About: This is an extremely advanced and technical hike located on the slopes of the active Poas Volcano. It can only be done with certain groups that are experienced with the route as it can be very dangerous due to its proximity to an active volcano and because it traverses private property. It requires the…
Tag: Hikes
Bosque Municipal de Atenas
About: While these trails are open and available to the public, there is no official entrance and there are no workers to help you. The good part is that it is free. The entrance is just off the side of the road and you can park at the restaurant across the street. There is no…
Balneario Las Musas
About: This park used to be just a swimming pool with a natural waterfall and surrounding green areas including a short trail system, but it has now expanded to include more adventures including zipline, canyoning, tarzan swing, and a zipline bike. In addition there is a larger trail system. There is also a waterslide into…
500 Steps
About: This is a sort of urban hike in the middle of the city where an old and abandoned hydroelectric dam is. It follows a long set of stairs, around 405 so not quite 500, that parallels a giant water pipe. There used to be a cable to at least hold on to while you…
Nectandra Cloud Forest Reserve
About: This private reserve offers guided tours by reservation only. They focus on public education and reducing human impact on the rainforest. Their tours are tailored to the guests needs and interests, and include a short lecture. There is a cafe. Province: Alajuela Starting from: La Fortuna / Downtown Alajuela / Downtown Heredia / Downtown…
Montaña Sagrada Natural Reserve
About: This is a true hidden gem! While it is a little bit out of the way for a pit stop, if you can swing it, it will be worth your while. This private reserve offers hiking trails that lead to the “green lagoon”, a volcanic lagoon that is a brilliant green color. The views…
La Vieja Adventures
About: This tour takes you through a river canyon with walls up to 100 meters high. There are stairs with an optional harness you can wear for safety. The entire route is 3.5 kilometers and reaches the Sapphire Waterfall. There are 3 tour options: the basic tour which includes a guide, the day pass which…
El Cocora Cloud Forest
About: This is the perfect pit stop on the way to La Fortuna from the metropolitan area because it is just about halfway and it has everything you need: a short trail if you need to stretch your legs, a longer trail if you want more of a hike, a butterfly garden, a hummingbird garden…
Cinchona Waterfall Trails
About: These trails are well-maintained but steep as they go down into the canyon to a total of 4 waterfalls, 2 of which you can swim in. The hike is short but challenging, but there are some ropes to help on the steep sections. It is a hike down and back up to get out….
Catarata San Vicente
About: This is a short trail to visit two waterfalls, Catarata San Vicente and Cascada el Jilguero. The trail is well-marked and is easy to moderate difficulty. You can swim in one of the waterfalls, but the water is cold. Province: Alajuela Starting from: La Fortuna / Downtown Alajuela / Downtown Heredia / Downtown San…