A Dirty Adventure Around the Nicoya Peninsula

I am now convinced that bike touring on the Nicoya Peninsula will lead to nothing short of an adventure. Lee and I set out to try and cobble together an interesting route circumnavigating the Nicoya Peninsula in Nortwest Costa Rica. Although the gravel roads and ridiculously steep rocky dirt tracks proved themselves much more challenging than anticipated, the peninsula offered many shiny gems amongst its rough and dusty terrain. Over the course of 6 days we were covered in dust and dirt as we discovered some interesting off-road tracks, beach routes, remote camp spots and surprise experiences on this wild Pacific outcropping. Details are in the photos:

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Highlights

• Conchal beach – a hidden gem.
• Ostional – One of the most important turtle-nesting beaches in the world.
• Stretch of beach road on the Southwest corner during low-tide.
• Hidden ‘tracks’ strewn throughout the peninsula.

The Ups

• One can reach some really nice remote and beautiful places on a bike.
• Some of the off-beaten-path riding is superb for dirt lovers.
• You can find nice places to camp on beaches… gratis.
• Plenty of opprtunities for adventure if you can talk to the locals with a little español.

The Downs

• This time of year, the dust can be overwhelming; may be a better to visit at the end of the rainy season.
• Groceries, restaurants and places to stay are expensive. USA expensive.
• Without being able to ask questions to the locals, you may find yourself lost on many occasions; the maps are a little off.

For more information on this route, including GPS and logistics, click here. Also, check out our growing list of bikepacking and dirt road touring routes.