Cerro de la Muerte Hotels in Costa Rica

Stay in the Amazing Cerro de la Muerte!

Cerro de la Muerte (Summit of Death), is a 3,491-meter mountain massif nestled within the heart of the Talamanca Range, straddling the provinces of Cartago and San José in Costa Rica. This majestic peak, accessible via the Inter-American Highway is a realm of chilly temperatures (ranging from 1°C to 13°C) and stunning landscapes adorned with oaks and cloud forest highland vegetation. Historically, Cerro de la Muerte served as the arduous pedestrian route for pioneers venturing towards El General Valley in the south. Legend has it that many succumbed to the harsh cold, leading to the mountain’s ominous name. Today, a modern highway traverses the area, transforming it into a haven for ecotourism and nature enthusiasts. The region boasts exceptional birdwatching opportunities, particularly for the Resplendent Quetzal. This breathtakingly beautiful bird, revered as a divine entity by the ancient Aztecs and Mayans, finds its ideal habitat in Cerro de la Muerte’s high-altitude cloud forests. Several comfortable lodges have been established in the area to cater to the growing number of visitors seeking to witness this avian wonder and also immerse themselves in the cool mountain scenery.

Best Things to Do in El Cerro

Quetzal Watching

High in Cerro de la Muerte, unique vegetation of oaks, bamboo, and ferns thrives. This cool, misty haven shelters colorful birds like the Resplendent Quetzal, revered by ancient cultures. Get ready for an unforgettable encounter on your guided trail! Your gateway to Cerro’s wonders awaits at Savegre Hotel—an ideally situated hotel in Cerro for exploring the many trails to look for the quetzal.

Birding Tours

Cerro de la Muerte beckons birdwatchers with its endemic species. Join a birding tour to spot the iconic Quetzal and a dazzling array of other cloud forest residents, from wrens and warblers to fiery-throated hummingbirds. One of the best accommodations in El Cerro is Dantica Lodge, a convenient place to the captivating Costa Rica bird watching experiences.

Hiking Trails

Cerro de la Muerte offers diverse hikes, ranging from 5 to 15 kilometers. Enjoy stunning scenery, lush vegetation, and wildlife encounters amidst colorful orchids, bromeliads, and fungi. Hike from the 3,000-meter paramo down to lush cloud forests dominated by oaks. Centrally positioned for unforgettable hiking tours at Cerro is Paraiso del Quetzal, which is a comfortable and cozy lodge.

Cultural Tours in Cerro

Coffee Tour in Santa María de Dota

Immerse yourself in the world of coffee at Coopedota, a coffee growers’ cooperative in Los Santos. This unique tour goes beyond the bean, showcasing the entire coffee journey through cultivation, processing, and sensory experiences. Coopedota offers a deeper understanding and appreciation for the craft, making it ideal for true coffee enthusiasts. We highly recommend a hotel in El Cerro, Trogon Lodge, a very comfortable and centrally located starting point for nature and cultural activities.

Local Home Lunch with Doña Silvia & Don Martin Salazar

Nestled in the Talamanca Range-Amistad National Park, a World Heritage Site, is the little village of Siberia. Here, you’ll be invited to enjoy a meal and lively conversation with Doña Silvia and Don Martin Salazar. A meal at the Salazars might include some of Silvia’s favorites such as: Pollo Marinado, garlic marinated chicken with the ‘tico secret sauce’ lizano; Picadillo de Papaya Verde, (best served with a handmade tortilla); and finished off with Arroz con Leche! Buen Provecho! The talented duo also produces a very fine blackberry wine from their own farm located at 8,200 feet and love to share a glass with guests over a meal.

Wildlife Observation in El Cerro

El Cerro is a haven for wildlife enthusiasts, offering diverse habitats and a plethora of fascinating creatures and unique vegetation to observe. Here’s a glimpse into what awaits you:

• Mammals: White-faced Capuchins, Coati, Cacomistle, and Tapir
• Birds: Resplendent Quetzal, Long-tailed Silky Flycatcher, Flame-throated Warbler, Volcano Hummingbird, Talamanca Hummingbird.

How to Get to El Cerro

El Cerro is about 100 km (60 mi) from the capital city of San José. Our advice is to hire a Private transfer by bus with us. It takes about two hours.

Visit El Cerro with Costa Rica Sun Tours

Whether you yearn for exhilarating hikes, a captivating birdwatching tour, or a delicious home-cooked lunch, El Cerro promises an unforgettable experience. Contact us today and let us craft your perfect itinerary in Costa Rica’s highest mountain range.