I have had many “spiritual” experiences throughout my adventures in Costa Rica, but maybe none more profound than when I made the ascent to the summit of Cerro Chirripo. Chirripo is Costa Rica’s highest peak. I made the climb with my daughter, Michelle, which made it all the more rewarding. At the end of the two day ordeal to reach the top and then come back to earth she made the comment to me that it was “the most difficult thing she had ever done”, but also, that “it was worth it.” The Chirripo experience is deep and rewarding on many levels. Of course there is the incredible nature that you experience as you past through different eco-systems that survive at various levels of altitude. There is the feeling of triumph that you were able to endure the 13 hour ascent and 8 hour descent. There is the magic of waking up in the morning at the base camp (Base Crestones) and actually witnessing the marvel of ice formations in a country so close to the equator. There is the view of both oceans at the summit if you are lucky enough to see it on a clear day in all directions. There are the 12 lakes that give birth to the mighty rivers of Chirripo Atlantico and Pacifico, among others. There is the amazing quiet and peacefulness of being somewhere that few people ever get to see. If you are brave enough and healthy enough to make it to the top, I suggest taking a few moments, closing your eyes and thanking whomever you believe created all this natural wonder for the experience! Anyone interested in a spiritual Chirripo experience may want to visit my Moment on the Mountain site and sign up for a trip.
- Altitude: 3,820 meters (12,228 feet)
- Location: Talamance Mountain Chain
- 38th most prominent peak in the world
- 4th highest peak in Central America
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