Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
ies will enable you to combine several shorter day hikes into a lengthier expedition.
Tourist-information centers at park entrances are great resources for planning your inten-
ded route.
If you're properly equipped with camping essentials, the country's longer and more ar-
duous multiday treks are at your disposal. Costa Rica's top challenges are scaling Cerro
Chirripó, traversing Corcovado and penetrating deep into the heart of La Amistad. While
Chirripó can be undertaken independently, local guides are required for much of La
Amistad and for all of Corcovado.
How to Make it Happen
If you're planning your trip around long-distance trekking, it's best to visit during the dry
season (December to April). Outside this window, rivers become impassable and trails are
prone to flooding. In the highlands, journeys become more taxing in the rain, and the bare
landscape offers little protection.
Costa Rica is hot and humid: hiking in these tropical conditions, harassed by mosqui-
toes, can really take it out of you. Remember to wear light clothing that will dry quickly.
Overheating and dehydration are the main sources of misery on the trails, so be sure to
bring plenty of water and take rest stops. Make sure you have sturdy, comfortable footwear
and a lightweight rain jacket.
Unfortunately, readers occasionally write in with horror stories of getting robbed while
on some of the more remote hiking trails. Although this happens rarely, it is always advis-
able to hike in a group for added safety. Hiring a local guide is another excellent way to
enhance your experience, avoid getting lost and learn an enormous amount about the flora
and fauna around you.
Some of the local park offices have maps, but this is the exception rather than the rule.
If you are planning to do independent hiking on long-distance trails, be sure to purchase
your maps in San José in advance.
A number of companies offer trekking tours in Costa Rica:
Osa Wild
Offers a huge variety of hikes in the Osa in partnership with a sustainability or-
ganization.
Costa Rica Trekking Adventures
Offers multiday treks in Chirripó, Corcovado and Tapanti.
Osa Aventura
(
2735-5670;
www.osaaventura.com
)
Specializes in treks through Corcovado.
