Rincón de la Vieja Volcano: Costa Rica's Geothermal Gem
Explore Costa Rica's Rincón de la Vieja Volcano: Hike through geothermal landscapes and discover the legend of the Old Woman's Corner.
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, located in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, is an active stratovolcano and a major attraction within the Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Known for its diverse ecosystems, geothermal features like bubbling mud pots and hot springs, and the legend behind its name, it offers a unique blend of adventure and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
- Upala, Alajuela Province, CR
Local tips
- Wear appropriate hiking shoes and light clothing that dries quickly, and bring a swimsuit and towel to enjoy the waterfalls.
- Pack essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera to capture the diverse flora and fauna.
- Visit during the dry season (December to April) for more accessible trails and favorable weather conditions.
- Check with park rangers for trail status and safety updates due to volcanic activity.
- If planning to visit the waterfalls, arrive before noon, as entry is restricted after that time.
Getting There
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Car
From Liberia, drive approximately 15 miles (24 km) northeast. Follow signs to Curubandé, then continue towards Hacienda Guachipelín. A small toll (around $1.50) may apply. Continue to the Las Pailas Ranger Station. Parking is available at the entrance. Note that road conditions to the Santa Maria sector may require a 4x4 vehicle.
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Public Transport
Take a taxi from Rincón de la Vieja to Liberia. Then, take a bus from Liberia to Cañas, followed by another bus from Cañas to Tilaran, and a final bus from Tilaran to La Fortuna. This entire trip will take approximately six to seven hours.
Discover more about Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Poza La Pipa
14.4 km
Escape to Poza La Pipa: Swim in crystal waters, hike scenic trails, and discover Guanacaste's hidden natural beauty.
La Leona Waterfall Official Site | Finca Curubanda
14.8 km
Discover the turquoise waters of La Leona Waterfall, a hidden canyon paradise near Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Miravalles Jorge Manuel Dengo National Park
22.4 km
Discover Costa Rica's geothermal wonderland: Hike amidst volcanic landscapes, explore diverse ecosystems, and witness nature's power at Miravalles National Park.
Eladio's Place Costa Rica
22.8 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Eladio's Place, your perfect Costa Rican escape near Liberia's natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Liberia Park
23.1 km
Escape to tranquility in Liberia's central park: a green haven for relaxation, community, and cultural experiences.
Altitude Liberia
23.8 km
Reach new heights at Altitude Liberia, Guanacaste's premier rock climbing destination for all skill levels!
Hospital Metropolitano Liberia - 25 de Julio
24.1 km
Quality healthcare in Liberia, Costa Rica, offering comprehensive medical services for locals and tourists in the Guanacaste region.
Maderos Brewery
24.4 km
Experience local craft beer in a rustic setting at Maderos Brewery, just north of Liberia, Costa Rica. Enjoy unique flavors and live music.
El Patio
24.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in a charming garden setting at El Patio, just north of Liberia's historic Ermita de la Agonia.
Britt Café & Bakery Aeropuerto Liberia
24.7 km
Savor the Flavors of Costa Rica: Fresh Coffee, Pastries, and Local Cuisine at Liberia Airport's Britt Café & Bakery.
El Cevichito
24.8 km
Experience the freshest ceviche and authentic Costa Rican seafood at El Cevichito in Liberia. A local favorite!
Soda Los Comales
24.8 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Soda Los Comales in Liberia, where traditional dishes and friendly service create a memorable dining experience.
Restaurante Cuatro Mares
24.9 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Asia in the heart of Liberia, Costa Rica. Open daily, Cuatro Mares offers a unique culinary journey.
Restaurant Guacamole
24.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors and warm hospitality at Restaurant Guacamole, a vibrant culinary gem in the heart of Liberia.
Astorga Restaurante
25.0 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Astorga Restaurante in Liberia, where local ingredients meet culinary excellence.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sensoria "Land of Senses and Magical rainforest"
4.2 km
Experience the vibrant beauty of nature at Sensoria, the Land of Senses, where magical rainforest adventures await in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Dino Park Blue River Resort Costa Rica
5.7 km
Roam with dinosaurs in a lush Costa Rican rainforest at Dino Park Blue River Resort, an unforgettable adventure for the whole family near Rincon de la Vieja.
Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja
6.6 km
Explore the stunning geothermal features, waterfalls, and wildlife of Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, a must-visit national park in Costa Rica's Guanacaste Province.
Sector Las Pailas Área de Conservación Guanacaste
6.6 km
Discover the unmatched beauty of Sector Las Pailas in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where nature, adventure, and biodiversity come together in perfect harmony.
Oropendola waterfall
6.9 km
Explore the stunning Oropendola Waterfall in Guanacaste, where nature's beauty meets adventure in a tranquil setting.
Blue River Resort & Hot Springs
7.9 km
Discover the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure at Blue River Resort & Hot Springs in stunning Alajuela Province, Costa Rica.
Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
8.3 km
Experience the thrill of adventure and the serenity of nature at Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Fumarola Borinquen. Volcán Rincón de la Vieja.
8.7 km
Explore the mesmerizing fumaroles and rich biodiversity at Fumarola Borinquen in Volcán Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica.
Rio Negro Hot Springs
10.0 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Rio Negro Hot Springs in Guanacaste, where natural thermal waters and lush landscapes create the ultimate relaxation retreat.
Tour Center - Hacienda Guachipelin
10.2 km
Experience thrilling adventure sports at Hacienda Guachipelin, a stunning adventure center nestled in Guanacaste's natural beauty.
Upala Chocolate
11.3 km
Discover the rich flavors of Costa Rican cacao at Upala Chocolate, where sustainability meets exceptional bean-to-bar craftsmanship.
Vida Aventura Nature Park
13.2 km
Explore Vida Aventura Nature Park, a stunning blend of nature and adventure in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, perfect for wildlife lovers and thrill-seekers alike.
Vandará Explore Costa Rica's Nature
13.3 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife of Vandarás, a premier eco-tourism destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Indigo Adventure Park
13.4 km
Discover the thrill of adventure and the serenity of nature at Indigo Adventure Park, a must-visit attraction in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Don Rafa Adventure Tours
13.8 km
Experience the thrill of nature at Don Rafa Adventure Tours, where guided hikes lead to stunning waterfalls and unforgettable adventures in Guanacaste Province.
Essential places to dine
La Cocina de Mayrita
6.9 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Cocina de Mayrita in El Gavilan - where every dish tells a story.
Finca Nueva Zelandia
8.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Finca Nueva Zelandia in Guanacaste—where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
Nekajui Garden Restaurant
10.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Nekajui Garden Restaurant, nestled in Guanacaste's stunning natural landscapes.
Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service
14.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service.
El Chante de Mike
23.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican flavors at El Chante de Mike – a top-rated restaurant in Guanacaste offering unforgettable culinary experiences.
Restaurante Zona de Amigos
24.4 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Zona de Amigos in Liberia – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
La Fonda
24.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Fonda in Liberia's vibrant Guanacaste Province.
Cielito Lindo Liberia
24.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Cielito Lindo Liberia—where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Sushi Fusión Liberia
24.7 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sushi Fusión Liberia, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in every delicious bite.
RESTAURANTE LIBERIA
24.7 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Liberia in Guanacaste Province – a must-visit for food lovers!
DONDE GODO
24.7 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Donde Godo in Liberia – where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurante Continental
24.8 km
Experience exquisite Asian cuisine at Restaurante Continental in Liberia - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Restaurante La Ermita
24.8 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante La Ermita in Liberia - a culinary gem offering authentic dishes in a vibrant atmosphere.
Wau Mey
24.8 km
Discover the authentic taste of Asia at Wau Mey in Liberia - where every dish tells a story and flavors come alive.
Restaurante El Pilón
24.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante El Pilón in Liberia – where every meal tells a story of local tradition.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Vinos Artesanales Tonino
14.1 km
Explore the exquisite world of Costa Rican artisanal wines at Vinos Artesanales Tonino, nestled in the scenic beauty of Guanacaste.
Mini súper Rincón de la Vieja
14.7 km
Explore the vibrant offerings of Mini súper Rincón de la Vieja, a local supermarket in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, offering fresh produce and unique souvenirs.
Naranjos
14.8 km
Explore Naranjos, a vibrant supermarket in Curubandé de Liberia, offering local products and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Souvenir curubanda
14.8 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican crafts at Souvenir Curubanda, the perfect spot for unique souvenirs in Curubandé de Liberia, Guanacaste.
Pulperia elí la unión
17.1 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Guanacaste at Pulperia elí la unión, a local supermarket filled with fresh produce and traditional Costa Rican goods.
Almacén El Pirineo
17.2 km
Discover the flavors of Guanacaste at Almacén El Pirineo, your local supermarket for fresh produce and unique Costa Rican products.
Ciclo Marilin
18.2 km
Discover unique local crafts and souvenirs at Ciclo Marilin in beautiful Guanacaste, where culture and creativity come together for an unforgettable shopping experience.
Mundo Primitivo
18.3 km
Explore unique and stylish footwear at Mundo Primitivo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica - a local favorite for shoe enthusiasts.
Bazar y BisuteríaYULI
18.3 km
Explore the authentic craftsmanship of Costa Rica at Bazar y BisuteríaYULI, a must-visit cutlery store in Mogote de Bagaces.
Diseños oropendola
18.6 km
Explore the artistry of Costa Rican jewelry at Diseños Oropendola – a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted pieces in Guanacaste Province.
Chepe's Store
22.9 km
Explore Chepe's Store in Guanacaste for a stunning selection of formal wear, perfect for every special occasion.
GYG MINI MART
23.0 km
Discover the convenience of GYG Mini Mart in Liberia, Guanacaste, your go-to supermarket for local goods and essentials.
Jimena Boutique
23.1 km
Explore Jimena Boutique in Liberia for a unique shopping experience, featuring stylish clothing and accessories that showcase Costa Rican fashion.
Luna Boutique Liberia
23.5 km
Explore Luna Boutique Liberia, a vibrant clothing store in Guanacaste offering unique Costa Rican fashion and accessories for discerning travelers.
D'Karis
24.3 km
Explore a unique collection of locally crafted treasures at D'Karis Gift Shop in Liberia, Guanacaste, and take home a piece of Costa Rican culture.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Swimming Pool and Wet Bar
8.4 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at the Swimming Pool and Wet Bar in Guanacaste, where tropical cocktails and serene surroundings come together.
El Mirador
8.6 km
Discover El Mirador, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste offering stunning views, local drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
CanopyBar
10.1 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of CanopyBar in Guanacaste, where tropical drinks and local flavor come together for an unforgettable experience.
Quebrada Grande, Liberia, Guanacaste
17.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Quebrada Grande, a top bar destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Caballo Blanco
18.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Bar Caballo Blanco in Guanacaste Province, a perfect spot for relaxation and local culture.
Bar El Pueblo
19.1 km
Discover Bar El Pueblo in Guanacaste, a lively bar where local flavors and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.
Bar potrerillo
22.5 km
Experience the authentic taste of Costa Rica at Bar Potrerillo, where grilled delights and local hospitality await in beautiful Guanacaste.
Balbo's
22.7 km
Experience the best of Guanacaste at Balbo's, where local flavors meet stunning nature and endless adventures.
Clan las palmas
22.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Clan Las Palmas, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar Rancho Miravalles
23.0 km
Experience the charm of Costa Rica at Bar Rancho Miravalles, a cozy bar in La Fortuna offering local drinks and a welcoming atmosphere.
CLAN LOS TAMARINDOS
23.4 km
Discover the lively ambiance and refreshing drinks at Clan Los Tamarindos, a must-visit bar in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where every night is a celebration.
Bar Julia
23.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bar Julia in Liberia, Guanacaste, a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment.
Bar & Restaurante Tinoco Spot Bar
24.3 km
Discover the lively ambiance and local flavors at Tinoco Spot Bar in Guanacaste, where culture and refreshment meet in a tropical setting.
Villas del Sol Liberiano bar
24.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of Villas del Sol Liberiano Bar, a perfect blend of relaxation and entertainment in the heart of Liberia, Costa Rica.
Bar El Barquito
24.7 km
Experience the laid-back charm of Bar El Barquito in Guanacaste, a perfect spot for refreshing drinks and local flavor by the coast.
