Camino de Costa Rica Stage 1B
Stage 1B
Stage 1B starting kilometer: 30.9
Stage 1B ending kilometer: 54.6
Total distance: 23.7
Total elevation gain: 104 meters
Total elevation loss: 36 meters
Mar a Mar rating: Intermediate
Safety is the main concern on this stretch. Between Muelle Goshen and Cimarrones, reported crime has ticked up in recent years, so treat this section with extra care: hike with a companion or group whenever you can, don't travel after dark, and keep phones, cash, and jewelry out of sight. Stick to the lodging and campsites listed on this site rather than improvising, and never accept a ride or invitation from someone you don't know. Solo hikers — women in particular — should stay especially alert here. If anything feels off, or you want guidance before setting out, Asociación Mar a Mar can be reached at +506 6036-6199.
Terrain-wise, the walking itself is easy: 23.5 km of mostly level, wide roads through banana and pineapple plantations and cattle pasture. The difficulty comes from exposure — there's almost no shade, and daytime temperatures on this lowland stretch commonly climb to 32°C (90°F). Start as early as possible from Muelle Goshen to get ahead of the afternoon heat, and don't assume a flat route means an easy one, especially if you're used to a cooler climate.
Come prepared: carry a minimum of 2 liters of water plus electrolytes, and pack extra snacks, sunscreen, insect repellent, and sun protection for your head. Take breaks and top off your water at every opportunity — heat and humidity here can wear you down faster than the distance suggests.
Cimarrones Costa Rica weather
You can check the weather for Cimaarrones here.
Stage 1B lodging
- Casa Yolanda | 54.4 kilometers
- Casa Tamandua | 55.2 kilometers