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Chirripo - La Amistad
Both parks span the most biologically diverse area
in Costa Rica and comprise the largest unspoiled forest
in the country. An astonishing number of habitats-produced
by the differences in altitude, soil, climate and
topography-can be found, including paramos, marshlands,
oak forests, madrono forests, fern groves and mixed
forests.
One
of Chirripo's most important geomorphological discoveries
is that of various glacial forms which have been preserved
almost intact. There are small U-shaped glacial valleys,
morrain deposits, lakes and cirques, shaped by the
action and movement of the ice masses as much as 30,000
years ago.
Chirripo's
Peak is the highest mountain in the country, soaring
to a height of 3,821 meters. The paramos of this elevation
contain many varieties of stunted Andean-type woodland,
consisting of shrubs, grasslands and perennial herbaceous
plants. One of the most common species found here
is the batamba. The largest trees include oak, sweet
cedar, nargusta, elm, Poas magnolia, ira, cypress
and manni.
The
fauna is astonishingly varied, with 263 species of
amphibians and reptiles and about 400 types of birds
observed to date. The largest concentration of tapirs
in the country can be found here, plus the puma, jaguar,
ocelot, jaguaroundi, white-lipped peccary and cacomistle.
The
most noteworthy birds include the resplendent quetzal,
crested eagle, red-tailed hawk, volcano hummingbird,
black guan, crowned wren-thrush, elegant trogon and
acorn woodpecker. Some of the most common amphibians
and reptiles are the lizard and mountain salamander.
Taken
together, the parks are estimated to be home to more
than 60% of all the vertebrates and invertebrates
in Costa Rica.
Special Activities
Most arriving at Mt. Chirripo do so to challenge the
16 km hike to the summit, Central America's highest
peak. Depending on weather conditions and your physical
fitness, most climbers allocate either 2 or 3 days
for the hike, roundtrip. The first two days are spent
climbing to the summit while the third day is set
aside for the descent. As with any climb of this nature,
prepare yourself properly and expect unpredictable
weather conditions. Warm clothing, rainwear, hiking
boots, a sleeping bag, flashlight, food and sufficient
fluids are a necessity.
The climb, particularly the first day, is quite steep,
therefore, the surrounding temperature plunges quite
dramatically. This temperature shift is relected in
the local flora and fauna.
On
a clear day, the view from the summit is nothing short
of spectacular. Weather permitting, both the Atlantic
and Pacific Ocean's are visible simultaneously. A
cold lake at the summit provides a welcome relief
after the long hard climb.
For
those with additioanl personal belonging, leave them
at the park ranger station before departing on your
hike. The park rangers will gladly keep an eye on
your personal belongings for you while you are hiking.
How To Get There
Comfortable public buses depart hourly from San Jose
to San Isidro. Buses to San Gerardo de Rivas (Mt.
Chirripo), from San Isidro depart twice daily, early
morning and mid afternoon. The majority of the road
in unpaved and steep. Several small stores are situated
along the road where you can purchase last minute
items before your hike. |
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Surfing
Snorkeling
