Chirripó National Park Regulations
Chirripó National Park (PNCH) has implemented an official public use regulation that includes new rules to preserve this invaluable natural space. Starting on January 15, 2023, these rules aim to ensure a safe and environmentally respectful experience for all visitors. Below, we present the most important aspects of this regulation, including new provisions and key rules.
Registration and entry hours
First, it is important to mention that the option for tourists to register on the same day of entry to the park has been reactivated, but only at 8:00 a.m. This registration must be done in person and is mandatory. After this time, entry will not be allowed, even if the visitor has a reservation. On the other hand, all those who registered the day before will be able to access the protected area in the early morning hours.
Visitors can start their hike from any of the three designated trails from 3:00 a.m. onwards. The descent must begin no later than 12:00 p.m. to ensure the safety of hikers and respect the established schedules.
For those who wish to do the Chirripó Express or a one-day tour via the San Gerardo route, entry will be allowed only from 3:00 a.m. at the point known as “El Límite” (located at kilometer 4). It is important to clarify that Chirripó Express is not a tour to see the sunrise at the summit of Cerro Chirripó but an opportunity to explore the various ecosystems along the route.
Mandatory requirementsduring the hike
Among the new provisions, each visitor must carry a personal whistle throughout the hike, as it is a mandatory requirement. This item can be very useful in emergency situations.
Additionally, park rangers have the authority to inspect and, if necessary, confiscate bags, backpacks, sleeping bags, or other personal packages. This is done to prevent the entry or exit of prohibited items, animals, plants, substances, or objects from the protected area.
It is important to note that any visitor who disobeys the instructions of park rangers, guides, or volunteers may be sanctioned. This includes immediate expulsion from the protected area without any responsibility from the administration, as well as the possibility of being banned from entering the park for up to one year.
Drone use in the park
For those wishing to fly a drone in the park, it is mandatory to obtain authorization from the administration. They must also present a copy of the license issued by Civil Aviation. This requirement ensures that drone use does not interfere with wildlife, visitor privacy, or the tranquility of the natural environment. You can read more about this topic on our blog here.
Additional rules for a safe visit
- The entry, transport, or consumption of substances containing alcohol, drugs, or other substances is not allowed.
- Throwing, burying, or leaving material, waste, or trash within the park boundaries is not allowed.
- Building rock piles or cairns (apachetas), also known as landmarks, along the trails is not allowed.
- Placing stickers, images, symbols, or any other type of accessories not authorized by the Administration of the La Amistad Pacific Conservation Area is not allowed.
- Making bonfires or starting fires is not allowed.
- Cooking, heating, or processing food with gas stoves or other means, inside or outside the PNCH, is not allowed.
- Graffiti on any structure is not allowed.
- Climbing on the rocks known as Crestones is not allowed.
- The use of horns, speakers, or sound players, both on the trails and at the refuge, is not allowed.
- Walking outside the established hours, walking on unauthorized trails, and walking off the trail are not allowed.
- Entering the ASP without completing the required registration with the PNCh administration the day before your entry is not allowed.
On the other hand, here is a video with more recommendations for climbing Chirripó that will be very helpful. We also invite you to check out our blog on What to Bring to Chirripó?
