Hiking in Costa Rica: 7 Amazing Costa Rica Hiking Trails

Just a few hours from many major U.S. cities, Costa Rica is a destination with breathtaking landscapes and unparalleled wildlife viewing. And encapsulating this wide array of natural wonders into a single experience is possible through one activity: hiking in Costa Rica. The impressive number of trails take you from tranquil coastlines to majestic mountains allowing hikers of all levels to experience what makes Costa Rica hiking so captivating and makes it one of the best things to do on vacation.

“Costa Rica offers diverse trails, from volcano hikes like Arenal with stunning views, to rainforest hikes in Monteverde Cloud Forest with lush canopy and wildlife,” says Costa Rica travel specialist Julie Norton. “Additionally, there are rainforest-to-beach hikes like Manuel Antonio National Park and hikes with beautiful waterfalls to see and swim in. It's a hiker's paradise!”

In this guide, we'll dive deep into the best of Costa Rica hiking, offering expert insights and essential advice to kickstart your hiking Costa Rica trip in this breathtaking part of the world.

What to Pack for Hiking in Costa Rica

You've booked that long-awaited Costa Rica hiking trip and are now wondering what to wear hiking in Costa Rica. The tropical climate and diverse terrain demand thoughtful preparation. So, here are a few essentials to consider:

Sturdy Costa Rica Hiking Shoes: Investing in a good pair of Costa Rica hiking shoes is key. These should offer ankle support and a firm grip on various terrains, from sandy beaches to cloud forest trails. Waterproof or water-resistant shoes are beneficial during the rainy season in Costa Rica.

Light Athletic Pants and Tops: Lightweight and breathable clothing is the answer to what to wear hiking in Costa Rica. Opt for moisture-wicking and quick-drying fabrics that keep you comfortable during long treks and keep colors light and neutral to avoid insects. Don't forget a hat and sunglasses for sun protection and a light rain jacket for sudden downpours (especially if you're planning a Costa Rica hiking trip during the rainy season).

Bug Spray: Bugs are prevalent in Costa Rica's jungles and forests, so be sure to pack insect repellent to ward off any unwanted visitors.

Sunscreen and First-Aid Kit: Protect your skin from the often-intense tropical sun with a high-SPF sunscreen and have a basic first-aid kit handy for minor injuries if you opt to go hiking in Costa Rica without a guide.

Costa Rica Hiking Map: While many trails are well-marked, a Costa Rica hiking map or a GPS device can be invaluable to avoid getting lost in the diverse landscapes of this Central American paradise if attempting the trails alone. If you go with a local guide, you shouldn't worry about bringing a map along. But it can be helpful in better understanding the terrain.

"While it's important to pack the proper gear, Scott Dunn's local private guides carry extra water and snacks, bug spray, a Costa Rica hiking map, and apps on their phones to call birds or recognize plants and binoculars, ensuring the best experience possible," says Norton.

Where to Hike in Costa Rica

Costa Rica offers an array of hiking destinations catering to various preferences and fitness levels. Here are some of our top hiking spots to explore:

Hiking Arenal Volcano

Arenal Volcano National Park offers one of the most famous volcano hiking experiences with well-maintained trails winding through rainforests, providing incredible views of the majestic Arenal Volcano. The primary route, "Los Tucanes," is an easy walk suitable for most visitors, making it one of the best hiking trails in Costa Rica and top destinations. The trail takes you through the rainforest and across a large lava flow from 1992, showcasing a variety of plants, wildlife, and magnificent lava rock formations. Within the park's borders, you can spot an astonishing array of Costa Rica's biodiversity, including over 850 identified bird species, such as the endangered and elusive quetzal. After the hike, you can opt for a visit to the nearby mineral hot springs.

Skill level: Hikes range from easy to moderate and take you through lava fields and forests.

Best for: Given the variety of trails, all family members can participate in hiking Arenal Volcano. Those with youngsters can take the 1-kilometer hike to see Rio Fortuna Waterfall while those wanting a bit more intensity can opt for the Forest Trail that’s excellent for birding.

Monteverde Cloud Forest

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Reserve, with its mystical atmosphere, is some of the best hiking in Costa Rica. The popular Sendero Bosque Nuboso (Cloud Forest Trail) covers 1.2 miles with an elevation gain of 213 feet and takes about 1.5 hours to complete. It boasts striking views and fascinating strangler fig plants. Birdwatchers will love the El Camino (The Road) trail, which is 1.2 miles long with an elevation gain of 131 feet and takes around 1.25 hours. Other captivating trails include Sendero Pantanoso (Swamp Trail) and Sendero Chomogo, reaching the highest elevation at 5,510 feet. Plus, you can explore the Suspended Bridge, offering breathtaking views of the canopy, bromeliads, orchids, and more.

Skill level: Traversing through this enchanting forest requires a bit of effort and is recommended for those who can handle a moderate hike.

Best for: Families with older children will love the hikes available here as you can witness incredible wildlife and plants. Over 600 different species of butterflies have been identified here.

Manuel Antonio National Park

Manuel Antonio National Park offers the perfect blend of classic Costa Rica hiking and beach relaxation with abundant wildlife. Wander along the half-mile La Catarata Trail to a charming waterfall, spotting fascinating frogs. For an easier stroll, take the short and accessible El Perezoso Trail, leading to beautiful beaches and convenient facilities. Meanwhile, the 0.8-mile Punta Catedral Trail with stunning lookout points immerses you in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Or the 0.8-mile Mirador Trail offers a breathtaking view of Punta Serrucho. The Congo Trail links Playa Gemelas and the Mirador Trail for a convenient return option.

Skill level: Both easy and moderate trails are available that give you a taste of forest and beach. And the newer elevated walkway makes certain sections even more comfortable for all ages.

Best for: Families with kids of all ages and multigenerational travelers will love the chance to see Costa Rica’s famous animals in Manuel Antonio National Park.

Hiking Chirripó

Hiking Cerro Chirripo in Costa Rica without a guide is a challenging yet rewarding adventure. This best hiking trail in Costa Rica takes you to the country's highest point at 12,533 feet elevation, covering a difficult two-day, 23-mile round trip with a staggering 8,600 feet of elevation gain. While some brave souls may tackle hiking in Costa Rica without a guide, it's worth considering the benefits of having Scott Dunn set up a knowledgeable companion for this trek. They can assist with permits and navigation and ensure a safer and more enjoyable experience throughout this exhilarating journey.

Skill level: This trail is as difficult as it gets in Costa Rica and is only suitable for very skilled hikers.

Best for: If you’re an active family with older children that are also avid hikers, trekking up Costa Rica’s tallest mountain can be an incredible adventure and bonding experience.

Corcovado National Park 

Corcovado National Park was hailed as "the most biologically intense place on Earth" by National Geographic. So, nature lovers will feel like they have stepped into paradise. Its rugged hiking trails lead through dense jungles, providing opportunities to spot rare wildlife like pumas and giant anteaters. Hiking in Costa Rica without a guide might be challenging here, as the park's complex terrains usually require a guide.

Skill level: Most of the trails here are easy, but there are a couple of moderate to hard ones as well.

Best for: Those traveling with multiple generations in tow will love hiking here because there is something for everyone. If you have youngsters, a trail to a waterfall is possible in under 2 kilometers. Have older kids? A few more difficult trails are available taking you through a historic cemetery and to beaches.

Bajos del Toro Waterfall

The Bajos del Toro Waterfall Hike is a 1.3-mile moderately difficult loop where you must take 400 steps to reach the waterfall's base. Once there, you'll be greeted with a rainbow-colored canyon surrounded by classic vibrant green rainforest vegetation.

Skill level: Although the hike isn’t long, it’s moderately difficult as you have to climb down the steps to see the natural spectacle.

Best for: Families traveling with teens will enjoy this hike because it doesn’t take much time but has incredible sights.

Hiking Poas Volcano

There's a reason Poas Volcano is one of the best hiking trails in Costa Rica. For families and leisurely walkers, a comfortable, flat paved pathway offers a quick and easy 10-minute stroll to the active volcanic crater. Meanwhile, the Laguna Botos Trail, a half-mile journey through the enchanting cloud forest, leads to a scenic platform with a mesmerizing view of the extinct volcanic crater, now transformed into a serene pool of cold blue-green water.

Skill level: Novice and moderate hikers are welcome to visit the trails for some volcano hiking.

Best for: Families with young children can take the quick out-and-back trail while those with older kids can attempt the longer hikes and see a picturesque lagoon along with the crater.

Costa Rica Hiking Tours

For those seeking a guided hiking experience, Costa Rica offers numerous tour options. Whether you are a solo traveler or prefer group expeditions, we offer customized tours that cater to your preferences.

“When guests opt for hikes, we go the extra mile by arranging a private guide for an unforgettable one-day tour lasting around 3 hours,” says Norton. “For the adventurous souls seeking a challenge, we even have an option for one of the harder hikes available – the exhilarating Poas Volcano hike."

Another unique hiking option we recommend is staying at Tortuga Lodge. The eco-chic property sits on 50 acres of private land bordering Tortuguero National Park, one of the country’s most popular ecotourism destinations, on the northeast Caribbean coast. So, you can step out your hotel room door and onto four biodiverse trails. While walking, you can try and spot all the different wildlife living close by like thumbnail-sized Strawberry Poison Dart Frogs.

No matter what you decide, Scott Dunn can curate a Costa Rica hiking vacation that’s a safe and enriching experience, offering in-depth knowledge about the region's ecology and wildlife.