Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
don't have the time or energy to summit Chirripó have lovely, less-difficult hikes in the
Cloudbridge Nature Reserve.
The road to San Gerardo de Rivas winds its way 22km up the valley of the Río Chirripó.
The road is paved for the first 10km or so until the town of Rivas (note that this town is
different from San Gerardo de Rivas). After Rivas, it gets bumpy, narrow and steep. The
'center' of San Gerardo de Rivas consists of the soccer field and the
pulpería
(corner gro-
cery store) opposite. Otherwise, there's not much here - just the family farms and
cabinas
strung along the road and the river.
Sights & Activities
Cloudbridge Nature Reserve
NATURE RESERVE
( in USA 917-494-5408;
www.cloudbridge.org
;
admission by donation; sunrise-sunset)
About 2km past the trailhead to Cerro Chirripó you will find the entrance to the mystical,
magical Cloudbridge Nature Reserve. Covering 182 hectares on the side of Cerro Chirripó,
this private reserve is an ongoing reforestation and preservation project spearheaded by
New Yorkers Ian and Genevieve Giddy. A network of trails traverses the property, which
is easy to explore independently. Even if you don't get far past the entrance, you'll find two
waterfalls, including the magnificent Catarata Pacifica. Volunteer reforestation and conser-
vation opportunities are listed on the reserve's website.
Cocolisos Truchero
FISHING
( 2742-5023; 8am-6pm Sat & Sun, & by appointment; )
Down the hill 500m from the middle of town is this lovely little trout farm, operated by the
Marin family. If you're hanging out the day before or after a trip into the park, a perfect af-
ternoon can be made out of sitting by the trout pools and taking in the celebrated orchid
collection. Naturally, the fish is the best part; matronly Garita puts together a homemade
feast of trout and home-cooked sides for US$7.
Thermal Hot Springs
HEALTH & FITNESS
(Aguas Termales; 2742-5210; Herradura; admission US$6; 7am-5:30pm)
About 2km north of San Gerardo above the ranger station the road forks; take the left fork
and walk for about 1km on a paved road for these hot springs. Turn right and take the rick-
