The Route
16 stages, 280 km, coast to coast
El Camino de Costa Rica is organized into 16 official stages. How many trail-days that becomes for you depends on which of our programs you choose.
How the route is organized
The official trail is divided into 16 stages end to end, each finishing in a different community. Depending on your fitness and available time, our guided programs group those stages into 12, 15 or 16 hiking days — a faster program covers more stage distance per day, while a longer program spreads the same 280 km over more days with extra rest built in.
The route in four phases
Caribbean lowlands
The trail begins near the Caribbean coast, crossing tropical rainforest and lowland terrain.
Cordillera de Talamanca
The middle stages climb into Costa Rica's highest mountain range, through cloud forest — the most physically demanding section of the route.
Highlands & coffee country
The trail descends through the central highlands and coffee-growing areas as it approaches the Pacific slope.
Pacific coast
The final stages bring the trail down to finish on the Pacific coast.
The detailed, day-by-day stage plan — including exactly where you'll sleep each night — is confirmed for your specific program when you book.
Pick how you want to cover the stages
Ready to plan your crossing?
Tell us your dates and group size — we'll reply with availability and a detailed proposal.
Plan Your Trip