Camino de Costa Rica Stage 5

Stage 5

Stage 5 starting kilometer: 88.2 KM

Stage 5 ending kilometer: 101.4

Total distance: 13.2 kilometers

Total elevation gain: 517 meters

Total elevation loss: 257 meters

Mar a Mar rating: Beginner

Stage 5 is 13.2 km (8.2 miles) and starts at Finca Tres Equis, where Stage 4 leaves off. After the climbs and river crossing of Stages 3 and 4, this one is easier going, though it still carries roughly 500 meters of cumulative ascent.

Leaving the finca, you're immediately on the shoulder of Route 10, a paved and fairly busy road. Walk single file, facing traffic, and use the sidewalk when it's there. There's a resupply option down a side road on the right into the town of Tres Equis if you need it. Stay on Route 10 for 2.1 km until you reach Restaurant El Cruce, then turn left onto Route 413 toward Pacayitas.

Tip: If you want to avoid Route 10 entirely, spend the night before at Casa de Eric y Fer. They can provide a short ride to El Cruce, where the trail leaves the road behind.

From there the road turns to gravel and the pace of the day changes. Aside from the climbs, the grades are gentle, and the views open up: sugar cane fields, pastures, and views of Turrialba and Irazú volcanoes and the Pacuare River below. Little shade means an umbrella is worth carrying even on a clear day.

Pacayitas marks the official end of the stage and has lodging of its own, but many itineraries continue 7 km further to Silencio, where other popular lodging options are located.

Stage 5 lodging

• Finca ViaLig | 101.2 kilometers
• The Hiker House | 109 kilometers (this is technically in Stage 6)