Miravalles volcano hike
Climb to the summit of Guanacaste’s highest mountain, Miravalles Volcano, on this very challenging one-day guided hike through grassfields, secondary forest, primary rainforest, cloud forest, and semi-paramo. Observe the diverse vegetation and wildlife as you ascend to the peak, where stunning views of both the Pacific and Caribbean sides of Costa Rica await.
Embark on an exhilarating journey to conquer the impressive peaks of Guanacaste’s highest mountain, Miravalles Volcano. Immerse yourself in the lush forest and stunning landscapes as you climb this unique trail straight to the summit. Observe the tall trees and changes in vegetation, and feel the fresh air as you hike. Listen to the sounds of birds, wind, and white-faced monkeys jumping from branch to branch in search of food. Welcome to Miravalles: a very challenging and very rewarding hike to the top of Guanacaste province.
| Travel Style: | Dynamic |
| Experience type: | Jungle & Local Community |
| Service level: | Guided activity |
| Physical rating: | Very Challenging |
| Age requirement: | +12 |
Why you’ll love this hike!
This hike starts from Guayabo, a small beautiful town located in the countryside of Guanacaste province. Thanks to a local family, you can access the only trail to the beautiful Miravalles Volcano, starting at the grass fields where you will likely see cows and horses roaming around. After the first kilometer, you will be entering the Miravalles National Park as well as the thriving secondary forest. The more you climb, the more changes in the forest you will see. This trail transitions from grass fields to secondary forest and then to primary rainforest, cloud forest, and semi-paramo, all thanks to the 2,028 m (6,654 ft) above the sea level elevation that allows for altitudinal impressive changes. When the weather allows for clear and sunny days, the view becomes spectacular, and at times allows you to see both the Pacific and Caribbean sides of Costa Rica along with a few majestic peaks of the Miravalles Volcano. Sometimes, you can even see other volcanoes from the top, including Rincón de La Vieja, Tenorio, and Arenal.
During the hike, you will likely see up close a wide variety of epiphytic plants, vines, lots of different tree species, and animals like cute little lizards, birds, and small mammals like the Central American agouti. The level of physical rating is more than compensated with the amazing views and the experience of transitioning from one type of forest to another as the elevation increases in this rewarding hike to the summit of Miravalles Volcano.
Is this hike right for you?
This hike is very challenging and recommended for people who love to hike and push themselves. If you consider yourself an active person who loves challenges, this hike is for you. For this full-day trip, you should bring your own snacks and drinks to maintain the energy that you need to keep enjoying the abundant vegetation and beautiful fauna found along this trail. The farther you hike up the volcano, the more vibrant the forest gets. Avid hikers express how absolutely beautiful and impressive the forest and the views are! To enjoy this spectacular hike, make sure you are prepared with the excitement, outfit, and food for an average of 8 hours of trekking to the top of Guanacaste!
Details of this hike
- Total distance: 6.5 kilometers or 4 miles
- Average duration: 8 hours total
- Included in the activity: Local tour guide from the communities around the volcano.
- Language: Tour guide speaks Spanish and English.
- Meeting point and transportation: When you book this beautiful hike, rest assured that we will provide via email the exact meeting point in the town of Guayabo, as well as the arrival time and transportation options.
- Safety precautions: Bring hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, at least 3 liters of water and proper hiking shoes since the trail can be slippery at times.
- Gear and equipment: Please bring a hat, sunscreen, mosquito repellent, at least 3 liters of water, and proper hiking shoes, as the trail can be slippery at times.
- Gear and equipment: Please bring comfortable footwear and sport clothing, a backpack to carry water and snacks, a water bottle or camelback, and a rain jacket. Hiking poles are optional but not necessary. We recommend a light jacket to wear at the top of the volcano for when you are enjoying the views, lunch, and inspired conversations, although depending on the day, it may not be totally necessary.
- Group size and composition: Group sizes vary from 2 up to 15 people composed of different ages and fitness levels. If you would like to quote this as a private hike for just you and your fellow travelers, please get in contact with us so we can arrange a more customized hiking experience!
- Food and drinks: Please make sure to bring your own favorite snacks and drinks to keep yourself hydrated and energized for this exciting hike to the summit of Miravalles Volcano.
Overall, the Miravalles Volcano Hike is a challenging but extremely rewarding experience for active individuals who love pushing themselves to new heights. From the lush forests and diverse wildlife to the stunning views at the summit, this hike is truly an unforgettable adventure. With a knowledgeable local guide and safety precautions in place, you can enjoy this exciting journey with peace of mind. So pack your backpack, bring your favorite snacks and drinks, and get ready for an exhilarating journey to the top of Guanacaste’s highest mountain!
