San Gerardo de Rivas

Introducing San Gerardo de Rivas

The road to San Gerardo de Rivas winds its way 22km up the valley of the Río Chirripó. The road is paved for the first 10km or so; after the town of Rivas, however, it is a gravel road that is bumpy, narrow and steep. The ‘center’ of San Gerardo – as it is – consists of the ubiquitous soccer field and the pulpería opposite. Otherwise, there’s not much to this village – just the family-run farms and cabinas that are strung along this road.

The backdrop to this village scene is the rushing Río Chirripó and the rocky peak of the same name. The river is fierce in these parts, crashing over cliffs and boulders as it tumbles down the mountain. It’s breathtaking, alpine scenery, though at this altitude (1350m) it’s often cloudy. Temperatures are noticeably cool and birdlife is bounteous.

While most travelers to San Gerardo are on their way up Cerro Chirripó, you don’t have to climb the mountain to be able to walk around with your head in the clouds. Cloudbridge Nature Preserve is a perfect alternative for those who don’t have the time (or energy) to go all the way to the summit. And even a simple stroll around the village provides a cool reprieve from the coastal heat.

Last updated: Feb 17, 2009