Chirripo National Park
The highest peak of Costa Rica rises 3800 m above the Cordillera de Talamanca, in the middle of a 50,500 ha park. The Chirripó, despite its size, beautiful landscapes and cool, mountainous environment, is visited by only a few visitors. The people who come here see the striking difference between the cloud forest and the lichen-covered low forest, fast-flowing rivers and windswept plains, but also suffer from cold. Chirripó is part of the La Amistad Reserve and is a World Heritage Site.
San Gerardo de Rivas is the starting point for a visit to the Chirripó. Here you will find the park headquarters. Since the 19 km (12 mi) arduous trek to the top takes at least two days, hikers should reserve a place to sleep in a mountain hut well in advance. Reservations are also required if you are taking a day trip, the number of visitors allowed is limited. The temperature on the mountain drops to around freezing at night, it often rains and you have to bring all your food and water with you. Expect a cold wind and bright sun, but look forward to a rejuvenating bath in the hot springs at Herradura on the way back. The mountain hut is located 15 km from the entrance of the park. You get there via a clearly marked, but hard to walk path, a walk of about eight to eleven hours. Leave before sunrise to avoid the afternoon rain. Just before you reach the cabin you will see Los Crestones, sharp rocks on a bare ridge, where the icy wind reaches high speeds. From the cabins you can take walks to the top or to beautiful lakes.