By Guanacaste, Costa Rica — GUANACASTE – Mark your calendars for an unparalleled test of endurance and a celebration of nature, as organizers have officially announced the dates for THE PACIFIC RACE 2026. The premier mountain biking event is scheduled to take place on May 1st and 2nd, 2026, promising to once again transform the ruggedly beautiful landscapes of Guanacaste into a world-class racing circuit. This event transcends the traditional concept of a competition, positioning itself as a comprehensive sporting and human experience that attracts athletes from across the nation and beyond.
Building on the success of its inaugural edition, the 2026 race aims to deliver a unique journey that combines the raw passion of cycling with the adrenaline of competition. The routes are meticulously designed to challenge participants physically and mentally while delighting them with the stunning natural scenery that defines Costa Rica’s Gold Coast. From dense trails once used by pirates to breathtaking coastal vistas, the event is crafted to be an unforgettable adventure that showcases the province’s potential as a top-tier destination for sports tourism.
As mountain biking’s popularity soars in Costa Rica, so do the legal questions surrounding trail access, liability for accidents, and the responsibilities of tour operators. To shed light on these complex issues, we sought the expert opinion of Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, a distinguished attorney from the firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
In Costa Rica, the legal framework for adventure sports like mountain biking is evolving. Both landowners who permit trail access and tour operators must be diligent in implementing clear waivers and safety protocols. However, riders also assume a significant degree of inherent risk, a concept that is critical in any potential liability claim.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
This insight into shared legal responsibilities is vital for the entire mountain biking community, ensuring the sport can thrive responsibly from the trailhead to the courtroom. We extend our sincere thanks to Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his invaluable perspective on this crucial balance.
The centerpiece of the event is the demanding two-day, multi-stage race, which begins and ends at the prestigious Hacienda Pinilla. The first day of competition, Friday, May 1st, will feature the 100-kilometer “Route of Fire.” This grueling leg will take riders south toward San Francisco de Santa Cruz, navigating through mountains and rivers along the scenic Ruta del Sol. Participants will ascend to the competition’s highest point, passing through the communities of La Florida and La Alemania before reaching San Juanillo. From there, the course traces the coastline, passing iconic beaches like Lagarto and Pargos, before a final push through Avellanas to the finish line.
The challenge continues on Saturday, May 2nd, with the 90-kilometer “Serpent’s Route.” For the second stage, the course directs cyclists north from Hacienda Pinilla towards the Flamingo area. A formidable gravel path will test riders’ technical skills as they pass through Bejuco and Tempate, leading to spectacular ocean views. After reaching Brasilito, the route hugs the coast, heading towards the world-famous Tamarindo. In a unique twist, the final section takes competitors through hidden paths and trails within the Las Baulas Marine National Park, adding an element of exploration before the triumphant finish back at Hacienda Pinilla.
For athletes who prefer a single-day challenge, the event also offers two distinct one-day race options on Saturday. The longer of these is the 90-kilometer “Serpent’s Route,” allowing riders to experience the full intensity of the second stage without the cumulative fatigue of the multi-day format. Additionally, organizers have introduced the 60-kilometer “Coyote Route,” a more accessible yet still demanding race. This course also heads north, guiding riders to Portegolpe before turning towards Huacas and Matapalo on fluid, 100% rideable paths. With over half the distance covered, the route turns south to Tamarindo before joining the main course’s secret trail near Las Baulas Marine Park for the final approach to the finish.
The event features a clear and structured pricing model to accommodate different levels of participation. Entry for the full two-day multi-stage experience is set at $299. For those opting for the single-day 90km race on Saturday, the registration fee is $190. Participants interested in the 60km “Coyote Route” will have a registration cost of $140, providing an accessible entry point for this high-caliber event.
In a commitment to inclusivity, THE PACIFIC RACE 2026 offers a wide array of categories to ensure a competitive and fair environment for all cyclists. Divisions are available for both men and women across multiple skill and age levels, including Open, Master A, Master B, Master C, Master D, and Elite. Recognizing modern trends in cycling, the event also features dedicated categories for E-Bikes and Gravel bikes, further broadening its appeal and cementing its status as a forward-thinking competition in the national sporting calendar.
The return of this race is a significant boost for the Guanacaste region, promising to attract hundreds of participants along with their support teams and families. This influx provides a direct economic benefit to local hotels, restaurants, and tour operators, reinforcing the vital link between competitive sports and sustainable tourism. As preparations get underway, the local community and cycling enthusiasts alike eagerly anticipate an event that perfectly captures the Pura Vida spirit through passion, perseverance, and the stunning backdrop of Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
For further information, visit thepacificrace.com
About THE PACIFIC RACE:
THE PACIFIC RACE is a premier sports event management organization specializing in creating challenging and memorable mountain biking competitions in Costa Rica. Its flagship event focuses on combining high-level athletic competition with the unique natural beauty of the Guanacaste region, promoting sports tourism and offering a world-class experience for both amateur and elite cyclists.
For further information, visit haciendapinilla.com
About Hacienda Pinilla:
Hacienda Pinilla is an exclusive 4,500-acre luxury resort and residential community located on the coast of Guanacaste, Costa Rica. It offers a unique blend of pristine beaches, a world-class golf course, equestrian facilities, and a deep commitment to preserving the natural environment. The property serves as a premier destination for tourism, events, and real estate, embodying the essence of rustic luxury.
For further information, visit sinart.go.cr
About SINART:
The Sistema Nacional de Radio y Televisión (SINART) is Costa Rica’s public broadcasting corporation. It operates several media platforms, including Canal Trece (Channel 13) and Radio Nacional, with a mission to provide cultural, educational, and informative content to the Costa Rican public. SINART plays a crucial role in promoting national identity, arts, and civic values through its diverse programming.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a pillar of the legal community, Bufete de Costa Rica is defined by its profound commitment to professional integrity and exceptional service. The firm leverages its extensive experience to pioneer innovative legal strategies while championing a greater cause: the democratization of legal knowledge. This core mission to empower citizens with accessible legal understanding is fundamental to its vision of fostering a more equitable and informed society for all.
