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Rincón de la Vieja National Park: A Volcanic Wonderland

Explore Costa Rica's Rincón de la Vieja National Park: Volcanoes, hot springs, hiking, and wildlife in a stunning natural setting.

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Discover Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Costa Rica, home to the active Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, diverse ecosystems, and unique volcanic features like boiling mud pots and hot springs. Explore the park's trails and experience the beauty of Costa Rica's natural wonders.

A brief summary to Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja

Local tips

  • Purchase tickets online in advance through SINAC to ensure entry.
  • Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on doing a longer hike.
  • Wear appropriate clothing, including a hat, sunscreen, and comfortable hiking shoes.
  • Consider visiting the Rio Negro Hot Springs near the main entrance for relaxation.
  • Be aware that the Santa Maria entrance requires a 4x4 vehicle due to road conditions.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    From Liberia, take the direct bus from the Terminal de Buses Municipal de Liberia to Hacienda Guachipelin. The bus departs three times a day and the journey takes approximately 40 minutes. From Hacienda Guachipelin, it is a short walk to the park entrance. Bus fare is approximately $1–3. Note that you may need to pay a toll of around 800 CRC (about $1.50 USD) per person to pass through the Hacienda Guachipelin property.

  • Taxi

    From Liberia, a taxi to Rincón de la Vieja National Park will cost approximately $40–$50 and take around 37 minutes. Note that you may need to pay a toll of around 800 CRC (about $1.50 USD) per person to pass through the Hacienda Guachipelin property.

  • Driving

    From Liberia, drive approximately 45 minutes north. Take Ruta 1 highway and turn right when you see signs for Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Continue towards Curubandé and through Hacienda Guachipelin. You will need to pay a toll of around 800 CRC (about $1.50 USD) per person to pass through the Hacienda Guachipelin property. Continue to the park entrance. Parking is free. Be aware that the roads are not in the best condition, so drive slowly.

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Discover more about Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja

Rincón de la Vieja National Park, located in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica, is a natural marvel spanning over 34,000 acres. Established in 1973, the park was created to protect the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano and the surrounding tropical dry forests. The park's name, meaning "The Old Woman's Corner," comes from a local legend about Princess Curubandá. The park is divided into two main sectors: Las Pailas and Santa María. Las Pailas, the most popular sector, showcases the volcano's geothermal activity with steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and natural hot springs. The Santa María sector offers a different experience with lush rainforests and trails. Visitors can explore a variety of hiking trails, each offering unique views and experiences. The Las Pailas Loop Trail is an easy 2.5-mile loop that passes by boiling mud pots and a small volcano. For a longer hike, the La Cangreja Waterfall Trail leads to a beautiful blue-colored waterfall, though swimming is no longer allowed. Rincón de la Vieja is also home to diverse wildlife, including over 300 species of birds, monkeys, cougars, and jaguars. The park's unique combination of volcanic activity, hot springs, and tropical forests makes it a must-see destination for nature enthusiasts.

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