Costa Rica Coast to Coast Hiking Tour
Epic Trails from the Caribbean to the Pacific on the Camino de Costa Rica
- Available: January, February, March, April, May, November, December
- Activity: Level 4
- Accommodations: Comfortable Hotels, Rustic Lodges
Highlights
- Gear up for rewarding hikes on the best 40 miles of Costa Rica's new Coast to Coast Trail passing through the territory of monkeys, sloths, toucans, lizards, and other amazing wildlife
- Delight in breathtaking natural wonders, from the lowland rivers and canals of the Caribbean to the majestic volcanoes and cloud forests of the highlands and the pristine beaches of the Pacific
- Enjoy warm hospitality and hearty local fare at carefully chosen boutique hotels and wilderness lodges along the route
Itinerary
Arrive in San Jose, Costa Rica
Day 1
Arrive at the airport in San Jose, Costa Rica. Meet a local representative and transfer to your peaceful hotel, surrounded by lush gardens. Recover from your travels with a dip in the pool or soak in the sights and sounds of the gardens. End the day with a delicious welcome dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Bougainvillea-Heredia, Costa Rica
Accommodation: El Rodeo Estancia Boutique HotelMeals: Dinner
Journey to the Caribbean Coast, Cruise Rainforest Canals & Hike the Pacuare Reserve
Day 2
Depart San Jose and head for the Caribbean Coast. From the Goshen Pier, set out by covered motorboat on narrow canals, similar to Tortuguero, scanning the shores for toucanets and crocodiles. Arrive at the tiny fishing village of Barra de Pacuare, the official start (Stage 1) of the new Coast to Coast Trail. After a relatively easy first day of walking through the Pacuare Reserve, home to howler monkeys, poison dart frogs, and rare jaguars and ocelots, take a final short boat trip to your lodge, surrounded by tropical forests and canals just a short distance from the Caribbean Sea.
Accommodation: Lirio Lodge
Activity: 2 hours/2.5 miles easy hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss
Transportation: 3-4 hour private van transfer; 45-minute private motorboat cruise plus shorter motorboat transfer to lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike to Tsiobata Village & Raft the Pacuare River
Day 3
Return by motorboat this morning to Goshen Pier, then transfer by private van to San Martin de Tres Equis, a small village dedicated to cattle ranching. Travel by tractor-drawn cart to the shores of the Pacuare River, and begin an exciting rafting trip on class II and III rapids. Midway through the rafting journey, stop for a short but challenging hike uphill on Stage 4 of the Coast to Coast Trail, to the traditional indigenous village of Tsiobata. After meeting the villagers and learning about their lifestyle, hike back to the river and raft another segment before meeting the tractor-drawn cart to travel back to the main road. Arrive at our hotel just outside of Turrialba for an overnight stay, with excellent birdwatching throughout the expansive grounds.
Accommodation: Casa Turire
Activity: 3 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain & 800' elevation loss; 1.5 hours rafting
Transportation: 30-minute motorboat cruise; 4-hour private van transfer plus 40 minutes tractor-drawn cart transfers
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spy Tropical Birds on a Hike to Tapanti National Park
Day 4
Hike Stage 8 of the Coast to Coast Trail, climbing steeply uphill from Pejibaye to the highlands of Taus and the entrance of Tapanti National Park. The hike through tropical forest includes some lovely views, and those with keen eyes may spot tanagers, oropendulas and hummingbirds, or even trogons or spider monkeys among the dense foliage. Your private van is waiting to take you to Hacienda Orosi for an overnight stay. Enjoy a self-guided coffee tour on the estate, as well as free time to take a soothing soak in hot spring baths (four pools with different temperatures).
Accommodation: Coffee Pickers Village at Hacienda Orosi
Activity: 5 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,700' elevation gain & 1,550' elevation loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb to the Palo Verde Cloud Forest Reserve
Day 5
From the trailhead at Navarro de Muneco, hike Stage 10 of the Coast to Coast Trail, climbing uphill past majestic cedars and pines to the Palo Verde Cloud Forest Reserve. Join a local mycologist to discover the diversity of mushrooms and other fascinating fungi, and the vital role they play in forest ecology. Following lunch in a charming local home, transfer to a nearby lodge for an overnight stay. Birdwatchers won't want to miss the opportunity to seek out the elusive quetzal in some of their last remaining habitat, found on the trails around the lodge.
Accommodation: Trogon Lodge
Accommodation: Mirador de QuetzalesActivity: 5 hours/7 miles hiking with 2,340' elevation gain & 1,300' elevation loss
Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Descend to the Valley of the Saints & Sip Locally Grown Coffee
Day 6
After a short drive to Jardin de Dota, and from the highest point in your journey (7,671' above sea level), hike down into the Valley of the Saints (Stage 12 of the Coast to Coast Trail) passing rural villages in this fertile coffee producing region. Stop for lunch at a local restaurant, then meet the private van for a transfer to Toucanet Lodge or Cedrela Eco Lodge, where you spend the night. Here, savor the aromas and flavors of freshly roasted local coffee, considered some of the finest in Costa Rica, and learn about the deep traditions of this culinary delight. Also enjoy the pristine beauty of the lodge, surrounded by an exuberant cloud forest and its centennial oak trees covered in moss and bromeliads, and over 200 species of birds, including brilliantly colored hummingbirds.
Accommodation: Toucanet Lodge
Accommodation: Cedrela Eco LodgeActivity: 4 hours/7 miles hiking with 650' elevation gain & 2,500' elevation loss
Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike through the Esquipulas Rainforest
Day 7
After a short drive to the cross of Santa Juan Pito de Tarrazu, hike Stages 14 & 15 of the Coast to Coast Trail through Fila Brunquena and the Esquipulas Rainforest, with chances to see scarlet macaws, trogans, and even king vultures. Stay overnight in rustic but comfortable "tipis" in the rainforest, with elevated wooden floors and thatched roofs, outfitted with electricity and real mattresses with pillows and linens.
Accommodation: Esquipulas Rainforest Lodge
Activity: 6 hours/12.4 miles hiking with 1,050' elevation gain & 4,400' elevation loss (support vehicle available)
Transportation: 45-minute private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike the Final Stage to the Pacific Ocean
Day 8
The final Stage 16 of the Coast to Coast Trail culminates in an exhilarating encounter with the majestic Pacific Ocean. After a short van transfer arrive at Villa Nueva for an eye-opening spice tour where you'll see how vanilla, cinnamon, cacao, black pepper, allspice, and other exotic crops are grown and be treated to a tasting. Set out on a hike to Finca Anita, where hikers are rewarded with the breathtaking view of the sea glittering on the horizon. From Finca Anita, a short van transfer takes you to Quepos for a final short walk at the end point of the Coast to Coast Trail, then transfer to your lodge. Check in to your lodgings in Manuel Antonio to indulge yourself after your amazing journey from coast to coast.
Accommodation: Si Como No Hotel
Activity: 2 hours/3 miles hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss
Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Wildlife Walk and Beach Relaxation at Manuel Antonio
Day 9
After a morning guided wildlife walk inside Manuel Antonio National Park, looking out for sloths, coatimundis, turtles, and a variety of monkeys swinging through the trees, spend the rest of the day unwinding on the palm-fringed pristine beaches of Costa Rica, soaking up the sun and reflecting on the incredible journey you've experienced. Gather for a festive farewell dinner this evening.
Accommodation: Si Como No Hotel
Activity: 2-hours wildlife walk
Transportation: Hotel shuttle to and from Manuel Antonio National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Return to San Jose & Depart
Day 10
This morning, transfer back to the San Jose airport and depart for home.
Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer
Meals: Breakfast
Why Travel With Us?
MT Sobek has been operating active adventures in Costa Rica since 1980, placing a strong emphasis on responsible travel practices that support local communities and protect the natural environment.
- This exclusive adventure captures the best legs of the new coast to coast “Camino de Costa Rica” in an achievable perfectly paced timeframe, without rustic homestays or camping.
- Experience Costa Rica away from the crowds with our top-notch local guides on an itinerary designed for active travelers who prefer an authentic experience.
Dates & Prices
Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.
The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.
Your Guides
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Juan Antonio C.
A certified guide since 2014, Juan Antonio has been leading hikers through Costa Rica since he started guiding and specializes in natural history, photography, culture, and history. He holds an international Wilderness First Responder certification. He is an expert on the Camino de Costa Rica, having completed over 40 treks since the first run. His passion for hiking and trekking has taken him up 300 of Costa Rica’s mountains and over celebrated treks and up high peaks internationally. He is an avid amateur photographer and mycologist and loves to get guests excited about their time on Costa Rica’s trails.
Adrian S.
Driven by his admiration for professional guides encountered while pursuing his interests in birdwatching and photography, Adrian became a licensed guide in 2021. He studied sustainability and environmental tourism at university and today, leading travelers, students, and university groups, he shares his lifelong passion for Costa Rica’s rich national parks through an academic and environmental lens. His journey as a guide goes beyond showcasing Costa Rica’s many natural wonders—he strives to foster a deeper connection between people and the environment.
Bryan O.
A born environmentalist, Bryan studied natural resource and wildlife management before earning his guiding certification in 2012. He has led expeditions through the neotropical rainforests of Costa Rica and Panama, and diverse ecosystems ranging from lowland swamp forest to high plateaus. He is an avid birdwatcher and lover of all outdoor adventures from hiking to rafting and rock climbing but is most passionate about raising conservation and sustainability awareness as he guides guests through some of Costa Rica’s most delicate and remarkable environments.
Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 4. Hike 4-6 hours per day on 4 back-to-back days, plus 2 shorter days on either side. Terrain varies from humid rainforests and river valleys to temperate cloud forests and agricultural lands, with steady climbs and descents that require stamina. Sections of the trail are on rural roads, parts may be rocky or muddy, and there are a couple ankle-deep stream crossings. Elevations range from sea level to 7,700 feet. During rafting, guests actively paddle under the command of expert guides.
Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
2 hours/2.5 miles easy hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss
Day 3
3 hours/2.5 miles hiking with 800' elevation gain & 800' elevation loss; 1.5 hours rafting
Day 4
5 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,700' elevation gain & 1,550' elevation loss
Day 5
5 hours/7 miles hiking with 2,340' elevation gain & 1,300' elevation loss
Day 6
4 hours/7 miles hiking with 650' elevation gain & 2,500' elevation loss
Day 7
6 hours/12.4 miles hiking with 1,050' elevation gain & 4,400' elevation loss (support vehicle available)
Day 8
2 hours/3 miles hiking with minimal elevation gain & loss
Day 9
2-hours wildlife walk
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
Relax at first-class hotels, boutique historic properties, and ecolodges in the heart of Costa Rica, plus enjoy one night in elevated thatched-roof cabins with comfortable beds.
Hotel Bougainvillea-Heredia, Costa Rica
Hotel Bougainvillea is an oasis located just 10 minutes outside of downtown San Jose, surrounded by 10 acres of award-winning tropical gardens that attract many of the birds and butterflies that Costa Rica is famous for. Wander the grounds and enjoy the peaceful surroundings, lovely solar heated pool, and a restaurant beloved by both locals and visitors, with a focus on regional dishes. Rooms are bright and clean, with views of the Central Valley and surrounding mountains or the beautiful gardens.
Lirio Lodge
Casa Turire
Coffee Pickers Village at Hacienda Orosi
At Hacienda Orosi, immerse yourself in the mineral hot springs pools and enjoy views of the spectacular paradise of the Orosi Valley, Cerro Barba de Viejo, and the imposing Irazu and Turrialba volcanoes. Trails around the hacienda boast a rich biodiversity of birds and animals. The 10 villas of the Coffee Pickers Village are set amidst the coffee plantations and are fully equipped with modern amenities including en suite bathrooms. Each villa has two or three bedrooms and one shared bathroom, and single guests may share a villa with one or two same-gender guests (each with your own bedroom).
Toucanet Lodge
Esquipulas Rainforest Lodge
Si Como No Hotel
Trogon Lodge
Mirador de Quetzales
El Rodeo Estancia Boutique Hotel
Cedrela Eco Lodge
Weather
Daytime temperatures in the 70s and 80s F, evening lows in the 60s F, varying with elevation. Expect tropical humidity. December-April are driest in most regions but expect rain any time of year.
FAQs
Only the hotels in San Jose and Manuel Antonio have air conditioning (nights 1, 8 & 9). Lirio Lodge, Casa Turire, Hacienda Orosi, and Esquipulas Rainforest Lodge have fans (nights 2, 3, 4 & 7). There is no air conditioning or ceiling fans at our lodges in the cloud forest (nights 5 & 6), but rooms were built to let the breeze come in and you are at some elevation in these locations, so temperatures are generally cool at night.
Day 3 will have about 2.5 hours of rafting through class II and III rapids. We will use paddleboats with 4-6 participants and you will learn how to paddle together as a team.
We recommend that you bring insect repellant to protect against mosquito bites in the more humid areas around sea level. In the coastal parts of our trip (at Lirio Lodge in Barra de Pacuare, Esquipulas Rainforest Lodge, and Si Como No in Manuel Antonio), you may see a few mosquitoes around dawn and dusk. At higher elevations, there are usually no mosquitoes.