Puntarenas is Costa Rica's largest province, stretching along most of the country's Pacific coastline from the Gulf of Nicoya south to the Panama border. It serves as the gateway to surf towns, national parks such as Manuel Antonio and Corcovado, and island reserves reached by ferry from Puntarenas city.
Top trails
Routes worth lacing up your boots for.
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1
Cathedral Point Trail (Punta Catedral)
The signature trail in Manuel Antonio National Park, looping around the Cathedral Point peninsula between two beautiful beaches. Offers sweeping Pacific views from the point and exceptional wildlife viewing — sloths, monkeys, and coatis are almost guaranteed.
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2
Nauyaca Waterfalls Trail
An 18 km round-trip hike through cattle farms and rainforest to one of Costa Rica's most spectacular waterfalls — the 45-metre Nauyaca Falls with its deep swimming pool. The trail passes through stunning scenery though the length is demanding.
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3
Sendero Chomogo (Monteverde Reserve)
The highest trail in the Monteverde Reserve, ascending through cloud forest to the continental divide at 1680 metres. On clear days, views extend to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Outstanding birdwatching.
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4
La Leona Trail — Corcovado Entry
The most popular entry into Corcovado, starting at La Leona ranger station (accessed from Carate beach) and hiking along the coast and through primary rainforest to Sirena station. The most wildlife-rich day hike in the country.
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5
Sendero Bosque Nuboso (Monteverde)
The classic cloud forest loop trail — a magical walk through misty primary cloud forest festooned with bromeliads, orchids, and moss. The constant mist and mysterious atmosphere of the cloud forest makes this a memorable experience.
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6
Carara National Park River Trail
A peaceful riverside trail through transitional tropical forest following a lagoon trail to the Río Tárcoles. Outstanding birdwatching — Carara has the highest bird density of any park in Costa Rica. Scarlet macaws, toucans, and herons are commonly seen.
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7
Cabo Blanco Reserve Trail
A challenging and rewarding hike through Costa Rica's oldest protected area to pristine wild beaches and rocky headlands. The dry tropical forest is home to howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, and nesting seabird colonies. Very remote — no facilities.
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8
Mistico Hanging Bridges Loop
A well-maintained loop through secondary cloud forest on 15 suspension bridges spanning canyons and ravines at canopy level. A safe and accessible way to experience Monteverde from above. Popular with families and those not up for strenuous hikes.
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9
Playa Bejuco Coastal Walk
A long coastal walk on an almost completely deserted beach. Scarlet macaws nest in nearby palms, sea turtles nest at night, and the wild Pacific scenery is extraordinary. Complete solitude is virtually guaranteed.
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10
San Pedrillo Trail — Corcovado NP
Entry from the San Pedrillo ranger station via boat from Drake Bay. A beautiful coastal and interior rainforest trail with excellent wildlife viewing opportunities. Tapirs, anteaters, and scarlet macaws are commonly seen.
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.
Local hazards
What to watch out for on the trail.
Sudden weather changes — always carry rain gear and warm layers.
Wildlife encounters — make noise on the trail and store food properly.
Trail conditions can deteriorate after rain — check recent reports before setting out.