El Camino de Costa Rica: The Ultimate Thru-Hiking Guide (2025)

If you’ve ever dreamed of trekking across an entire country—from the Caribbean Sea to the Pacific Ocean—then El Camino de Costa Rica should be at the top of your bucket list.

This 280-km (174-mile) coast-to-coast thru-hike takes you through rainforests, mountains, indigenous territories, rural farmlands, and cloud forests, offering an experience few travelers get to see. It’s one of Central America’s best long-distance hikes, but it’s still a hidden gem.

In this comprehensive guide, you’ll find route details, costs, logistics, accommodation options, and insider tips to help you plan your cross-country hiking adventure in Costa Rica.

What is El Camino de Costa Rica?

El Camino de Costa Rica is a multi-day hiking trail that spans from the Caribbean coast (Parismina or Barra de Pacuare) to the Pacific Ocean (Quepos or Boca de Parrita).

The route was designed by the El Camino de Costa Rica Association to promote sustainable tourism and economic opportunities for rural communities along the trail.

Quick Facts About El Camino de Costa Rica:

• Distance: ~280 km (~174 miles)

• Time Required: 14–16 days

• Difficulty: Moderate to Challenging (varied terrain)

• Elevation Gain: ~8,000m (~26,000 feet)

• Starting Point: Parismina or Barra de Pacuare (Caribbean Sea)

• Ending Point: Quepos or Boca de Parrita (Pacific Ocean)

• Best Time to Hike: December–April (dry season)

• Route Type: Point-to-point (coast to coast)

How Long Does It Take to Hike El Camino de Costa Rica?

Most hikers take 14–16 days to complete the trail, averaging 15–25 km (9–15 miles) per day. Faster hikers could complete it in 10–12 days, but slower trekkers or those wanting to enjoy the scenery might take up to 20 days.

El Camino de Costa Rica Route Breakdown

The trail is divided into 16 stages, each with unique landscapes, difficulty levels, and cultural experiences.

Stage	Distance	Terrain	Highlights
1. Caribbean Coast to Cimarrones	21 km	Flat, humid	Remote fishing villages, wildlife
2. Cimarrones to Las Brisas	20 km	Rolling hills	Rural farming communities
3. Las Brisas to Turrialba	18 km	Moderate climbs	Coffee farms, Turrialba Volcano views
4. Turrialba to Pejibaye	16 km	Varied terrain	Rainforest trails, rivers
5. Pejibaye to Tausito	22 km	Challenging	Remote mountain trails
6. Tausito to La Suiza	17 km	Hilly	Cloud forests, waterfalls
7. La Suiza to Navarrito	18 km	Steep	Spectacular valley views
8. Navarrito to Santa Maria de Dota	20 km	Cloud forest	High-altitude landscapes
9. Santa Maria de Dota to Naranjillo	19 km	Moderate	Birdwatching paradise
10. Naranjillo to San Pablo	16 km	Easy	Coffee plantations
11. San Pablo to San Lorenzo	21 km	Rolling hills	Rural culture, friendly locals
12. San Lorenzo to Londres	22 km	Easy	Entrance to the Pacific lowlands
13. Londres to Quepos (Pacific Coast)	16 km	Coastal	Finish at the Pacific Ocean!

Some variations of the route have slight differences, but this is the standard itinerary.

How Difficult is El Camino de Costa Rica?

This is a moderate to challenging trek due to long distances, elevation gain, and variable weather. Expect:

• Steep climbs and descents in the Talamanca Mountains

• Humid lowlands in the Caribbean section

• Muddy trails and river crossings in the rainy season

Good fitness and hiking experience are recommended!

Accommodation Options Along El Camino de Costa Rica

The trail has lodging options in villages, including:

• Eco-lodges & small hotels: $30–$80 per night

• Homestays with local families: $15–$30 per night (often includes meals)

• Camping in rural areas: Free or small fee ($5–$10)

• Basic hostels/dorms: $10–$25

Many towns have small convenience stores and restaurants for resupplying and meals.

Costs of Hiking El Camino de Costa Rica

Expense	Estimated Cost (USD)
Park & trail fees	Free
Accommodation	$10–$80 per night
Meals	$5–$15 per meal
Local transport (to trailheads)	$5–$15
Guided tour (optional)	$1,800–$3,500 per person

Total Budget Estimate:

• Budget hikers: $500–$900

• Mid-range hikers: $1,000–$1,500

• Guided tours: $2,000–$4,000

Guided vs. Independent Hiking

• Independent Hiking: Most of the trail is well-marked, and you can navigate using maps and GPS apps.

• Guided Tours: Some sections pass through indigenous territories where a local guide is required.

Tour companies offer guided hikes with meals, lodging, and baggage transfers.

How to Get to the Trailheads

• Caribbean Start (Parismina or Barra de Pacuare)

• From San José: Take a bus or shuttle to Siquirres ($5), then a boat ($15).

• Pacific End (Quepos or Boca de Parrita)

• From Quepos: Take a bus ($8) or domestic flight ($70) back to San José.

Best Time to Hike El Camino de Costa Rica

Season	Weather	Pros & Cons
December–April (Dry Season)	Mostly dry, warm	Best time to hike, but more expensive
May–November (Rainy Season)	Wet, humid	Fewer tourists, but muddy and harder river crossings

Packing List for El Camino de Costa Rica

✔ Hiking boots (waterproof)

✔ Lightweight backpack (40–50L)

✔ Rain jacket & poncho

✔ Trekking poles

✔ Water filter (rivers and springs available)

✔ Bug spray & sunscreen

✔ Cash (rural areas have no ATMs)

✔ Spanish phrasebook/app

Final Tips for Hiking El Camino de Costa Rica

✔ Learn basic Spanish—locals don’t always speak English.

✔ Respect local communities—you’re hiking through people’s land.

✔ Start early—afternoons get hot and rainy.

✔ Pack light—you’ll regret every extra pound.

✔ Carry enough cash—some villages don’t take cards.

✔ Take it slow—this is about the journey, not speed.

Final Thoughts: Is El Camino de Costa Rica Worth It?

Absolutely! If you want an off-the-beaten-path adventure that combines stunning landscapes, authentic local culture, and a true coast-to-coast journey, this is one of the best long-distance hikes in Central America.

Now, are you ready to hike across a country? Pura Vida!