Mountain biking

More than 80 mountain bike routes of varying degrees of difficulty are available in Costa Rica for cycling fans. The enthusiasm in the country is growing steadily and cycling events are taking place all year round. Among the most important are the National Cup (Copa Nacional), the National Championship (Campeonato Nacional), the National Championship for Mountainbiking (Campeonato Nacional de Ciclismo de montaña), the Sun Route (Ruta del Sol), the Endurance Cup, the Vulcano Challenge (Reto De los Volcanes), the Route of the Conquerors, the International Costa Rica Tour (Vuelta Internacional a Costa Rica) and the Women's Tour (Vuelta Femenina).

There are several routes in the Central Valley, the North and the Caribbean and the South. From cross country to downhill to freeride, there is something for every taste.

The canton Turrialba, known for various archaeological sites, is one of the best zones for mountain biking and is the starting point for a trip to the Caribbean coast. After about 16 hours drive on a moderate to extreme route you reach the beautiful Caribbean coast.

South of Turrialba is the Cerro de la Muerte, which means the mountain of death. With an altitude of 11,322 feet (3,451 meters), it is the highest point of the Inter-American Highway, which connects Panama with Mexico, and a special challenge for every cyclist.

In the north, around the volcano Arenal there are several beautiful itineraries. Take a trip around the great Lake Arenal to see the imposing giant from afar and get to know the surrounding villages.

In the Canton of Sarapiquí, you pass between the villages through fascinating rainforest, surrounded by howler monkeys, colorful butterflies and singing birds. The difficulty is medium on flat terrain with some hills.

In the South Pacific you can take a mountain bike tour through the spectacular rainforest of the Piedras Blancas national park and, with a bit of luck, you see a jaguar in its natural habitat. You can also visit the villages La Gamba or Valle Bonito and drive to the waterfall Chorro. This tour is easy due to the flat plain and suitable for families.