Chirripó National Park search continues for missing tourist

Search and rescue operations are underway in Costa Rica's Chirripó National Park to locate Reinaldo Pineda Lizano, a 58-year-old man reported missing in the mountains. As of August 12, 2026, Pineda has been missing for two nights.

According to reports, Pineda separated from his group in the Valle Los Conejos sector, located approximately 2,800 meters below the summit, after attempting to move ahead of his companions. This was noted as his first visit to the Chirripó peak.

The National System of Conservation Areas (SINAC) has deployed 15 brigadists, supported by logistics personnel and specialized mountain paramedics. The search is concentrated on four strategic routes: Ventisqueros – Lago San Juan, Cerro Pirámide, Las Morrenas (the last known visual contact point), and Herradura – Urán – Chirripó.

The operation is being coordinated under the Incident Command System (SCI) and involves the Costa Rican Red Cross, the Chirripó Rural Community Consortium, and various local rescue and tourism associations. Additional rescue teams are being mobilized to assist in the search efforts.