Itinerary

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Bienvenidos Costa Rica. On arrival at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, you’ll be met by a local representative who will assist you with your transfer to your centrally located hotel. Depending on your arrival time, you may wish to explore the nearby parks, cafes or markets, or simply relax after your journey. Overnight: Sleep Inn Hotel, or similar

Meals: Nil

The adventure begins with a scenic 3-hour drive to Costa Rica’s Caribbean coast, passing through Braulio Carrillo National Park, one of the country’s largest and most pristine rainforest reserves. At Caño Blanco port, you’ll board a boat that winds through quiet waterways toward the trailhead near the sea. From here, enjoy a gentle warm-up hike along the coast to start your journey from the Caribbean sea, before transferring to your riverside campsite at Finca Pacuarito. Walking distance: approx. 5 km / 3.1 mi, 2 hours (+50 m / +164 ft) Overnight: Finca Pacuarito Campsite

Meals: B,L,D

After breakfast, begin your steady ascent toward the small rural community of Las Brisas. Today’s hike follows a mix of forest trails and quiet local roads, gradually climbing from the Caribbean lowlands into the foothills of the mountains. Along the way, enjoy expansive views and keep watch for local birdlife in the treetops. The day ends at the Indigenous Community of Tsiobata, where you'll settle into camp surrounded by nature. Walking distance: approx. 18 km / 11.2 mi, 6–7 hours (+800 m / +2,625 ft, -300 m / -985 ft) Overnight: Tsiobata Campsite

Meals: B,L,D

Today you’ll be joined by an indigenous guide who will lead you along a traditional trail still used by the Maleku people to traverse the jungle. The route winds deep into the tropical forest, climbing and descending steep sections and crossing multiple creeks. It’s a long and rewarding day on foot, surrounded by rich biodiversity. The final descent brings you to the banks of the Pacuare River. After crossing, you’ll arrive at tonight’s camp: El Nido del Tigre. Walking distance: approx. 13 km / 8.1 mi, 9–10 hours (+700 m / +2,297 ft, -500 m / -1,640 ft) Overnight: El Nido del Tigre Campsite

Meals: B,L,D

Wake to the peaceful sounds of the Pacuare River, with birdsong and the calls of distant howler monkeys echoing through the forest. Today’s journey follows scenic trails and rural roads that trace the river’s edge, offering expansive views along the way. Upon reaching Tres Equis, you’ll transfer to the nearby community of El Humo, located beside the Pejibaye River. Here, you have the chance to cool off with a refreshing swim. Walking distance: approx. 15 km / 9.3 mi, 7–8 hours (+600 m / +1,970 ft, -400 m / -1,312 ft) Overnight: Community campsite, El Humo

Meals: B,L,D

Today’s journey begins in the rural community of El Humo. The trail follows a mix of quiet paved roads and rural footpaths, winding through a lush landscape of tropical forest and small agricultural settlements. As the day progresses, the route becomes more demanding, with a steady climb alongside the boundary of Tapantí National Park – one of Costa Rica’s most biologically diverse regions. You’ll pass the Río Macho Hydroelectric Plant and enter highland terrain filled with cloud forest, waterfalls and coffee plantations. Panoramic views open up across the mountains and valleys of central Costa Rica. The day’s hike concludes in the colonial town of Orosi, nestled in a fertile valley surrounded by emerald green hills. Here, you’ll settle into a peaceful lodge just outside the town. Walking distance: approx. 18–22 km / 11.2–13.7 mi, 6–8 hours (+900 m / +2,953 ft) Overnight: Orokay Lodge Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L,D

After an early morning transfer, you’ll begin your first hike on the Pacific side of Costa Rica around Santa Maria de Dota. The afternoon is spent walking along quiet rural roads that weave through coffee-growing regions. Along the way, you’ll learn about the history, cultural significance, and economic importance of coffee production in Costa Rica. The day ends in the small mountain community of Mata de Caña, the last settlement on the central range before you begin your descent toward the Pacific coast. Walking distance: approx. 16 km / 9.9 mi, 5–7 hours (+500 m / 1,640 ft ascent) Overnight: Community campsite, Mata de Caña

Meals: B,L,D

After a short vehicle transfer, the day’s trek resumes along old plantation roads that lead to the town of Naranjillo. Midway through the hike, you’ll stop at a scenic waterfall, the perfect spot for a refreshing swim and a relaxed lunch in nature. As the trail continues, the landscape gradually opens up to reveal your first glimpses of the Pacific coast and the lush terrain that surrounds it. Walking distance: approx. 13 km / 8.1 mi, 5–7 hours (+100 m / +328 ft, -800 m / -2,625 ft) Overnight: Community campsite, Naranjillo

Meals: B,L,D

It’s the final push to the Pacific! Today’s descent takes you from the central highlands down to the small rural community of Esquipulas. After completing the hike, you’ll visit a nearby waterfall on the Naranjo River, a refreshing reward before transitioning from the mountains to the coast. In the afternoon, transfer to Quepos, one of Costa Rica’s most iconic beach towns, known for its white sand beaches, vibrant wildlife, and if time allows a visit to the nearby spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park. Walking distance: approx. 13 km / 8.1 mi, 5–6 hours (+200 m / 656 ft ascent, -750 m / 2,460 ft descent) Overnight: Kamuk Hotel, or similar

Meals: B,L

Enjoy a relaxed morning in Quepos, a chance to walk along the beach, swim in the warm Pacific waters, or simply soak in the coastal atmosphere, and if time allows, a visit to the spectacular Manuel Antonio National Park. In the afternoon, you’ll transfer by vehicle back to San José or Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) for your onward flight. Trip concludes in San Jose, If you plan to continue your journey in Costa Rica, please enquire about additional trips and accommodation options our team can assist. Transfer duration: approx. 3.5–4.5 hours (depending on traffic)

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?

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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
  • Sleeping bag and pad
  • 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
  • Visa
  • Travel Insurance

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