Chirripo National Park

Chirripo National Park encompasses parts of three provinces: San Jose, Limon and Cartago. It was established in 1975 and named for its most prominent feature: Cerro Chirripo, which at 3,820 mts. is the highest mountain in Costa Rica.

Stunning views and a tour across moorland and glacial lakes are part of the experience when visiting the park. In Cerro Chirripo, each site is unique. The park can be categorized into five ecosystems: lowland tropical wet forest, premontane tropical wet forest, lower montane wet forest, montane wet forest and subalpine wet forest. Most of the park consists of both primary rain forests and primary cloud forests. Around 2,740 m (8,990 ft) it changes to a wet desert. Summiting the peak begins with a hike along a 16.5 km (10.3 miles) uphill trail from the town of San Gerardo de Rivas to the park ranger's refuge in the Los Crestones sector; that is followed by a 5 km (3.1 miles) walk to the peak.

To take part of this hike you must consider the weather, lodging, equipment and getting all the permits. The best time to visit Chirripo National Park is from January to April, when you have the best chance of good weather to take in the great views. Most people opt for an overnight stay at the Crestones Base Camp, located at 11,155 feet. The first day you will head up to the Crestones Base Camp where you will have a nice meal, a cold shower and sleep overnight, followed by a second day of summiting Cerro Chirripo and heading back down to San Gerardo de Rivas.

It will take you around 15 hours (over two days) to climb the Cerro Chirripo. Your visit to Chirripo National Park will not only delight your senses but also contribute to the development and welfare of neighboring communities to acquire the associated services such as baggage transport, accommodation, food and souvenir sales.