Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike & Crystal-Blue Swimming Adventure
Active
5h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
This tour is a complete Costa Rican adventure in one day. Hike through the Pailas Sector of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, discovering bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and tropical forest trails with a certified local guide. Enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch in the charming village of Curubandé, experiencing authentic local flavors in a family-run soda. Then, continue to Poza Los Coyotes, a hidden paradise with crystal-blue waters, where you can swim, relax in the lazy river, explore a small canyon, or take the thrill of cliff jumping. This guided experience perfectly blends adventure, culture, and nature, offering a full day of unforgettable memories.
Available options
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano Hike & Crystal-Blue Swimming Adventure
Pickup included
What's included
Local tour guide
Bottled water
Private transportation modern A/C Van for your group
Entrance fees
CR fruits and snacks
Complete traditional Costa Rican lunch
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the Pailas Sector of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park. Walk among steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and surreal volcanic landscapes that make this place truly unique. Along the trails, your certified guide will reveal fascinating secrets about the volcano, the tropical dry forest, and the incredible wildlife that calls this area home. This easy-to-moderate hike blends nature, adventure, and discovery an experience you won’t find anywhere else in Costa Rica.
2
Traditional Costa Rican Lunch in Curubandé
After the hike, travelers will enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local soda (family-owned restaurant) in the village of Curubandé. The meal typically includes a hearty casado: rice, beans, fresh salad, plantains, a choice of chicken, beef, pork, or fish, and homemade tortillas. Everything is prepared with authentic flavors and served in a warm, rustic setting that reflects the true essence of Costa Rican hospitality. It’s the perfect way to recharge and experience local culture like a Costa Rican.
3
Continue the adventure at Poza Los Coyotes, a hidden natural gem with crystal-blue waters. Walk along a short trail to discover a small canyon carved by the river, perfect for stunning photos. For thrill-seekers, there’s the chance to try cliff jumping into the refreshing pools, while those looking to relax can enjoy a lazy river tubing ride through calm, scenic stretches. End the visit with a refreshing swim in the turquoise waters, surrounded by the beauty of nature an experience that blends adventure, relaxation, and unforgettable landscapes.
What's not included
Guests are welcome to bring their own alcoholic drinks. The van is stocked with a cooler and ice to keep them cold.
Available languages
Guide guide
PT
EN
FR
ES
Reviews breakdown
Tripadvisor
4.9
21 reviews
5★
19
4★
2
3★
0
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
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
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
