Arenal Volcano

How to Prepare for Hiking in Costa Rica - What to Pack, Expect & Avoid

10 Essential Tips I Wish I Knew:

 

                                         Picture of Costa Rica, Arenal Volcano

I just spent a week hiking in Costa Rica this July, and while the scenery was absolutely stunning—from volcanoes to lush waterfalls—there were some real surprises along the way. I did two main hikes: one around Arenal Volcano near La Fortuna, and another in Montezuma, which involved crossing rocky jungle streams barefoot. These short hikes (under 4 miles each) required totally different preparation.

 

                                  Picture of Costa Rica, Arenal Lake/Volcano

Here’s everything I wish I knew before hitting the trail in Costa Rica—from shoes and cell service to hydration and local trail etiquette.

1. Wear the Right Shoes and Clothes for the Terrain

Arenal Volcano Hike

I wore waterproof hiking shoes because rain was in the forecast. I brought gaiters with me in case i encountered rain. The trail was muddy and slick, but manageable with the right grip.

                                         Picture of Arenal Lake /Volcano

Montezuma Waterfall Hike

This one caught me off guard. I had to cross multiple rocky streams and ended up walking barefoot—it was painful and really slowed me down. I wish I had brought my water shoes or trail sandals with toe protection.

In both cases, quick-dry clothing was essential. Even short hikes can leave your clothes soaked, and nothing dries fast in Costa Rica’s humidity. Quick-dry shirts, shorts, and socks made a huge difference.

 

                                                 Picture of Montezuma Waterfall

 

Pro Tip: If your hikhttps://youtube.com/shorts/K7BSpSGHCSk?feature=sharee might involve water crossings, pack a second pair of shoes. Lightweight, quick-drying footwear (like water shoes or hiking sandals) will save your feet—and your day.

 

2. Pack Light but Smart

Because both hikes were short, I used the same small hiking backpack for each. It had just enough room for essentials.

What I Packed:

  • Hydration bladder & Backpack (2L)
  • Electrolyte powder
  • Dried fruit + granola bar
  • Poncho
  • Bug repellent & sunscreen
  • Dry bag (for phone and wallet)
  • Extra socks, microfiber towel, and quick-dry clothes

3. Rain Is Almost Guaranteed – Pack a Poncho

In July, Costa Rica is hot, humid, and rainy. I was glad to bring a poncho instead of a bulky rain jacket. It kept me and my pack dry, and folded small enough for a side pocket.

Bonus Tip: Bring a zip lock bag or waterproof pouch for your phone—even if it’s “water-resistant.”

4. Don’t Rely on Google Maps or Weather Apps

Locals warned us, and they were right: Google Maps and weather apps are unreliable.

Use These Instead:

  • Waze for driving directions
  • IMN (Instituto Meteorológico Nacional) or local news for accurate weather
  • Offline trail apps like Maps.me or Gaia GPS

Bonus Tip: Buy a Physical Road Map

If you're renting a car, a printed road map is a must. Why?

  • Few road signs, even at major intersections
  • Locals give directions using landmarks (e.g., grocery stores, churches)
  • If your phone dies, a paper map can literally save your trip

We often heard things like: “Turn left at the pulpería” or “go past the blue church.”

5. Cell Service Is Spotty – Have a Backup Plan

My hiking partners attempted to use local Costa Rican carrier eSIMs, but found out their dated phones and lower tiered models were not compatible with eSIM. Thankfully, my T-Mobile international plan worked—but signal was still inconsistent.

A Few Tips:

  • Download WhatsApp – it’s the go-to in Costa Rica
  • Use local WiFi—cafés and restaurants often share passwords, but suggest using VPN on these types of public WiFi networks
  • Download maps and directions before heading out

6. Satellite Services May Not Work

Devices like Garmin inReach or iPhones with SOS satellite may not work depending on your provider. Check your device's international coverage before relying on it.

7. Stay on Legal Trails & Respect Wildlife

Costa Rica protects its environment fiercely. Some trails are illegal or cross private land.

Always:

  • Ask locals, hotel staff, or Airbnb hosts before exploring
  • Avoid "secret" trails found online—they may be closed for conservation
  • Never feed or approach wildlife

I saw monkeys and my friends even spotted a puma crossing the road—they’re wild for a reason.

8. Hydration Is Key in the Humid July Heat

Even short hikes left me sweaty and dehydrated. Electrolyte powder saved me on more than one occasion.

Know the Signs of Dehydration:

  • Muscle cramps (feet, shins, or calves)
  • Lightheadedness or nausea
  • Dark urine, dry mouth, or decreased sweating
  • Confusion or extreme fatigue

Learn more about electrolyte imbalance and dehydration

Pro Tip: Start hydrated and sip often—don’t wait until you’re thirsty. Bring salty snacks or tablets to replace minerals.

9. Bug Protection Is a Must

Costa Rica has mosquitoes, ticks, and biting ants, especially near water.

What to Bring:

  • DEET or natural bug spray
  • Anti-itch wipes or cream
  • Long sleeves in dense jungle areas

10. A Quick Word on Foot Care

Crossing rivers barefoot in Montezuma wrecked my feet.

Pack These:

  • Small towel to dry off
  • Antiseptic wipes
  • Blister tape or moleskin

Costa Rica Hiking Essentials Checklist 

  • Waterproof hiking shoes / gaiters
  • Water shoes or trail sandals
  • poncho
  • Lightweight backpack
  • 2L hydration bladder or water flask
  • Electrolyte packets
  • Snacks (local fruit, trail mix)
  • Bug repellent
  • Sunscreen
  • Phone with offline trail maps
  • WhatsApp installed
  • Dry bag or zip lock
  • Basic first aid kit
  • Small towel and blister care
  • Printed road map of Costa Rica

View from end of Arenal Trail

Final Thoughts

Hiking in Costa Rica is absolutely worth the effort—the views, the wildlife, the jungle air—it’s magical. But the terrain, weather, and connectivity make it a unique challenge, especially if you’re coming from the U.S. or Europe.

Take it from someone who learned the hard way: a little prep goes a long way. Pack smart, ask locals for tips, and most importantly—respect the land you're walking on.

Pura Vida!

Elizabeth, Cofounder Hike This Supply

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