FAQ
UrriTrek is the only certified company authorized to operate Camino de Costa Rica, complying with all regulations and requirements set by the Costa Rican government through the Costa Rican Tourist Board (ICT). We specialize in long trekking, and our guides are fully certified naturalists.
UrriTrek specializes in long-distance trekking experiences, a novel concept in our country. Here, we recognize that a "camino" is more than just the trail you hike; it's an ongoing journey that resonates throughout your entire life with each step you take.
A path of 280 km (175 mi) full of adventure, open to the entire world, that traverses Costa Rica from the Atlantic to the Pacific through rural communities, different ecosystems, indigenous cultures, new culinary experiences, extraordinary variations of flora and fauna, forests, valleys, and beautiful rivers. A way to help the small towns of Costa Rica grow harmoniously with their stories and their environment.
Please write to us through our form in the Contact section.
Email: reserve@urritrek.com
Phone: +506 6023-5507
"Urritrek" is a unique term comprising two elements. “Urri, and Trek”. The first part, "Urri," originates from the language of our esteemed brethren, the Cabecar people. In their language, "Urri" signifies the giant anteater bear, a species tragically extinct in Costa Rica. We selected this term purposefully, as it embodies our steadfast belief in humanity's capacity for transformation — a collective shift towards safeguarding the diverse array of life on our planet for the benefit of future generations.
You can book a tour through our website by selecting your desired tour and following the booking process. Alternatively, you can contact our customer service team for assistance.
- Credit or Debit Card: You can make the down payment using a valid credit or debit card. Please note that a 5% processing fee applies.
- Wire Transfer: For wire transfer payments, contact our Reserve Agent for official details. Additional charges may apply from destination and intermediary banks.
- Final Balance: The remaining balance can be paid in cash to avoid bank fees, or through credit/debit card or wire transfer.
We accept various payment methods, including major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express), PayPal, and bank transfers.
Our payment policies require an initial $500 +TAX down payment, with the balance due upon arrival in Costa Rica. If you wish to adjust the initial amount or make an extraordinary payment before the trek, this is allowed.
- Tour Cancellation by Urritrek: Full refund of the initial $500 if Urritrek cancels the tour.
- Minimum Participant Requirement: Full refund of the $500 if you cancel before the tour meets the minimum requirement of 4 participants.
- Tour Cancellation After Minimum Requirement: The $500 initial payment is non-refundable once the tour meets the minimum participant requirement.
- Health-Related Cancellations: Option to reschedule with the $500 payment held as credit for future travel.
- Protection for Other Participants: The $500 payment ensures tour viability for other participants.
- Cancellation During the Tour: No refund if you end the tour early. We recommend travel insurance for full tour reimbursement.
Check our: refund policy and more.
Booking is welcome at any time, but confirmation is required no later than two months prior to the trek.
Each day begins with breakfast at the accommodation, followed by a hike averaging 14 to 16 kilometers. Expect to learn about the Pura Vida culture, local flora, fauna, and enjoy diverse culinary experiences with breathtaking views.
Yes, all tours are fully guided, as required by our insurance policies.
- Transfers from San José to the Caribbean Coast
- Boat transfers at Canal Goshen
- Three meals a day
- A mix of accommodation including family projects, hotels, cabins, cabanas, and lodges
- Certified guide and indigenous Cabecar guide
- Camping gear (Matt, pillow, sleeping bag, tent)
- Entrance fees to private areas
- Luggage transportation between stages
- Accident insurance
- Evacuation protocol in case of accident
- Camino de Costa Rica Passport
Yes, three meals a day are included, with accommodation in cabins, hotels, camping, and local houses. Shared rooms are standard, with single supplements available in some areas.
Except for one day tours, which do not include accommodation.
Standard Tours are not customizable if you join dates with other hikers. Private options are available for customized tours.
For All Stages:
- Hiking shoes or trekking boots
- Socks for tropical weather
- Quick-dry shorts or pants
- Quick-dry shirt
- Hat or cap
- Optional sunglasses
- Sun umbrella (optional)
- Trekking poles
- Insect repellent
- Sunscreen
- Medicine
- Raincoat
- Flashlight
- Bath towel
- Bath suit
For Day Backpack:
- 2 liters of water
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Snacks
- Personal first aid kit
Special Requirements for Stage 3:
- Long pants for insect protection
- Snake guards (optional)
- Quick-dry underwear for river crossings
- Sandals for river crossings or lightweight water shoes
- Long sleeve shirt
- Extra snacks
- Small towel
There is no specific best time; preferences for weather vary. Consult our chart for general suggestions to help you decide.
Yes, the Camino de Costa Rica is designed for various fitness levels:
- 8 Days (Essential): Ability to walk an average of 14 km per day, max 20 km.
- 11 Days (Advanced): Ability to walk an average of 25 km per day, max 32 km.
- 14 Days (Challenging): Ability to walk an average of 20 km per day, max 27 km.
- 16 Days (Moderate): Ability to walk an average of 17.5 km per day, max 25 km.
Essential equipment includes:
- Soft hiking boots with ankle support
- Dry-fit clothes
- Trekking poles
- Camel bag
- Personal sleeping bag (optional)
Yes, we rent trekking poles for $20. Replacement fees apply if they are damaged or lost.
The tour includes transfer from San José to the starting point at Caribbean Coast.
- "Pura Vida": A versatile phrase meaning “pure life,” reflecting the Costa Rican attitude toward life.
- Warm and Friendly People: Costa Ricans are known for their hospitality.
- Respect for Nature: Eco-friendliness is a core value.
- Rich Coffee Culture: Coffee is a significant part of Costa Rican culture.
- "Casado": A traditional meal including rice, beans, plantains, salad, and protein.
- Diverse Traditions: Includes festivals and celebrations reflecting local culture.
- Family-Oriented Society: Family is central to Costa Rican life.
- Focus on Education and Peace: Emphasis on education and a peaceful way of life.
- Traditional Music and Dance: Music and dance are integral to cultural events.
- Diverse Linguistic and Ethnic Heritage: A mix of influences enriches the culture.
- Emphasis on Well-being: Costa Rica is known for its focus on health and happiness.
Urritrek provides Umbrella Travel Insurance for accidents but not death. Personal insurance for comprehensive protection is strongly recommended. Optional travel insurance is available for an additional cost of $180.
Guides are certified in first aid and follow safety protocols for accidents and wildlife interactions.
- Confirm primary courses and boosters are up to date as recommended for life in Britain - including for example, seasonal flu vaccine (if indicated), MMR, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions.
- Courses or boosters usually advised: none.
- Other vaccines to consider: Diphtheria; Hepatitis A; Rabies; Tetanus.
- Selectively advised vaccines - only for those individuals at highest risk: Hepatitis B.
- Yellow fever vaccination certificate required for travellers aged 9 months or over arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission with the addition of Tanzania and Zambia in the African region; the exception of Argentina and Panama in the Americas; and the following specifications for the following countries: Colombia (the entire country except Bogotá (the capital), Barranquilla, Cali, Cartagena, Medellín, and San Andrés Providencia); Ecuador (applies only to Morona-Santiago, Napo, Orellana, Pastaza, Sucumbíos, and Zamora-Chinchipe); Paraguay (the entire country except Asunción (the capital)); Peru (the entire country except Lima (the capital), Cajamarca, Cuzco, Lambayeque, Machu Picchu, Ruta de los Incas, Piura, Tumbes); Trinidad and Tobago (the entire country except the urban areas of Port of Spain (the capital), and for travellers in transit or whose itineraries are limited to the island of Tobago).
Urritrek is committed to supporting local communities through various initiatives:
- Economic Support: By involving local businesses and families in our tours, we help generate income and provide economic benefits.
- Cultural Preservation: We work with indigenous and local communities to preserve their cultural heritage and traditions.
- Community Projects: A portion of our profits is reinvested into community development and environmental conservation projects.
Urritrek is dedicated to environmental sustainability and responsible tourism:
- Tree Planting: For each tour, we plant a tree to contribute to reforestation and offset our carbon footprint.
- Waste Reduction: We implement waste reduction practices and encourage minimal waste production during our tours.
- Eco-Friendly Accommodation: We select eco-friendly accommodations that adhere to sustainable practices.
- Local Sourcing: We prioritize locally-sourced food and products to reduce environmental impact and support local economies.
We encourage our guests to follow these practices to reduce their environmental impact:
- Pack Light: Bring only what you need to minimize the weight and waste.
- Use Reusable Items: Opt for reusable water bottles, utensils, and containers.
- Follow Leave No Trace Principles: Respect natural habitats by packing out all trash, staying on designated trails, and minimizing disturbances.
- Support Local Businesses: Purchase souvenirs and services from local vendors to contribute directly to the community.
Mar a Mar is a non-governmental organization (NGO) that oversees the development and conservation of the Camino de Costa Rica. Urritrek collaborates with Mar a Mar by:
- Financial Support: Donating 2% of our profits to Mar a Mar to support their conservation and community development initiatives.
- Joint Projects: Participating in and promoting projects led by Mar a Mar that focus on environmental and community sustainability.
Urritrek is committed to the protection of wildlife and natural environments:
- Wildlife Awareness: Guides are trained to handle wildlife encounters respectfully and safely.
- Protected Areas: We adhere to regulations for protected areas and follow best practices to minimize our impact on wildlife.
- Environmental Education: We educate our guests about the importance of conservation and responsible behavior in natural areas.
