Cerro Chirripó, Mountain summit in Talamanca Range, Costa Rica

Cerro Chirripó is the highest peak in Costa Rica, reaching 3,821 meters above sea level within Chirripó National Park. The mountain displays different plant and animal life across its elevation, changing noticeably as you climb higher.

The earliest known inhabitants of the Chirripó area were the indigenous Cabécar people. In 1904 Agustín Blessing Presinger became the first recorded European to reach the summit. The first official trail was built in 1965, leading to a small sheet-metal hut five kilometres from the peak; Chirripó National Park was created in 1975, protecting 500 square kilometres around the mountain.

The name Chirripó comes from indigenous Costa Ricans and means "land of eternal waters", referring to the many lakes and streams around the mountain. The Cabécar people were the earliest known inhabitants of the area. Since 1953 the mountain has hosted an annual uphill race, in which the best competitors reach a shelter on the route in two hours.

Advance permits and reservations are needed before visiting, with overnight stays available at a shelter near the summit that accommodates a small number of people. Prepare for changing weather and steep trails, as the climb requires physical fitness and proper planning.

On clear days, visitors can see both the Pacific Ocean and the Caribbean Sea from the summit, viewing opposite sides of Costa Rica from a single location. This rare view connects two major coastlines across the country's width.