Costa Rica is a Central American paradise known for its incredible biodiversity, pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and active volcanoes. This eco-tourism destination offers world-class wildlife viewing, adventure activities, and a laid-back 'pura vida' lifestyle that welcomes travelers from around the globe.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Arenal Volcano Sendero Coladas Trail
The most popular trail inside Arenal Volcano National Park follows old lava flows from the 1968 eruption through secondary rainforest. Views of the near-perfect cone volcano emerge through tree breaks.
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2
Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve Sendero Nuboso
The signature trail through Monteverde's cloud forest winds through epiphyte-draped trees, misty ravines, and rare orchid habitats. Wildlife including resplendent quetzals, three-wattled bellbirds, and glass frogs inhabit this magical ecosystem.
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3
Corcovado National Park Los Patos Trail
The most biodiverse hike in Costa Rica cuts through pristine primary rainforest in what National Geographic called 'the most biologically intense place on Earth.' Tapirs, jaguars, four species of monkeys, and scarlet macaws are possible sightings.
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4
Cerro Chirripó Summit Trail
Ascending Central America's highest peak, this demanding trail passes through cloud forest, páramo (highland grassland), and alpine terrain. Summit views on clear days extend to both the Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea.
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5
La Fortuna Waterfall Trail
A short but steep descent via concrete steps leads to the base of the spectacular 70-meter La Fortuna Waterfall. The pristine plunge pool offers refreshing swimming surrounded by lush tropical vegetation with a magnificent wall of water.
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6
Río Celeste Trail
This stunning trail follows the impossibly blue Río Celeste through rainforest to a surreal electric-blue waterfall. The bright turquoise color results from volcanic minerals mixing in the water—one of Costa Rica's most photogenic natural wonders.
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7
Manuel Antonio National Park Trails
Well-maintained coastal trails connect four beautiful beaches while passing through secondary tropical rainforest. Wildlife encounters are nearly guaranteed including white-faced monkeys, three-toed sloths, iguanas, and over 350 bird species.
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8
Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge Trails
Flat wetland trails and boat tours through Costa Rica's largest wetland area near the Nicaraguan border. This remote reserve hosts extraordinary bird populations including jabiru storks, roseate spoonbills, and American wood ibis.
Trail difficulty levels
Pick a route that matches your fitness and experience.
Mostly flat, well-marked paths. Suitable for families and casual walkers.
Some elevation gain, longer distances. Requires basic fitness.
Significant climbs and exposure. Requires good fitness and route-finding.
Technical terrain, scrambling, or alpine conditions. Experience essential.
When to hike
Seasonal conditions in Costa Rica.
- Spring
- March-May marks the transition from dry to rainy season. Early March has excellent dry-season conditions. April onwards brings afternoon showers. Good wildlife activity as animals emerge.
- Summer
- June-August is deep rainy season on Pacific coast. Trails can be muddy, rivers high, and leeches active. Corcovado and cloud forests best avoided June-July. Caribbean coast drier in September-October.
- Fall
- September-November is rainiest on most coasts. November begins drying. October-November is Caribbean coast's peak tourist season when Pacific trails are wet.
- Winter
- December-April is the dry season and prime hiking time throughout Costa Rica. Clear skies, manageable trails, and best visibility for volcano views. December-January see most tourist activity.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Hazard: Riptides on Pacific beaches — never swim in rivers or ocean alone
Hazard: Fer-de-lance and bushmaster snakes on forest trails — wear closed shoes, watch where you step
Hazard: Africanized bees near trails — do not disturb hives, move away calmly if swarmed
Hazard: River crossings can flood rapidly in rainy season — never cross swollen rivers
Hazard: Sun and heat exhaustion — carry minimum 2 liters water, apply sunscreen
Hazard: Hypothermia risk at Chirripó summit elevations — bring warm layers even in dry season
Hazard: Crocodiles in rivers near Pacific beaches, especially Tárcoles River area
Hazard: Trail conditions deteriorate significantly in rainy season May-November