has anyone gone "off the map" in costa rica jungles???
Replies: 27 - Last Post: Nov 28, 2012 1:52 PM Last Post By: vtrioreau90
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has anyone gone "off the map" in costa rica jungles???
hello fellow thorn tree travellers, im planning a two week adventure in costa rica (particularly in the deep jungles) and was wondering if anyone has gone "off the map" there before? im trying to go beyond what typical tours usually offer. im looking to do jungles, beaches, volcanoes, scuba diving and anything in the adventure style. any advice on must-see places, and lesser known places or any tips on things i should keep in mind would be great. thanks2
With the exception of singular guided trails most of the southern region jungles are "off the map". As a clue, during a PR visit to Corcovado, a Government minister walked just 100m from the press group and it took them 3 DAYS to find him and get him out!....there have been a number of survival shows based on getting just short distances through that environment...its a serious place.3
Within sight of San Jose to the east and north is Braulio Carrillo National Park, complete wilderness, some unexplored.Barva Ranger Station is the starting point to climb to the small lake in the crater of the dormant Barva Volcano. From the summit, hikers can either loop back to the village of Porrosati or, for those who have a permit, guide, and fours days worth of food, continue north to La Selva. This trail extends from 2,906 meters above sea level atop Volcán Barva down to 36 meters elevation at La Selva, in Sarapiquí in the Caribbean lowlands. It’s a lengthy and arduous hike that may take several days and is recommended only for experienced hikers with suitable equipment. Take an Instituto Geográfica map and a compass, plus high-quality waterproof gear and warm clothing, and—of course—sufficient food and water. You can camp. This trail can also be accessed from Puesto Magsasay or Puesto El Ceibo which would shorten it a bit.
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unless you have the skills of bear grylls, i wouldn't try the "off the map" thing. there are many remote locations, such as the osa peninsula mentioned by boomer, that will give you the wilderness experience - but in such a way that you will be safe. a couple of years ago, a young man from chicago went hiking on the trails in one of the national parks - and was never seen again. speculation is that he got off the trail and was hopelessly lost.you can check this list of national parks - some of them are pretty wild and not crowded at all: http://www.costarica-nationalparks.com
in the north, the guanacaste conservation area encompasses several national parks: http://www.acguanacaste.ac.cr/1997/principaling.html
you can camp in some of the parks and a few, such as santa rosa, have small cottages for rent.
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I ran a turtle conservation project on Punta Burica in Alto Guaymi. That is a very off grid place, once you get beyond Pavones, and Punta Banco you are totally off grid. Must take care with hiking on the beaches while tide is rising as you could be stuck between a rock and a wet place. From the beaches, it's all uphill into the jungle mountains and no marked trails. Need to take care to stay in Costa Rica as it's easy to wander into Panama. Anyway, I don't recommend hiking in the CR jungles without a guide. These suggestions should be taken with precaution as your safety is your number one priority.Pura Vida, Ballardo
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@boomer1im one of those people who have seen those shows lol. i did the machu picchu trek 3 years ago and im starting to realize that jungles in costa rica are a whole different ball game. i dont have the experience to venture the way i would like to, but i would still like to push the limits alittle!
thanx for the heads up, i needed it
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@jaguarman_corcovadothanx for the response. its nice to hear advice from a local who knows the ares well. i will definitely be taking guided tours wherever i end up. i do not have any jungle experience at all outside the machu picchu trek and i wouldn't take the risk. i do watch a lot of survivor man though lol
do you have any favourite places i should keep in mind for my travels? ruins maybe?
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saplan,If your interested in ruins, you might be interested in the mysterious stone spheres found in the Osa. There are many around Palmar, and also in the Drake Bay / Caño Island area. These stone spheres are now being considered for UNESCO status. Very interesting, but no one really understands what they are or how they came to be.
Pura Vida, Ballardo
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Whenever I go too far "off the map"...I usually get lost ...And have to deal with lots of people who don't speak English...and may not like me being there...and there are lots of dogs that don't like the way I smell...
Remember...even Burton, Stanley and Wallace had "guides" when they went "off the map"...!
I find that taking small tours...with guides...to less popular places...is about all the adventure I can handle...
Or hire a car or means of transport...to take you to a place you want to see... But never underestimate the advantages of having someone who knows the area and speaks the language...
Just my personal opinion...but based on some experience..
