Visiting Chirripó National Park through “Paso de Los Indios” (Indian’s pass) is the most thrilling trekking expedition to this park. This loop takes you through the highest rockie mounts of the country so you can live the utmost experience of this fascinating activity. You will have the opportunity to conquer two outstanding peaks on the same day along the trail: Mt Uran and Mt Chirripo. For those who are passionate about trekking activities just like us, this tour will give you the most vivid memories of Costa Rica.
This trek is only for experienced hikers used to climbing up similar mountains under similar circumstances. The total journey consists of 52 km taking 4 days in total. Good physical shape is required and lots of passion for trekking activities.
Arrival in San Gerardo de Rivas before 3:30 p.m. in order to check into at the park office. We will also give you an informative talk about the tour. After this process, we head towards Herradura de Rivas (the closest village to the entrance of the trail). Once in Herradura, we will have a delicious typical lunch. You may use the afternoon to prepare for an early departure the next day. Dinner and time to share with the guide before going to bed to rest.
The day starts at 4:00 a.m. and breakfast is served at 4:30 a.m. At 5:00 a.m. we are ready to start our challenge towards The Indian’s Pass. We will walk 15 km today and we will arrive to the hut for lunch. At 6:00 p.m we have dinner.
We get up ealier than the previous day at 3:30 a.m. At 4:00 a.m. we have breakfast and depart at 4:30 a.m. Today is the great day when we go through huge mountains conquering the highest peaks of Costa Rica: Chirripo 3,820 m.a.s.l and Urán 3,660 m.a.s.l. After reaching the summits, we descent to Base Crestones where we will spend this night.
We start the day at 5:00 am breakfast at 5:30 am to climb down to San Gerardo, where you can bathe and have a well-deserved lunch.
Items you may need are: Pocho, sleeping bag, hat, gloves, winter hat, sweater, fleece, hiking poles (very useful), hiking shoes , a pair of shoes to wear in at each shelter, bottle of water (1lt capacity the least),raincoat (during winter), and headlamp .
What is the maximun number of hikers allowed for this trek?
The maximun number per group is 5 hikers
Where does this trek start?
After checking into the station in San Gerardo of Rivas, we go to Herradura village at 1,500 m.a.s.l. From here, the trek begins. Another variation of this tour is also available so you may ask for this option and choose the one that better fits your expectations.
Can I start the trek the same day of arrival?
Yes. Ask for the trek starting the same day you arrive or check the description online for Urán and Chirripó Trek. However, you need to consider that the number of days for the trek is the same for the journey. What varies is the number of kilometers you walk each day.
How much time in advance should I book this tour?
During high season, lots of hikers visit the park. We suggest to start your reservation as soon as you have defined the dates so you avoid loosing the opportunity to take this wonderful trek.
Do I have to carry my backpack during the whole journey?
Yes, you need to carry all the items you need during the hike. We suggest you pack light; however, pack everything you really need (see what to bring section). Moreover, pack everything within plastic bags so you ensure your clothes and other items keep dry. You can hire a porter to take your baggage until certain part of the tour. Make sure you request this service if you feel you need it.
What is the weather like?
Costa Rica is a tropical country. Weather is very inconstant (changing) and the environment has high levels of humidity. Rain may happen at any time even during dry season. Temperatures on this area go from 20° Celsius (68° Fahrenheit) and might reach freezing temperatures at night. The area in which we will walk is in the continental divide. This means we have influence from both slopes (Pacific and Caribbean). Finally, be aware that this is a challenging trek that requires experienced hikers and conviction.
Is porter service include in the package?
No, but it you feel you need this service we will include it and let you know the additional cost.
Are sleeping bags required?
Yes, every hiker must take a sleeping bag to spend the night at "Indian's Pass" shelter.
Do hikers need tent camps for this trek?
No, the first night hikers spend the night at Indian's Pass shelter and the second night at Crestones base station.
What is the type of accommodation at Indian's Pass?
There is a shelter where visitors place their sleeping bags (bags not provided) on a sleeping mat (sleeping mats are provided) on a wooden floor. There is enough room to place belongings and a wooden table for having meals. There is a bathroom (very cold and covered with plastic material around).
Maximun altitude is 3,820 m.a.s.l at the summit of Chirripó.
Local guide is mandatory.
Difficulty is too high, and only for experienced hikers.
Walking distance per day
Rental Car
Using google maps is an effective way. Please click on this link to see the location of the park ranger station. Nevertheless, we will let you know where to meet us once your reservation is made.
By Public Bus
For visitors who take public transportation from San José (the capital city), you need to take the bus at MUSOC terminal in San José. Make sure you depart at 9:00 a.m (Costa Rica Time) since the journey to San Isidro takes 3,5 hours at least. Once in San Isidro, you get off the bus and go to the Central Market to take the bus to San Gerardo (ask for time schedule before your arrival) or if you hired transport with us someone from our staff will be waiting for you.
If you hired private transport with us
In case you book private transport with us, we will provide information about where to meet you and time.
| Number of People | *Price |
|---|---|
| 1 | $840 |
| 2 | $638 |
| 3 | $548 |
| 4 | $498 |
| 5 | $460 |
* Prices are subject to changes from the national park authorities
* Latest price update April 12th, 2022
*Prices per person in US dollars
*Guiding service is mandatory
*Maximum people per group is 10 for this trek
We are a tour operator established in Costa Rica that offers hiking and mountaineering options for those who wish to explore the most remote and majestic places in Costa Rica.
When planning your trip, it is advisable to know certain aspects about the country you visit. Therefore, we have a section you may want to read in order to know generalities of the country.
San Isidro de El General
Pérez Zeledón, San José
Costa Rica 11901
+(506)83782641
info@trekkingcostarica.com
