Chirripó National Park

Chirripó National Park is a high‑elevation protected area in Costa Rica’s Talamanca range that includes the country’s highest mountain. It safeguards páramo-like and montane forest ecosystems and is a key site for endemic highland species.

Hiking to the summit of Cerro Chirripó is the park’s main attraction; the ascent reaches about 3,820 metres and typically takes two days with an overnight at the mountain lodge or campsite. Trails pass through several vegetation zones, offering wide views on clear days that can extend to both the Pacific and Caribbean coasts.

The park was created to protect high-elevation habitats and watersheds and to conserve the unique flora and fauna of the Talamanca highlands. Management and access rules have evolved to control visitor numbers and protect vulnerable alpine environments.

The park sits in the Talamanca mountain chain in southern Costa Rica, within San José Province and bordering other provinces; the usual trailhead is at San Gerardo de Rivas on the park’s slopes.

• Permits and reservations: Overnight hiking permits and camp or mountain lodge reservations are required and subject to quotas, so bookings should be made well in advance.

What to See #

• Cerro Chirripó: The national park contains Cerro Chirripó, the highest peak in Costa Rica at about 3,820 metres, which is the park's principal destination for hikers.
• San Gerardo de Rivas access: Primary access to the summit is via trails that start near the village of San Gerardo de Rivas, where most multi-day treks begin and overnight stays are arranged.