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Due to the weather conditions in Costa Rica, a hiker must consider the rain factor and take: plenty of socks, raingear and a jacket. There are stores in San Jose that specialize in camping and hiking equipment, but they are more expensive than in the U.S. or other countries.

The main threats to hiker's safety in Costa Rica are: dehydration, sunstroke, weather conditions (cold and the rain), snakes. All of the points, except the last one are common in hiking situations everywhere.

Of 135 snakes that are present in this country, only seventeen are poisonous, but people must still take some precautions. For example, hikers should never hold on to branches or logs without looking first. They should also wear appropriate boots that cover part of the leg.

Even though hiking isn't as developed as other sports like bicycling, birdwatching, deep-sea fishing or surfing, it's starting to evolve rapidly through local and foreign tour agencies.

Many hotels that are located in rural and natural areas have taken the initiative of hiring a guide for hiking trips. Many hotels located around volcanoes like the Arenal, Poas or Turrialba, offer walks around the volcano or even up to the crater.

Whether you're hiking in a rainforest, near a volcano or along the coast, you will encounter stunning natural sites in Costa Rica. Hiking is a good option for getting to know the country at a closer level than from the window of an air-conditioned bus. Just remember to take all the necessary objects to assure you a safe and comfortable trip.

Costa Rica has enough trails to keep serious hikers stepping for a long time, and the scenery those routes pass ranges from lowland rain forests to brisk mountain valleys.

The routes themselves are as varied as the scenery, ranging from invigorating jaunts in the mountains near San José to backpacking adventures that lead you into the heart of the country's wilderness.

Nearly all of Costa Rica's national parks have short trails that can be hiked in an hour or two, while others have routes that take the better part of a day to complete, such as the trails to the top of Barva and Rincón de le Vieja Volcanoes.

Santa Rosa, Corcovado and Chirripó National Parks have longer backpacking routes, which require several overnights in tents or Parks Service cabins. There are also plenty of well marked hiking trails in the country's growing number of private reserves.

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