Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja
Active
12h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
A full day tour exploring the flora, fauna and natural wonders of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. The day consists of a moderate 2-hour hike where you will see wildlife and volcanic activity. Next we will visit the Oropendola Waterfall where you can swim and play in the water. After the waterfall, it is time to eat a typical Costa Rican lunch following a trip to relax at the hot springs and enjoy a volcanic mud bath.
Available options
Self Drive/Meet at Park
Drive your Own Vehicle : Meet your guide at Rincon de la Vieja National Park at 9:00 am & follow our tour bus to Lunch and Hot Springs
Shared Transportation & Guide
Shared Tour - Max 15 people: Round trip Transport to/from JW Marriott, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia<br/>Pickup included
What's included
Hotel pickup and drop-off
National Park fees
Bottled water
Driver/guide
Lunch
Air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
National Park Hike
With our bilingual naturalist guide, you'll walk 3.5-km (2 miles) in Las Pailas circular path through the tropical forest to enjoy the best views of the volcano, incredible nature, volcanic activity, and wildlife. The park is home to more than 300 species of birds, and many other animals, such as armadillos, bays, iguanas, coatis and white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys, spider monkeys,
toucans, turkeys, and much more. You will stop to view the volcanic activity including bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and a mini crater.
The Las Pailas sector spectacularly shows the power of the Rincon de la Vieja volcano, the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Steam and sulfur come from natural fumaroles of the yellow and rusty soil. Witness clay pails in various shades of brown with boiling volcanic water, fine gray volcanic mud bubbles and explosions in large pails. This volcano is like no other in Costa Rica.
2
After the hike, take a short walk off the beaten path to Oropendola Waterfall just outside of the park, where you can jump in and swim in the blue lagoon.
3
Stop 3
Hot Springs & Volcanic Mud Bath
After lunch you will driven to the Hot Springs. Surrounded by tropical dry forest, the Río Negro (Black River) Hot Springs feature ten pools with thermal waters heated naturally by the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.The soothing mineral waters are crystal clear and all natural. Relax and enjoy luxuriating in our healing waters. You can also try our volcanic mud “bath”, where you smooth volcanic clay mud on your body!
4
6:40 AM
5
6 am - 7:45 am
6
Stop 6
Pass by
6:30 AM
7
6:30 AM
8
Stop 8
Pass by
6:30 am
9
7:00 am RIU Guanacaste/Palace
10
7:30 am
11
7:40 am
12
7:20 am
13
7:00 AM RIU Hotels
14
6:15 am
What's not included
Gratuities
Transportation from Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood, Las Catalinas, Waldorf Astoria
Towel - Please bring your own
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.7
323 reviews
5★
256
4★
41
3★
17
2★
3
1★
6
Tripadvisor
4.7
325 reviews
5★
264
4★
34
3★
18
2★
5
1★
4
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Vegetarian option is available, please advise at time of booking if required
Use "Special Requirements" field upon checkout to advise dietary information
A minimum of 2 people per booking is required, if you are a solo traveler please contact us
If you do not need transportation, please meet us at the entrance of the National Park at 9:00 am.
If your hotel is not listed, contact us for quoting
Due to a new requirement issued by the Ministry of Tourism and the National Park Systems of Costa Rica, we need each person to send us the following information: Full Name on Passport, Passport number, Passport issuing country. You must carry a picture of your passport with you on your tour!
Meeting point
7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Important notes
What to wear:
- Hiking: Comfortable hiking or walking shoes, light fresh clothing
- Oropendola Waterfall and Rio Negro Hot Springs - Bathing suit, flip-flops or sandals, please bring a towel
What to Bring:
- Refillable water bottle
- bathing suit
- change of clothes
- close-toed shoes that can get wet
- Flip Flops or Sandals
- Sunscreen
- Insect repellent
- Camera
- Towel
- Extra money for souvenirs
• Self Drive - Please meet at Pailas Sector Entrance of Rincon de la Vieja National Park at 9:00 AM Maps Link: https://goo.gl/maps/vGFUKJVsE7BBDLqA7
We Pick up from Hotels, condos and private residences in the following locations:
- Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM
- Langosta/Tamarindo: 6:30 AM
- Conchal (W/Westin, Reserva Conchal), Brasilitos: 6:45 AM
- Playa Grande, Flamingo, Potrero: 6:30 AM
- Las Catalinas: 6:15 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
- RIU Hotels Main Security Gate, Not the Lobby: 6:45 AM
- Playas del Cocos: 7:20 AM
- Playa Hermosa & Panama (Occ/Sects Papagayo, Villas Sol, Condovac, Mangroove): 7:30 AM
- Liberia Peri Supermarket: 8:30 AM
- Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood: 7:20 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
- Waldorf Astoria: 7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Pick up times above are an estimate. We will send you an official pick up time the day before the tour. Please be ready outside 10 minutes before your scheduled pick up time, but it can take up to 20 minutes longer depending on the day's pick up schedule and traffic.
If your hotel is not listed, please email us at info@nativesway.com to confirm your pick up location and time.
Special Notes
- A professional photo service is available for an extra fee
- We operate this tour rain or shine!
- In an effort to eliminate single-use plastic bottles on our tours, please bring a reusable water bottle.
- Lockers are available for a $5 deposit at the tour base, or you may leave your things in the van during the tour.
About Tamarindo
Tamarindo is a vibrant coastal town in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, renowned for its stunning beaches, world-class surfing, and lively nightlife. It's a popular destination for travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation in a tropical paradise.
Top Attractions
Tamarindo Beach
A long, sandy beach known for its great waves, perfect for surfing and sunbathing. The beach is lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
Beach
Half day to full day
Free
Playa Langosta
A quieter beach located just north of Tamarindo, known for its beautiful sunsets and turtle nesting sites.
Nature
Half day
Free
Las Baulas National Marine Park
A protected area for the endangered leatherback turtles, offering guided night tours during nesting season.
Nature
Half day to full day
Moderate
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gallo Pinto
A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice and beans, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).
Breakfast
Vegetarian
Ceviche
Fresh raw fish marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, and cilantro. Often served with tortilla chips or patacones (fried plantains).
Appetizer
Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free
Casado
A typical Costa Rican lunch dish consisting of rice, beans, salad, plantains, and a choice of meat or fish.
Lunch
Can be made vegetarian or vegan
Popular Activities
Surfing
Snorkeling
Hiking
Beachcombing
Sunbathing
Spa treatments
Local markets
Art galleries
Best Time to Visit
December to April
This is the dry season with plenty of sunshine, ideal for beach activities and outdoor adventures. The weather is perfect for surfing, snorkeling, and exploring the nearby national parks.
24-32°C
75-90°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: English
- English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Time Zone
CST (UTC-6)
Electricity
110VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Tamarindo is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions should be taken to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight.
- • Avoid walking alone at night, especially in isolated areas.
- • Use reputable tour operators and taxis.
Getting there
By air
- Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 40 km (25 miles)
By bus
Liberia Bus Terminal
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the most affordable way to get around but can be infrequent. They are best for short distances within the town.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Tamarindo Town
Langosta
Day trips
Rincón de la Vieja National Park
50 km (31 miles) • Full day
A stunning national park with volcanic activity, hot springs, and diverse wildlife. Offers hiking, waterfalls, and mud baths.
Las Catalinas
20 km (12 miles) • Half day
A charming, car-free coastal village with beautiful beaches, clear waters, and a relaxed atmosphere.
Festivals
Semana Santa (Holy Week) • March or April (dates vary)
Tamarindo International Film Festival • November
Pro tips
- Visit during the shoulder season for fewer crowds and lower prices.
- Rent a surfboard or take a surf lesson to experience Tamarindo's famous waves.
- Explore the local markets for unique souvenirs and handmade crafts.
- Try local street food for a budget-friendly and delicious meal.
- Book tours and accommodations in advance during peak season.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
