Park Attractions

The Chirripó National Park protects forested areas in the southern Talamanca Mountain region, south of Tapantí National Park. Mount Chirripó is the highest peak in Costa Rica. The mountains in this area are covered in thick primary cloud and rainforest to about 9,000' elevation. From there, the páramo, or wet desert, is the primary ground cover.

There is more than 8,000' of elevation change from the San Gerardo Station to the peak at Mount Chirripó. Vegetation and climate conditions change with elevation, and temperatures can be below freezing at certain times of the year. No technical climbing or mountaineering expertise is necessary to reach the peaks in the Park, but the steep trek is approximately a 30 mile roundtrip, and typically planned for 3 days.

Park Facilities and Hours

The Ranger Station is found in San Gerardo de Rivas, and is open for visitor attention from 5am to 12 pm. Los Crestones Base camp is equipped with bunk beds, a cooking area, and cold showers. Reservations are required.The only other camping allowed in the Park is at the Indian Pass Camping Area along the Uran Trail.