The most frustrating part of hiking Chirripó can come long before climbers hit the trail, as reserving a spot in the national park can sometimes be a confusing task. Now, after some delay, park officials say they are ready to roll out new phone lines, and will soon unveil an online platform, to make reservations to climb Costa Rica’s tallest peak.

The Amistad-Pacific Conservation Area (ACLAP) and the National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) have come together to offer an easier way for both national and international tourists to access Chirripó National Park, according to a SINAC press release.

Starting Monday, climbers can make their reservations for April, May and June. Travelers coming from within Costa Rica can call 905-Chirrip (905-2447747) to reserve a spot in the park, while international travelers can call (506) 2742-5348. The phone lines will be open Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m. and 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.

Starting May 15, users can go onto SINAC’s website at www.sinac.go.cr to make their park reservations online to visit the park in July.

Together with the Environment Ministry (MINAE) and the people of San Jerónimo, the national park just unveiled a new route in January from the sleepy pueblo that straddles the park to the southwest. To make reservations to visit the park through San Jerónimo and not San Gerardo, travelers should contact San Jerónimo’s tourist association (ATURENA) at (506) 8374-3443 or by email at [email protected].

Contact Michael Krumholtz at [email protected].