Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Hike, Mud Bath and Hot Springs
Active
10h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Immerse yourself in the wild volcanic landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on this day hiking tour. Take a 3-hour walk of moderate difficulty through the jungle, and along the way spot howler monkeys, capuchin monkeys, toucans, and coatis.
Walk alongside wheezing fumaroles, volcanic craters, and pools of bubbling mud, then cool off under the waters of the Oropendola Waterfall.
After recharging energy with a delicious lunch of Costa Rican cuisine, enjoy a relaxing soak in the hot springs and volcanic mud baths of Río Negro. Full-day hiking tour of the Rincon de la Vieja
Embark on a 3-hour hike through mud pools, fumaroles, and volcanic craters. Observe howler monkeys and capuchin monkeys in their natural habitat. Swim below the Oropendola Waterfall. Enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch.
Enjoy a relaxing soak in the Río Negro volcanic mud bath. Walk of moderate difficulty, suitable for all skills.
This small-group sightseeing tour offers you a more personalized experience.
Available options
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Hike, Mud Bath and Hot Springs
Pickup included
What's included
Rincon de la Vieja National Park entry
Lunch
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Hot Springs entry
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
The Rincón de La Vieja National Park is one of the most diverse ecological areas in the country. Around two volcanoes, Rincón (active) and Santa María (inactive), the park also houses an extraordinary display of local flora and fauna, while being part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, a World Heritage Site.
While plant life is impressive on its own, especially considering the huge concentration of purple orchids here, it is the concentration of volcanoes that truly amazes visitors.
The Rincón de la Vieja volcano gave rise to the name of the park and contains nine separate but contiguous craters. It is one of the five largest volcanoes in the Guanacaste region and is believed to be over a million years old. Despite being considered active, it has not erupted since the early 1980s. The park sees a lot of volcanic activity, including vents, fumaroles, and boiling clay pots, and has at least 32 rivers that flow down its sides.
There are a number of nature trails for guests, with some reserved for very experienced hikers. The most popular is the 2.5-mile La Pailas trail, which takes approximately two to three hours and is ideal for spotting wildlife, flora, waterfalls, and traces of volcanic activity. The most ambitious hikers can spend eight hours hiking to the top of the Santa María crater, from where you can see Lake Nicaragua on a clear day.
2
Relax in a Natural Pool in this beatiful place, swim in a clear water
What's not included
Alcoholic Beverages
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.0
4 reviews
5★
3
4★
0
3★
0
2★
0
1★
1
Tripadvisor
5.0
1 reviews
5★
1
4★
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3★
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Important information
Service animals allowed
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
About Liberia
Liberia, known as 'La Ciudad Blanca' for its whitewashed buildings, is the capital of Guanacaste province in Costa Rica. It serves as a gateway to the stunning Pacific beaches, national parks, and rural landscapes of the Northwest region. The city offers a mix of colonial charm, modern amenities, and easy access to some of the country's most beautiful natural attractions.
Top Attractions
Liberia Central Park
A charming park in the heart of Liberia, surrounded by historic buildings and colonial architecture. It's a great place to relax and soak in the local atmosphere.
Historical/Cultural
1-2 hours
Free
Liberia Cathedral
A striking white cathedral with a distinctive design, located in the heart of the city. It's a prominent landmark and a symbol of Liberia's colonial past.
Historical/Religious
30-45 minutes
Free (donations welcome)
Santa Rosa National Park
A protected national park known for its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests, mangroves, and beaches. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and learning about Costa Rica's natural history.
Nature/Adventure
Half-day to full day
Moderate (¢1,000-¢2,000 CRC entrance fee)
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
A stunning national park featuring volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for adventure activities like hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
Nature/Adventure
Full day
Moderate (¢1,000-¢2,000 CRC entrance fee)
Playa Hermosa
A beautiful beach known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Beach
Half-day to full day
Free (parking and rental fees may apply)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional breakfast dish made with rice and beans, cooked with onions, peppers, and spices. Often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian (if no meat is added)
Casado
A typical lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of protein (usually chicken, beef, or fish).
Lunch
Can be vegetarian or vegan with modifications
Arroz con Pollo
A flavorful rice dish cooked with chicken, vegetables, and spices. Often served with salad and tortillas.
Dinner
Can be made gluten-free
Chifrijo
A popular bar snack made with fried pork, rice, beans, and avocado. Served with tortilla chips for dipping.
Snack
Contains pork, can be made vegetarian with modifications
Popular Activities
Hiking
Horseback riding
Zip-lining
Wildlife watching
Beach lounging
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Visiting historical sites
Best Time to Visit
December to April
The dry season offers sunny weather, lower humidity, and optimal conditions for exploring the outdoors. This is the peak tourist season, with vibrant festivals and plenty of activities.
25°C to 35°C
77°F to 95°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English (in tourist areas)
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited elsewhere
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
GMT-6 (Central Standard Time)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe, but exercise caution
Liberia is generally safe for tourists, but petty crime can occur. Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night. Avoid walking alone in isolated areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas
Getting there
By air
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from city center
By bus
Liberia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Liberia. They are affordable and frequent but can be crowded.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown Liberia
El Coyol
San José
Day trips
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
20 km from Liberia • Full day
A stunning national park featuring volcanoes, hot springs, waterfalls, and diverse wildlife. It's perfect for adventure activities like hiking, horseback riding, and zip-lining.
Santa Rosa National Park
30 km from Liberia • Half-day to full day
A protected national park known for its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests, mangroves, and beaches. It's a great place for hiking, wildlife watching, and learning about Costa Rica's natural history.
Playa Hermosa
30 km from Liberia • Half-day to full day
A beautiful beach known for its golden sand and clear waters. It's a great spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
Festivals
Festival de la Luz • July
Fiestas Patronales • July
Carnaval de Liberia • February/March (before Lent)
Pro tips
- Visit national parks early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and see wildlife more easily
- Bring a reusable water bottle and refill it with filtered water to reduce plastic waste
- Learn a few basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and show respect for the culture
- Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for the warm climate, and don't forget sunscreen and a hat
- Book tours and accommodations in advance, especially during peak season and popular festivals
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
