The Chirripó, the highest mountain in Costa Rica at 3,821 meters (12,536 feet) above sea level, is located in Chirripó National Park and is noted for its ecological wealth. The mountain was named “Chirripo,” meaning “land of eternal waters”, by Native Americans because there are many lakes and streams around the mountain.
Photos by Ivan Meza on Facebook August 2019.
The great height of Mount Chirripó relative to its surroundings is also evidenced by its particularly high topographic prominence. It is the 37th most prominent peak in the world. On clear days it is possible to see across the country from the Pacific Ocean to the Caribbean Sea.
Climbing Chirripó is possible by obtaining a permit from the National Park office in San Gerardo de Rivas. From the trailhead, the summit can be reached via a 19.5-kilometer (12.1 mile) hike.
To visit the Chirripo, visit first Chirripo.org.
