La Ruta Adventures, a unique travel agency that puts together some of the most exciting trips to Latin America, is better known for La Ruta de los Conquistadores -one of the most grueling mountain bike circuits in the world. La Ruta de los Conquistadores is billed as “More than a race, a personal growth journey”, as it takes competitors from Playa Jaco up to the Carara reserve and down to the Valley of Turrubares. From there it goes way up to the Irazu volcano, around the Turrialba, and through the grasslands of Siquirres until the finish line in Limon.

La Ruta de los Conquistadores is a grueling affair for even the most hardened adventurers; an event that must not be entered by beginners. For the rest of us, La Ruta has thoughtfully put together an adventure that is accessible for those who do not qualify as ironmen or ironwomen.

The Jungleman Trail-Run is an ultrarunning event that is available in different flavors suitable for all nature lovers, as well as for most runners, walkers and adventurers. Racers can choose from distances of 5k, 10k, half marathon, and full marathon.

The starting line for all runners is Playa Tamarindo. For those running the full marathon, crossing the surfing spots of Langosta, Avellanas, Playa Negra and Junquillal is required before reaching the turn-around point. The beaches on the Jungleman route are some of the most scenic in Costa Rica.

A Race for Nature Lovers

On the official press release for the event, Roman Urbina -of the owners of La Ruta Adventure- explained that the Jungleman Trail-Run is a “race for appreciating Nature. There isn’t a single meter of asphalt or cement; it’s all on the beach.”

Running on soft sand may sound pretty inviting, although racers should keep in mind that parts of the route will include negotiating coral reef and river crossings.

This event will be covered by Trail Runner Magazine, and features some big names in adventure racing, such as Kurt Lindenmuller, a German-Tico runner who finished second in the Ultra Marathon in Brazil earlier this year. Kurt would have taken first place if not for a nasty spill that forced him to slow down for the final 30 kilometers. Kurt will represent Costa Rica in the insane Death Valley Ultramarathon later this year.

There is still time to register for the Jungleman Trail-Run, as the race will take place on March 30^th. Racers must be at least 18 years old to participate. Visit La Ruta’s Facebook page for more information.