Best trails in Braulio Carrillo National Park
Braulio Carillo National Park is located in the Central Volcanic Cordillera, the park is one of the largest protected areas in Costa Rica. It extends for almost 45,000 ha and includes seven different habits. The landscape has high mountains covered with forests, canyons, volcanoes and waterfalls.
This incredible landscape is home to more than 135 species of animals, 6,000 species of trees and plants and 500 types of birds. Visitors can see toucans, jaguars, tapirs and monkeys. Note that the poisonous Bushmaster snake is also found here.
The park's important feature is the orange stream, called Rio Sucio or "Dirty River", which gets its name from the sulfur deposits of the Irazú Volcano. There is plenty to do, including several hiking trails throughout the park.
Top trails
- (46)•Moderate•3.6 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrThis trail is located in the Braulio Carrillo National Park, a great place to enjoy nature with so many attractions and trails through the jungle. This route takes you to a small lake in the crater of the extinct Barva volcano. The road to get to the park is rough and a 4x4 vehicle is recommended. Please note that the trail marked on the map takes you to the park entrance. If you travel by bus, they will drop you off later. You will need to walk approximately 1.8 miles/3 km along the road to...
- (27)•Moderate•5.4 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrThe route to Laguna Copey passes through a cloud forest landscape, offering impressive views of the mountainous surroundings. As you go along, you can observe various birds and native plants. The lagoon is a small, cold-water lake with a calm, serene landscape, ideal for resting and enjoying nature. It is recommended to bring warm clothing due to the region's cool climate, appropriate footwear for walking on uneven terrain and water, and a camera to capture the scenic beauty and wildlife of...
- (26)•Moderate•4.2 mi•Est. 2.5–3 hrThe hike in the Cerro Dantas Wildlife Refuge offers an immersive experience in a cloud forest. The hike, of moderate difficulty, encompasses well-marked trails through dense forests, streams and waterfalls. Rich biodiversity can be observed, including birds, mammals and lush vegetation. Ideal for nature lovers, it is recommended to bring appropriate clothing, sturdy footwear and sufficient water.
- (14)•Moderate•2.9 mi•Est. 1.5–2 hrQuebrada González is a sector of Braulio Carrillo National Park. Known for its lush tropical rainforest, this area offers rich biodiversity and breathtaking scenery. The area has several well-marked trails, such as Las Palmas and El Ceibo, which allow you to explore the dense vegetation, streams, and waterfalls. Spotting various wildlife, including exotic birds, poison dart frogs, and monkeys, is possible. The climate is humid and cool, ideal for hiking and nature observation. To fully...
- (9)•Hard•3.3 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrThe route to Charquillo Waterfall and Cerro Turu in Costa Rica offers an exciting combination of adventure, nature, and breathtaking views. The first few kilometers are hilly terrain leading through lush tropical vegetation. The Charquillo Waterfall is a beautiful waterfall hidden in the forest, offering a perfect place to rest and enjoy the scenery. After visiting the waterfall, you can continue to Cerro Turu. The ascent becomes steeper and more challenging as you gain altitude. The trail...
- (4)•Easy•0.9 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrThe El Ceibo Trail is short but rich in biodiversity. This circular trail leads through a dense rainforest, home to various flora and fauna. Along the way, majestic trees such as the ceibo, which gives the trail its name, and orchids adorn the path. The terrain is humid and covered with leaves, which adds a touch of adventure. It is expected to spot birds, butterflies, and small mammals in their natural habitat. This trail is perfect for a short but immersive hike in one of Costa Rica's...
- (5)•Hard•5.9 mi•Est. 4–4.5 hrThe trail is an exciting adventure for hiking enthusiasts. With an altitude of approximately 2,030 meters above sea level, it offers breathtaking panoramic views of the mountainous landscape and biodiversity of the region. The trail passes through cloud forests, allowing you to observe local flora and fauna, including exotic birds.
- (7)•Hard•3.8 mi•Est. 3–3.5 hrThe tour offers a scenic hike that is full of biodiversity. The route begins at the base of the hill and ascends through trails surrounded by dry tropical forests, where birds, butterflies, and a wide variety of flora can be observed. The ascent to Cerro Chompique has panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. From the summit, the trail descends to the Delicias area, known for its pastures and streams. The tour combines nature, tranquility, and beautiful scenery, ideal for those seeking...
- (5)•Moderate•1.3 mi•Est. 0.5–1 hrThe Bosque Caricias trail, located in Costa Rica's mountainous region, offers a route full of exuberant nature, ideal for hiking and ecotourism. This route combines trails surrounded by dense vegetation, waterfalls, and panoramic views. It is perfect for those looking to connect with the natural environment. The forest is home to a rich biodiversity, including exotic birds, butterflies, and wild animals. It is a popular destination for hiking, bird watching, and photographing natural...
- (1)•Moderate•2.1 mi•Est. 1–1.5 hrThe route to Mirador Vara Blanca is a short but impressive hike. This trail offers spectacular panoramic views of the Central Valley and its surroundings, including the impressive La Paz waterfall. The trail traverses a mountainous landscape with lush vegetation, ideal for enjoying nature and taking memorable photographs. Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, and a camera are recommended to capture the scenic beauty of the viewpoint and its surroundings.
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Frequently asked questions
Where is the best place to hike in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
According to users from AllTrails.com, the best place to hike in Braulio Carrillo National Park is Barva Volcano, which has a 4.6 star rating from 46 reviews. This trail is 3.6 mi long with an elevation gain of 757 ft.
What is the longest trail in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
According to AllTrails.com, the longest trail in Braulio Carrillo National Park is Hike through Río Sucio. This trail is estimated to be 9.3 mi long.
How many trails are in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
There are 15 trails in Braulio Carrillo National Park. These trails have an average 4.6-star rating from 161 AllTrails community reviews.
Which trail has the most elevation gain in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
If you're looking for elevation gain, Braulio Carrillo National Park has you covered. Hike through Río Sucio boasts the most elevation gain with 2,713 ft of total ascent. The park's runner-up is Cerro Hondura, which will get you 1,978 ft of elevation gain.
Are there any trails with rivers in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there are 5 trails with rivers in Braulio Carrillo National Park, including Cerro Dantas Wildlife Refuge, Quebrada González, Braulio Carrillo National Park – El Ceibo Trail, Cerro Chompique and Delicias, and Hike through Río Sucio.
Are there any trails with scenic mountain peak views in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there are 7 trails with scenic mountain peak views in Braulio Carrillo National Park, including Charquillo Waterfall and Cerro Turu, Cerro Hondura, Cerro Chompique and Delicias, Tibás Hill, and Cerro Zurquí.
Are there any trails with cliffs in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a cliff in Braulio Carrillo National Park: Charquillo Waterfall and Cerro Turu.
Are there any trails with scenic viewpoints in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with scenic viewpoints in Braulio Carrillo National Park, including Copey Lagoon and Vara Blanca Viewpoint.
Are there any trails with lagoons in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with lagoons in Braulio Carrillo National Park, including Barva Volcano and Copey Lagoon.
Are there any trails with ponds in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a pond in Braulio Carrillo National Park: Copey Lagoon.
Are there any trails with volcano viewpoints in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there are 2 trails with volcano viewpoints in Braulio Carrillo National Park, including Barva Volcano and Copey Lagoon.
Are there any trails with lakes in Braulio Carrillo National Park?
Yes, there is one trail with a lake in Braulio Carrillo National Park: Hike through Río Sucio.
