Rincón de la Vieja National Park: A Volcanic Wonderland
Discover Costa Rica's volcanic heart: Hike amidst geothermal wonders, explore diverse trails, and immerse yourself in the legend of Rincón de la Vieja.
Explore the raw beauty of Costa Rica's Rincón de la Vieja National Park, home to the active Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Hike through diverse landscapes, witness geothermal wonders like bubbling mud pots and steaming fumaroles, and discover the legend of Princess Curubanda, all within this captivating natural area in Guanacaste Province.
A brief summary to Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja
- Liberia, Guanacaste Province, CR
- +50626665051
- Visit website
Local tips
- Purchase park tickets online in advance through the SINAC website, as tickets are no longer sold at the entrance.
- Bring plenty of water, sunscreen, and appropriate hiking shoes, as the volcanic terrain can be hot and challenging.
- Arrive early, especially if you plan to hike to the La Cangreja or Escondida waterfalls, as entry to those trails is restricted after 12 PM.
- Consider visiting during the green season for fewer crowds, but be prepared for rain.
- A 4x4 vehicle is recommended to access the Santa Maria sector due to road conditions.
Getting There
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Driving
From Liberia, head north on Ruta 1 (Interamericana Highway). After about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles), turn right at the sign for Las Pailas, Rincón de la Vieja National Park. Continue for approximately 20 kilometers on this road. Note that to reach the Las Pailas entrance, you'll pass through Hacienda Guachipelin property and pay a toll of around 800 CRC per person. Parking at the Las Pailas sector is free.
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Public Transport
From Liberia, take a bus from the Terminal de Buses Municipal de Liberia towards Hacienda Guachipelin. The bus will drop you off at Hacienda Guachipelin, from where you will need to walk to the park entrance. The bus fare is approximately 1000 CRC. Note there may be a toll of around 800 CRC per person to pass through the Hacienda Guachipelin property.
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Taxi
A taxi from Liberia to Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Las Pailas sector) takes approximately 48 minutes and costs between $60 and $75. This is a direct route to the park entrance.
Discover more about Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Poza La Pipa
8.7 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
8.9 km
Discover the turquoise waters of La Leona Waterfall, a hidden canyon paradise near Rincón de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Liberia Park
16.9 km
Escape to tranquility in Liberia's central park: a green haven for relaxation, community, and cultural experiences.
Altitude Liberia
17.7 km
Reach new heights at Altitude Liberia, Guanacaste's premier rock climbing destination for all skill levels!
Hospital Metropolitano Liberia - 25 de Julio
17.7 km
Quality healthcare in Liberia, Costa Rica, offering comprehensive medical services for locals and tourists in the Guanacaste region.
Maleku Tours | Liberia Airport Shuttle
18.0 km
Experience the beauty of Costa Rica with Maleku Tours, your trusted airport shuttle service in Liberia, Guanacaste for unforgettable travels.
El Patio
18.2 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine in a charming garden setting at El Patio, just north of Liberia's historic Ermita de la Agonia.
Ermita de La Agonía
18.2 km
Discover the historical charm of Ermita de La Agonía in Liberia, a beautifully preserved colonial chapel offering a glimpse into Costa Rica's past.
Britt Café & Bakery Aeropuerto Liberia
18.4 km
Savor the Flavors of Costa Rica: Fresh Coffee, Pastries, and Local Cuisine at Liberia Airport's Britt Café & Bakery.
Guanacaste Nature Tours & Private services
18.4 km
Explore the natural beauty of Guanacaste, Costa Rica with personalized tours that connect you to the heart of this stunning region.
Instituto Estelar Bilingüe
18.4 km
Explore language and culture at Instituto Estelar Bilingüe in Liberia, Costa Rica, where learning Spanish becomes an unforgettable adventure.
El Cevichito
18.4 km
Experience the freshest ceviche and authentic Costa Rican seafood at El Cevichito in Liberia. A local favorite!
Maderos Brewery
18.4 km
Experience local craft beer in a rustic setting at Maderos Brewery, just north of Liberia, Costa Rica. Enjoy unique flavors and live music.
Eladio's Place Costa Rica
18.5 km
Discover tranquility and adventure at Eladio's Place, your perfect Costa Rican escape near Liberia's natural wonders and cultural experiences.
Restaurante Cuatro Mares
18.5 km
Experience the exquisite flavors of Asia in the heart of Liberia, Costa Rica. Open daily, Cuatro Mares offers a unique culinary journey.
Unmissable attractions to see
Sector Las Pailas Área de Conservación Guanacaste
0.1 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
0.4 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Oropendola Waterfall in Guanacaste, a must-visit nature preserve filled with adventure and tranquility.
Rio Negro Hot Springs
3.5 km
Discover the healing waters of Rio Negro Hot Springs in Guanacaste, Costa Rica, where relaxation meets natural beauty in a serene setting.
Tour Center - Hacienda Guachipelin
4.2 km
Explore the heart of Guanacaste with thrilling adventures like zip-lining, horseback riding, and canyoning at Hacienda Guachipelin.
Santa María Ranger Station
5.2 km
Discover the breathtaking landscapes and diverse wildlife at Santa María Ranger Station in Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja, Costa Rica.
Las Chorreras Waterfall
5.5 km
Explore the enchanting beauty of Las Chorreras Waterfall, a hidden gem in Guanacaste, perfect for hiking, swimming, and reconnecting with nature.
Volcan Rincon de la Vieja
6.4 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and geothermal wonders of Volcan Rincon de la Vieja, a must-visit destination in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province.
Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa
6.5 km
Discover adventure and tranquility at Buena Vista Del Rincon Eco Adventure Park, Hotel & Spa, a premier destination for eco-friendly tourism in Costa Rica.
Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
6.6 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty and geothermal wonders of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Waterfall Rincon De La Vieja
6.6 km
Explore the breathtaking Waterfall Rincon De La Vieja, a stunning natural attraction in Costa Rica's lush Parque Nacional Rincón de la Vieja.
Cascada La Leona
6.6 km
Explore the stunning beauty of Cascada La Leona, a breathtaking waterfall in Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica, surrounded by lush nature and adventure.
Indigo Adventure Park
6.9 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
8.0 km
Experience the breathtaking waterfalls and lush nature at Don Rafa Adventure Tours in beautiful Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica.
Fumarola Borinquen. Volcán Rincón de la Vieja.
8.0 km
Explore the mesmerizing fumaroles and rich biodiversity at Fumarola Borinquen in Volcán Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Costa Rica.
Vida Aventura Nature Park
8.3 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.
Essential places to dine
Nekajui Garden Restaurant
4.1 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Nekajui Garden Restaurant, nestled in Guanacaste's stunning natural landscapes.
Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service
9.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine surrounded by breathtaking landscapes at Camino al Cerro Catering & Pícnic Service.
Finca Nueva Zelandia
11.9 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Finca Nueva Zelandia in Guanacaste—where fresh ingredients meet vibrant flavors.
La Cocina de Mayrita
13.3 km
Experience the essence of Costa Rican flavors at La Cocina de Mayrita in El Gavilan - where every dish tells a story.
El Chante de Mike
16.8 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
18.0 km
Savor authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Zona de Amigos in Liberia – where every meal is a celebration of local flavors.
La Fonda
18.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at La Fonda in Liberia's vibrant Guanacaste Province.
Cielito Lindo Liberia
18.3 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Cielito Lindo Liberia—where every meal tells a story of flavor and tradition.
Sushi Fusión Liberia
18.3 km
Experience authentic Japanese cuisine at Sushi Fusión Liberia, where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry in every delicious bite.
DONDE GODO
18.4 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Donde Godo in Liberia – where local flavors meet a welcoming atmosphere.
RESTAURANTE LIBERIA
18.4 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Restaurante Liberia in Guanacaste Province – a must-visit for food lovers!
Restaurante Continental
18.4 km
Experience exquisite Asian cuisine at Restaurante Continental in Liberia - a must-visit destination for food lovers!
Restaurante La Ermita
18.4 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
18.5 km
Discover the authentic taste of Asia at Wau Mey in Liberia - where every dish tells a story and flavors come alive.
Restaurante La Guaria
18.5 km
Experience authentic Asian cuisine at Restaurante La Guaria in Liberia, Guanacaste – where every dish tells a story.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Mini súper Rincón de la Vieja
8.8 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
8.9 km
Explore Naranjos, a vibrant supermarket in Curubandé de Liberia, offering local products and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Souvenir curubanda
8.9 km
Explore authentic Costa Rican crafts at Souvenir Curubanda, the perfect spot for unique souvenirs in Curubandé de Liberia, Guanacaste.
Pulperia elí la unión
13.2 km
Explore the vibrant flavors of Guanacaste at Pulperia elí la unión, a local supermarket filled with fresh produce and traditional Costa Rican goods.
Vinos Artesanales Tonino
14.6 km
Explore the exquisite world of Costa Rican artisanal wines at Vinos Artesanales Tonino, nestled in the scenic beauty of Guanacaste.
Ciclo Marilin
15.4 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
15.5 km
Explore unique and stylish footwear at Mundo Primitivo in Guanacaste, Costa Rica - a local favorite for shoe enthusiasts.
Bazar y BisuteríaYULI
15.5 km
Explore the authentic craftsmanship of Costa Rica at Bazar y BisuteríaYULI, a must-visit cutlery store in Mogote de Bagaces.
Diseños oropendola
15.6 km
Explore the artistry of Costa Rican jewelry at Diseños Oropendola – a treasure trove of unique, handcrafted pieces in Guanacaste Province.
GYG MINI MART
16.7 km
Discover the convenience of GYG Mini Mart in Liberia, Guanacaste, your go-to supermarket for local goods and essentials.
Jimena Boutique
16.8 km
Explore Jimena Boutique in Liberia for a unique shopping experience, featuring stylish clothing and accessories that showcase Costa Rican fashion.
Luna Boutique Liberia
17.1 km
Explore Luna Boutique Liberia, a vibrant clothing store in Guanacaste offering unique Costa Rican fashion and accessories for discerning travelers.
Almacén El Pirineo
17.5 km
Discover the flavors of Guanacaste at Almacén El Pirineo, your local supermarket for fresh produce and unique Costa Rican products.
D'Karis
18.0 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.
Britt Shop Costa Rica
18.2 km
Explore Britt Shop Costa Rica for unique souvenirs and authentic gifts that capture the spirit of Costa Rica's vibrant culture and natural beauty.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
CanopyBar
4.2 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of CanopyBar in Guanacaste, where tropical drinks and local flavor come together for an unforgettable experience.
Swimming Pool and Wet Bar
6.6 km
Experience the ultimate relaxation at the Swimming Pool and Wet Bar in Guanacaste, where tropical cocktails and serene surroundings come together.
El Mirador
6.8 km
Discover El Mirador, a vibrant bar in Guanacaste offering stunning views, local drinks, and a lively atmosphere perfect for unwinding.
Bar El Pueblo
15.0 km
Discover Bar El Pueblo in Guanacaste, a lively bar where local flavors and vibrant nightlife come together for an unforgettable experience.
Bar Caballo Blanco
15.6 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Bar Caballo Blanco in Guanacaste Province, a perfect spot for relaxation and local culture.
Clan las palmas
16.5 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere and refreshing drinks at Clan Las Palmas, a must-visit bar in the heart of Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
CLAN LOS TAMARINDOS
17.1 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
17.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local flavors at Bar Julia in Liberia, Guanacaste, a perfect spot for relaxation and entertainment.
Quebrada Grande, Liberia, Guanacaste
17.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife and local culture at Quebrada Grande, a top bar destination in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Bar & Restaurante Tinoco Spot Bar
17.9 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
18.2 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
18.4 km
Experience the laid-back charm of Bar El Barquito in Guanacaste, a perfect spot for refreshing drinks and local flavor by the coast.
La Bendita cocktail bar
18.4 km
Discover La Bendita cocktail bar in Liberia, Guanacaste, where tropical flavors meet a vibrant atmosphere for an unforgettable night out.
Bar rancho liberiano antigua Grupera
18.4 km
Experience the authentic taste of Guanacaste at Bar Rancho Liberiano Antigua Grupera, where traditional grilled dishes meet a vibrant atmosphere.
Bar Candilejas
18.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at Bar Candilejas in Liberia – a perfect blend of local culture and lively entertainment awaits you.
