Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ety suspension bridge over the river. A switchback trail will lead you another 1km to a
house with a
soda,
which is the entrance to the springs.
Sleeping & Eating
Most options are situated along the narrow road parallel to the river. The majority rent out
equipment (sleeping bags, air mattresses, cooking stoves etc), though supplies are limited
and quality varies. The services on hand reflect the fact that many Chirripó-bound travel-
ers are young, ready to rough it and on a shoestring budget. Many hotels and
cabinas
al-
low camping for a small fee. Note that many accommodations close when Chirripó closes,
during the last half of May and all of October.
Casa Mariposa
HOSTEL
( 2742-5037;
www.hotelcasamariposa.net
;
dm US$15, d US$36-60; )
Just a short walk from the entrance of the park, this adorable lodge is built into the side of
the mountain and has a warm, glowing atmosphere. Traveler-oriented details - warm
clothes to borrow for the hike, laundry service, assistance with booking the Chirripó lodge
- make it ideal.
In the evening, guests gather around the wood stove in the communal living room to
read, plan hikes, and welcome weary hikers returning from the summit. There's a tidy kit-
chen, a lookout with hammocks on the roof and a stone soaking tub. There's only space for
15 guests, so advance booking is recommended.
Restaurante & Hotel de Montaña El Descanso
CABINA, HOTEL
( 2742-5061;
www.hoteleldescansocr.com
;
campsites per person US$5, d per person with/without
bathroom US$48/24; )
This quaint and quiet homestead, run by the accommodating Elizondo family, is an excel-
lent budget choice. The spare, cell-like single rooms on the ground floor are a fine option,
although brighter, more spacious ones on the 2nd floor come with bathroom and balcony
for a few dollars more. All rates include transportation to the park entrance for trekkers.
The onsite restaurant dishes out simple, good meals, and the family organizes tours and
a guiding service.
