My husband and I are avid long distance hikers and would love to hike the Camino de Costa Rica. As teachers, our main holidays fall mid December-mid January (3 weeks) and during the summer time (late June-early/mid August (6-7 weeks). However, we would like to hike this trail when the weather is most advantageous for us so are flexible to wait and complete the trip at a later date. Which time of year (months) are optimal? Having hiked the length of South Korea (nearly 800km) this summer is 40+C weather made for some early mornings on the trail and long afternoons napping and swimming. However, we would rather not feel as though we are 'racing the sun' and isntead enjoy the beauty of Costa Rica as we complete this 15 day trek.
Emma
If you get a chance you shoukd get the recently published guide book on Amazon https://www.amazon.com/-/es/Evan-Brashier/dp/1737139308
This group of young Costa Ricans offers small group expeditions you could consider getting an itinerary from them and seeing if that works for you. They know all the cool things along the route to interact with local people and have great experiences.
I would say you could do it in their 11 day offers.
Thanks for the response that is great to hear! We are generally used to hiking around 20km per in 40degree heat and closer to 30 in milder climates. Trekking through jungles etc means for slower walking of course, and we want to enjoy ourselves and the villages and what is on offer as we walk each day. given that information how many days do you think we should plan for hiking and also are there things that are ‘must dos’ on the trail or in the area to add in extra days? Ending on the beach would be a great celebration for sure!
Thanks for the response that is great to hear! We are generally used to hiking around 20km per in 40degree heat and closer to 30 in milder climates. Trekking through jungles etc means for slower walking of course, and we want to enjoy ourselves and the villages and what is on offer as we walk each day. given that information how many days do you think we should plan for hiking and also are there things that are ‘must dos’ on the trail or in the area to add in extra days? Ending on the beach would be a great celebration for sure!
Emma, So glad you are interested. Late June through mid July is actually a good time. There is usually a nice window if good weather around early July called “ veranillo de San Juan”. But even if you miss that window, weather is ok morning through mid afternoon, then it rains snd evenings can be lovely. The beginning and end will be hot and humid but much of the rest of the trail ok. It is also greener and animals more active than in the dry Jan- April time. The Atlantic weather system is different from the Pacific so rainy afternoons in a part of the trail should be expected any time of the year.
I hope that’s helpful.