Guanacaste and Northwest , Costa Rica

Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Guided Hike

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About this experience

Come join us for a guided hike in the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park! When you arrive at our adventure center, we'll take you on a 25-minute drive to the edge of the park. Once there, your guide will introduce you to this incredible natural area, which was designated a World Natural Heritage site by UNESCO in 2005. The park is home to one of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica!

During the hike, we'll follow an accessible trail through the forest and discover various natural attractions, including giant strangler ficus trees, a seasonal waterfall, the "little volcano," smoking fumaroles, and the famous boiling mud pots, also known as "Las Pailas." Keep your eyes peeled for local wildlife such as armadillos, collared peccaries, black iguanas, boa constrictor snakes, white-nosed coatis, howler monkeys, white-faced capuchins, spider monkeys, toucans, and tapirs.

The trail is 2.5 miles (3.5 km) long and will take approximately 2.5 hours.

Available options

Rincon de la Vieja Volcano Guided Hike

What's included

Drinking water to fill up your own bottle

Snacks

Local trasportation to/from our Operation Center

Tour Guide

Entrance Fee

Detailed itinerary

Our naturalist guide will meet you at our Operations Center, and you will drive in one of our minivans for about 30 minutes to the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. The tour includes the entrance fee to this amazing protected area. You will hike on the main trail for about two and a half hours, during which you will have the opportunity to spot wildlife, enjoy the mystique of the forest, and be amazed by the different volcanic attractions, such as boiling volcanic mud, fumaroles, and the little volcano. After visiting this amazing National Park, you will enjoy a snack before heading back to our operations center on a 30-minute ride.

What's not included

Alcoholic beverages

Tips for guides

Available languages

Guide guide

EN ES

Important information

Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Meeting point

Our Adventure Center is located 8 kilometers (5 miles) from the Pan-American Highwayon the main road to the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano. We have plenty of parking spots, an open bar & restaurant and a refreshing swimming pool for all our guests.

About Guanacaste and Northwest

Guanacaste and Northwest Costa Rica is renowned for its stunning Pacific beaches, lush national parks, and vibrant cultural heritage. This region offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and authentic Costa Rican experiences, making it a top destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and rich traditions.

Top Attractions

Rincón de la Vieja National Park

This national park is home to the active Rincón de la Vieja volcano and offers a variety of eco-tours, including hiking, mud baths, and waterfall jumps.

Nature Half to full day USD 10-15 for entrance

Las Baulas National Marine Park

This park is a critical nesting site for the endangered leatherback sea turtles. Visitors can witness nesting season from October to February.

Nature 2-3 hours for a guided tour USD 15-20 for a guided tour

Santa Rosa National Park

This park is known for its historical significance in Costa Rica's fight for independence and its diverse ecosystems, including dry tropical forests.

Historical Half to full day USD 10 for entrance

Must-Try Local Dishes

Gallo Pinto

A traditional Costa Rican breakfast dish made with rice, beans, onions, peppers, and spices, often served with eggs, tortillas, and natilla (sour cream).

Breakfast Vegetarian

Ceviche

A fresh seafood dish made with raw fish or shrimp marinated in lime juice, mixed with onions, peppers, cilantro, and sometimes tomatoes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood, can be made gluten-free

Chifrijo

A popular bar snack consisting of a base of rice, beans, and pork or chicken, topped with pico de gallo and avocado.

Snack Can be made vegetarian or vegan

Popular Activities

Zip-lining Waterfall rappelling Hiking Surfing ATV tours Beach lounging Yoga Spa treatments

Best Time to Visit

December to April

This is the dry season, offering ideal conditions for beach activities, wildlife viewing, and outdoor adventures. The weather is sunny and warm, with minimal rainfall.

25°C to 35°C 77°F to 95°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Spanish
Widely spoken: English (especially in tourist areas)
English: Moderately spoken in tourist areas, limited in rural areas

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Time Zone

CST (UTC-6)

Electricity

110VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Guanacaste is generally safe for travelers, with low crime rates and a welcoming atmosphere. However, petty theft and scams can occur, especially in tourist areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Use reputable tour operators and taxis
• Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night

Getting there

By air

Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport • 10 km from Liberia

By bus

Liberia, Tamarindo, Santa Cruz

Getting around

Public transport

Buses are the most common and affordable way to get around. They are reliable but can be crowded during peak times.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, DiDi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Tamarindo Nosara Liberia

Day trips

Playa Conchal

20 km from Tamarindo • Half day

A stunning beach known for its unique shell-covered shoreline and clear waters, perfect for swimming and snorkeling.

Palmares Wildlife Refuge

30 km from Nosara • Full day

A beautiful wildlife refuge offering hiking trails, wildlife viewing, and scenic views of the Pacific coast.

Hacienda Guachipelin

30 km from Liberia • Full day

An adventure park offering a variety of activities, including zip-lining, waterfall rappelling, and horseback riding.

Festivals

Fiestas de Guanacaste • July Tamarindo International Film Festival • November

Pro tips

Visit during the shoulder seasons (May-June, September-November) for fewer crowds and lower prices
Hire local guides for a more informative and authentic experience, especially when exploring national parks and wildlife refuges
Learn basic Spanish phrases to enhance your interactions with locals and gain a deeper understanding of the culture
Pack light, breathable clothing and plenty of sunscreen, as the region's climate is warm and sunny year-round
Respect local customs and traditions, and be mindful of your impact on the environment and local communities