Runners start · local time — ; from Stage 2 on, the start is around sunrise (exact times given at the briefing)
The Coastal Challenge is a six-day stage race along Costa Rica's southwest coast, starting in Quepos and finishing in Drake Bay on the edge of Corcovado.
The 23rd edition in 2027 covers 249 km with about 10,194 m of elevation gain in the Expedition category, and 135 km in the Adventure category.
Each day's course runs between 35 and 51 km, alternating between beach sand, river crossings, jungle climbs and fire-road sections.
Stage 3, The Queen Stage, is the longest and hardest at 51 km, from Playa Dominical to Marino Ballena.
On the last day you run a 37 km loop around the same camp area, followed by a party and awards.
Every night you sleep in your own tent at the same camp, but the organizers pitch it for you and provide hot meals and foot care.
Humidity is above 75% on many days, so your feet stay wet all day, and on many days the start is before sunrise.
Finishing depends less on pace than on how you manage heat, humidity and hydration.
Camps are outdoor spaces near beaches or lodges, with hot meals prepared by the organizers each morning and evening.
Late in the race there is also a ferry crossing through mangroves.
Switch to Adventure and you won't get a finisher medal.
