Cross Costa Rica Coast to Coast – 12-day multi-adventure expedition
Cross Costa Rica Coast to Coast – 12-day multi-adventure expedition
A 248 km human-powered crossing of Costa Rica, from the Pacific to the Caribbean, by bike, foot, raft and kayak. This 12-day coast to coast adventure takes you through jungles, rivers, volcanoes, cloud forests and remote villages, guided by expert local leaders. No engines, just muscle, flawless logistics and the wildest version of “Pura Vida”
Two oceans. One unforgettable journey. Cross Costa Rica with us.
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Key information
Itinerary
Day 1: Arrival in San José
Meet your guide and transfer to your hotel in San Jose.
- Overnight in San José.
- Meals: Dinner
Day 2: Pacific Coast Start
Transfer to Pacific coast. Begin trek and mountain bike through rural landscapes.
- Camp overnight. Meals:
- Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3–4: Crossing the Continental Divide
Multi-day biking and trekking through valleys, coffee plantations, and remote villages.
- Overnight in campsites along the route.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5: Orosi Valley & Waterfalls
Bike through the Orosi coffee valley, trek to waterfalls, and camp in the mountains.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6: Pacuare River Descent
Begin whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River.
- Overnight at El Nido del Tigre rainforest camp.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7: Pacuare Canyon Rafting
Continue rafting through world-class rapids. Exit canyon and camp riverside.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8–10: Caribbean Lowlands
Trek and kayak through jungle and riverside communities, camping under the stars. Cross remote forest and rural farmlands.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 11: Caribbean Coast Arrival
Paddle river until reaching a Caribbean beach near Cahuita. Celebrate with group dinner.
- Overnight in lodge.
- Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 12: Farewell!
Transfer back to San José airport.
- Meals: Breakfast
What's included
- 11 nights accommodation (camps, lodges, hotels)
- All meals as per itinerary (B, L, D)
- Professional adventure guides
- All equipment for biking, rafting, kayaking, camping
- Ground transfers
- Activities: biking, trekking, rafting, kayaking
Not included
- International flights
- Travel insurance (mandatory)
- Single supplement ($680–798 depending on season)
- Tips for guides and drivers
- Personal expenses (snacks, drinks, laundry)
- Optional excursions pre/post trip
Packing list
- Hiking boots (broken-in)
- Sandals or water shoes
- Comfortable cycling gear
- Lightweight quick-dry clothing
- Warm layer & rain jacket
- Swimsuits
- Hat, sunglasses
- Sunscreen & insect repellent
- Headlamp
- Sleeping bag (for camping)
- Reusable water bottle
- Personal meds
Weather
Tropical climate varies:
- Pacific lowlands: hot & humid
- Highlands: cooler, chance of rain
- Caribbean: hot, humid, more rainfall
Year-round departures; dry season (Dec–Apr) more popular.
Accomodation
Combination of campsites and hotels:
- Rainforest tented camp (El Nido del Tigre)
- Eco-lodges
- Hotels in San José
- Hotel in Cahuita.
How to get there?
International flights arrive at San José (SJO).
- Transfers to/from airport included.
- Ground transport provided when not trekking, biking, or rafting.
FAQs
What level of fitness is required for this trip?
This expedition is rated as High. You need good overall fitness and stamina, as the trip combines several days of hiking, mountain biking, rafting and kayaking. You don’t need previous rafting experience, but you should be comfortable with long active days outdoors.
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
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is mandatory for all our adventures and you’ll need to share your policy details before departure. Your cover must include overseas medical treatment, emergency evacuation/repatriation, baggage and equipment, plus all the activities in your itinerary.
We also strongly recommend cancellation and curtailment cover in case illness or other unforeseen events prevent you from travelling.
Standard policies often exclude adventure activities, so please check the fine print. Many travelers choose World Nomads for adventure, focused protection, select the policy that fits your needs and fully covers your trip.