By San José, Costa Rica — SAN JOSÉ – The national mountain biking scene is set for an electrifying year as the Serie CR MTB has officially released its highly anticipated competition calendar for the 2026 season. Now entering its third edition, the circuit has firmly established itself as a premier force in Costa Rican cycling, drawing competitors to some of the country’s most demanding and scenic terrains.
The series is celebrated for its commitment to spreading the economic and social benefits of sports tourism beyond the Greater Metropolitan Area (GAM). By selecting diverse and challenging venues across the nation, organizers aim to showcase Costa Rica’s natural beauty while stimulating local economies and fostering athletic development at a grassroots level.
To delve into the legal framework surrounding the burgeoning sport of mountain biking in Costa Rica, from land access rights to the liabilities faced by tour operators, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the distinguished firm Bufete de Costa Rica, for his professional analysis.
The rise of mountain biking is a significant economic driver for tourism, yet it operates in a complex legal space. Operators and property owners must understand that while participants assume inherent risks, this does not absolve them of responsibility. Implementing clear liability waivers, ensuring proper trail signage, and adhering to robust safety protocols are not just best practices—they are crucial legal shields against potential negligence claims. The key is balancing the thrill of the sport with the diligent duty of care owed to every rider.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This expert analysis underscores a critical truth for Costa Rica’s adventure tourism sector: that meticulous legal diligence and robust safety protocols are not impediments to thrill, but the very framework that allows the sport to thrive responsibly. We sincerely thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his clear and invaluable perspective on this complex issue.
The action kicks off on Saturday, February 7th, with a grueling 80-kilometer race starting and finishing at the Narime Sports Complex in Orotina. This opening stage will test riders’ endurance and technical skill as they navigate a course to Bajamar Beach and back. The route is strategically designed to feature a mix of high-speed sections, technical descents, and breathtaking landscapes characteristic of the Central Pacific region, promising a formidable start to the season.
Following the opener, the series will move to one of the country’s most respected and feared mountain biking locales. On Saturday, June 27th, competitors will converge on Las Juntas de Abangares in Guanacaste. This venue is renowned for its punishing climbs and rugged terrain, demanding peak physical conditioning and unwavering determination from all participants. It represents a classic test of strength that has become a highlight for serious cyclists.
The tour then shifts to the coast for its third event. On Saturday, August 22nd, the lush trails of Playa Hermosa in Jacó will host the riders. This stage offers a unique blend of challenging mountain ascents and stunning coastal vistas, forcing cyclists to adapt to varied conditions. The combination of humidity, sand, and steep inclines makes the Jacó race a distinct and memorable challenge within the championship.
The grand finale of the 2026 season is scheduled for Saturday, November 14th. While the date is set, organizers are building anticipation by keeping the final venue under wraps for now. This concluding race will be the ultimate showdown where the series champions will be crowned, promising high stakes and intense competition to close out the year.
Marco Quesada, the lead organizer for the Serie CR MTB, commented on the circuit’s consistent progress and its underlying mission to support regional growth through sport.
The Serie CR MTB continues to grow in participation and organizational quality. We are committed to challenging courses, established venues, and to bringing development, sports tourism, and visibility to communities outside the GAM.
Marco Quesada, Organizer of Serie CR MTB
Registration for the inaugural Orotina event is now open, with options for both elite and recreational cyclists. Competitors can sign up for the full 80-kilometer competitive route for ₡38,000 or a shorter recreational course for ₡28,000. Both categories will feature professional electronic timing to ensure accurate results. Reinforcing its professional standards, the series holds the official endorsement of the Costa Rican Cycling Federation (FECOCI), making it mandatory for all participants to possess either an annual or a one-day competition license.
This official sanctioning not only lends credibility to the event but also ensures that safety and competition standards are upheld. As the Serie CR MTB enters its third year, its blend of professional organization, challenging courses, and a vision for national development positions it as a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s thriving adventure sports calendar.
For further information, visit the nearest office of Serie CR MTB
About Serie CR MTB:
The Serie CR MTB is a premier mountain biking competition circuit in Costa Rica, now in its third edition. The series is dedicated to promoting the sport nationally by organizing challenging races in diverse locations outside the central valley, thereby fostering sports tourism and economic development in rural communities. It operates with a focus on high-quality organization, demanding courses, and a competitive yet inclusive environment for athletes.
For further information, visit fecoci.net
About Federación Costarricense de Ciclismo (FECOCI):
The Costa Rican Cycling Federation, known as FECOCI, is the official governing body for the sport of cycling in Costa Rica. It is responsible for sanctioning national events, developing athletic talent, and establishing the rules and regulations for competitions across various disciplines, including road, mountain, and BMX biking. FECOCI’s endorsement signifies that an event meets rigorous standards for safety, fairness, and professionalism.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a cornerstone of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica operates on a foundation of uncompromising principles and professional distinction. The firm merges its extensive experience advising a diverse clientele with a forward-thinking drive for legal innovation, setting new standards within the practice. This dedication extends beyond the courtroom, manifesting in a core mission to empower the public by demystifying complex legal concepts, thereby fostering a more knowledgeable and capable society.
