Península de Nicoya Mal País to Cabo Blanco Coastal Ridge

This gnarly coastal traverse follows ridgelines above Mal País beach through primary dry forest that connects Cabo Blanco Absolute Nature Reserve to inland monkey corridors. The route threads between massive strangler figs and follows cattle paths that howler monkeys have used for centuries, with technical rocky descents to hidden coves where sea turtles nest. You’ll navigate around massive cecropia trees and cross seasonal streams that cut deep arroyos during rainy season, all while staying above the crashing Pacific surf.

Moderate difficulty requiring high-clearance 4×4 with good approach angles for the rocky beach sections. Dry season (December-April) is mandatory – wet season turns this into an impassable mud bog. No permits needed but respect private ranch gates and carry your own water since there are no reliable sources. Best camping spots are on bluffs overlooking turtle nesting beaches, where you’ll fall asleep to howler monkey calls and wake to scarlet macaw chatter echoing through the forest canopy.