Cross Costa Rica: From Coast to Coast

Day 1 – Arrival in San José

We’ll pick you up at the airport and transfer you to your hotel in San José. Your guide will meet the group and review the adventure ahead. Take the evening to rest or explore the city on your own.

Day 2 – Pacific Coast / Quepos

After breakfast, we drive west to the Pacific Coast near Quepos, next to Manuel Antonio National Park. This is where your journey begins. Dip your feet in the ocean. your goal is now set: reach the Caribbean with nothing but your own power. We stay overnight at a beach hotel and enjoy a welcome dinner and team briefing.

Day 3 – Into the Jungle

Today, the expedition begins. You'll ride mountain bikes for 19 km along gravel roads through palm plantations and farmland. Then, we hike 14 km into the mountains, following jungle trails to a remote valley. We set up our first wilderness camp next to the river and sleep under the stars.

Day 4 – Over the Hills to Santa María

We hike 11 km up “Cemetery Hill,” a steep and challenging climb through dense forest. From there, we cycle 15 km into the town of Santa María. Tonight, you'll stay in a rustic cabin, a chance to rest and shower.

Day 5 – Cross the Continental Divide

Get ready for the toughest challenge of the trip. You'll cycle 48 km with an 8-mile uphill stretch to reach the highest point of the route, 2,330 meters above sea level. Then, descend into the lush valley of Orosi. We’ll camp by the river and enjoy a well-earned dinner.

Day 6 – Tapantí Cloud Forest

A short 10 km bike ride brings us to the entrance of Tapantí National Park. From there, we hike 18 km through pristine cloud forest, passing waterfalls and remote trails. We reach the rural community of Taus and camp nearby.

Day 7 – Enter the Pacuare River

Cycle 43 km through sugar and banana plantations until we reach La Cruz. After lunch, we load our gear onto rafts and paddle 10 km down the Pacuare River, one of the most scenic rivers in the world. We camp at El Nido del Tigre, a jungle lodge deep in the rainforest.

Day 8 – Jungle Rest Day

Enjoy a well-deserved rest. Spend your day relaxing in hammocks, swimming in the river, or exploring nearby waterfalls. Your guides will prepare meals while you take in the sounds of the jungle.

Day 9 – Rafting the Pacuare Canyon

We raft deeper into the Pacuare Canyon today, navigating Class III and IV rapids through virgin rainforest and towering canyons. After a full day on the river, we camp near a banana plantation as we approach the Caribbean lowlands.

Day 10 – Reach the Caribbean Sea

We bike 25 km through flat terrain to the small village of Freeman. Then, switch to sea kayaks for the final 11 km paddle through mangroves and coastal rivers, until we reach the Caribbean Sea. Celebrate your incredible achievement with a dip in the ocean and a final night on the coast.

Day 11 – Return to San José

Spend your morning relaxing on the beach before we transfer you back across the country to San José. You’ll arrive in time for a final group dinner or a restful evening at the hotel.

Day 12 – Farewell!

After breakfast, we’ll transfer you to the airport for your flight home, tired, proud, and full of stories from one of the most unforgettable adventures of your life.

What level of fitness is required for this trip?

Participants should have a moderate level of fitness to enjoy the activities comfortably. The trip involves hiking, sea kayaking, mountain biking, rafting, all outdoor
adventures, so being in good health and prepared for physical activity is recommended.

Are there any age restrictions for this trip?

Generally, the trip is suitable for adults and active older teens. For specific age restrictions or recommendations, please refer to the trip details or contact the organizers directly.

What should I pack for this adventure?

You should bring comfortable outdoor clothing, sturdy footwear, a hat, sunscreen, personal essentials, and any specific gear listed in the packing recommendations. It’s also advisable to carry a camera, reusable water bottle,
and personal identification.

Is this trip for me?

We divide our trips in 3 different levels (low ,medium and high) to give our participants an idea of the fitness level they should have for the trip. This trip is rated as High.

High: You need to be reasonably fit and have good stamina as the trip is a challenge. Good understanding and experience of mountain biking will make the trip more enjoyable. Experience of whitewater rafting is not necessary but you will be paddling all the time you are on the raft so fitness and stamina are a must.

Daily routine

Our days usually start with fresh coffee and breakfast around 6:30. All packed and ready to go for our activity by 8:00. During the day you will have lots of time for pictures, water breaks and enjoying the scenery. The activities will be done at a comfortable pace for everyone, set by the guide. Around mid-day we will stop for lunch at a local restaurant or a picnic lunch made by the guides. The group will finish the day around 3:00 with plenty of time to rest. Dinner is usually served around 7:00 followed by a briefing for the next day.

Group leader

Our Tour Leaders are a key part of any trip. All expertly trained and experienced in every field of activity, bilingual and qualified in first aid and/or Wilderness First responder. They are passion for what they do and full with knowledge ready to share with you. They are responsible for ensuring the complete safety, well-being and enjoyment of our guests but retain a flexible and fun attitude.

Guides Qualifications

All guides have First AID, CPR and Swiftwater Rescue and Head Guides have Wilderness First Responder.

Group size

Average between 6 and 12.

Bikes Specifications

29ers Mountain Bike (Scott and Trek) or similar.

Every bike has front suspension and disk brakes. Participants can bring their own pedals, seats and/or accessories if they want.

Vaccination & Protection

Vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed before departure. Consult your Doctor for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria.

Visas

All countries require a valid passport (with a minimum 6 months validity). Contact your local embassy, or consulate for the most up-to-date visa requirements.
It’s your responsibility to have the correct travel documentation.

Laundry

Having your clothes clean and dry while you travel is always a challenge. Laundry services are offered by some of our hotels for a charge. There will be times
when you may want to do your own laundry so we suggest you bring non-polluting/biodegradable soap.

Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is mandatory