Cerro Chirripo

Cerro Chirripo is usually done as a multi-day hike because the route packs 19.27 km of trail and 2,361 m of elevation gain into a very demanding mountain ascent. Many hikers split the climb with an overnight at Base Crestones, then make an early push to the 3,820 m summit, the highest point in Costa Rica.

Yes. Cerro Chirripo is the highest point in Costa Rica, with its summit at 3,820 meters above sea level inside Chirripo National Park. The mountain sits in the Talamanca range and is also one of the standout high peaks in Central America.

The Cerro Chirripo hike is in Chirripo National Park in Cantón Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica. The usual access is via San Gerardo de Rivas, northwest of San Isidro de El General, where the park administrative office and the San Gerardo to Base Crestones trail access are located.

Cerro Chirripo is an extra difficult hike with 19.27 km of distance and 2,361 m of elevation gain, so it is a serious mountain effort rather than a casual day walk. The altitude, sustained climbing, and multi-day format make it best suited to strong hikers who are comfortable with steep ascents and long hours on trail.

The most reliable time to hike Cerro Chirripo is generally Costa Rica’s drier season, usually from December through April, when trail conditions and summit views are often better. Even then, the mountain’s 3,820 m elevation can bring cold temperatures, wind, and fast-changing weather around Base Crestones and the summit.

Chirripo National Park lists admission for national residents at ¢4,520 and for foreign non-residents at $20.34. Cerro Chirripo visits also require advance reservation, and extra charges can apply for services such as lodging or camping, especially for overnight stays around Base Crestones.