Entrance into this tribal territory is prohibited by law, as well as disrespectful to the local culture, unless accompanied by a local guide. It is a wild, spectacularly beautiful section and potentially dangerous. The trail goes through primary forest lands over a rocky, muddy, difficult track with massive roots, huge boulders and fords a river that can be difficult in times of high water, and all under a dense, high canopy. GPS connection will at times be unavailable. The trail is at times very difficult to follow and is totally unmarked. Getting lost in this region can result in dire consequences! There are also poisonous snakes, plus spiders and bullet ants that have extremely painful bites and the keen eyes of local guides are required to spot these or know where to look.
The guide services MUST be set up in advance with Leo Martinez +506 8504-3216, Osvaldo Martinez +506 8670-3201, or Clenet +506 8528-3475.
Most hikers choose to combine stages 3 and 4. If they are combined, the indigenous guide can be hired for the entire distance from Las Brisas to Finca Tres Equis thereby precluding the need to arrange a second guide to continue through Ganaderia Tres Equis.
Hiring of a local guide is required to camp at either Escuela las Brisas or within Nairi Awari, and to cross the Indigenous territory ahead. This must be arranged in advance. Contact Karina at +506 8440-7639, Osvaldo Martinez at +506 8670-3201, Leo Martinez at +506 8504-3216, or Clenet Perez at +506 8528-3475. to hire a guide and to arrange a rendezvous. The guide will set you up at the campsite and guide you through the territory the next day. Be sure to specify your guide, lodging, and meals request well in advance as the supply of guides is limited.
NOTE: It is strongly recommended that hikers combine upcoming stages 3 and 4. To do so, be sure to make that known at the time that you make your arrangements for your Indigenous guide who will accompany you through to the entrance of the Tres Equis Farm ahead. Be sure to also make your upcoming lodging arrangements at Finca Tres Equis, or beyond, at this time. The Ganaderia Tres Equis Farm just beyond Rio Pacuare is pastureland for bulls. While the Indigenous guide is quite capable of getting you through this area safely, you should NOT attempt to do so on your own!
