Excursion to Rincón de la Vieja National Park (full-day tour)

Join us on an exciting full-day tour to Rincón de la Vieja National Park, where you can experience the area’s unique nature, abundant wildlife, and fascinating volcanic landscape.

Rincón de la Vieja National Park covers an area of 14,084 hectares and is one of Costa Rica’s most pristine and least-visited regions. The park is named after its main attraction, the active Rincón de la Vieja volcano, which rises 1,895 metres above sea level. Translated, Rincón de la Vieja means “the old woman’s corner” and refers to a local legend about a woman who lived in the area and possessed healing powers.

The drive from Tamarindo to the national park takes around 2–3 hours, with a short break along the way where you can enjoy a cup of coffee and perhaps a light breakfast.

Upon arrival, you’ll set off on an exciting two-hour hike in the Pailas sector of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano. As you follow the trail through the tropical dry forest, you and your guide will keep an eye out for wildlife such as toucans, capuchin monkeys, howler monkeys, coatis, and many other species. You’ll also witness clear signs of volcanic activity, including bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and small crater areas.

After the hike, you’ll continue to the beautiful Oropendola Waterfall, located just outside the national park. Here, you can take a refreshing dip in the small lagoon or simply enjoy the stunning natural surroundings.

Next, a well-deserved and varied buffet lunch awaits you, offering a wide selection of dishes. The buffet includes a salad bar, various main courses with accompaniments, dessert, and fresh juice, coffee, and tea.

The day concludes with relaxation in the hot springs by the Río Negro. These natural, mineral-rich pools are heated by the Rincón de la Vieja volcano and set against the lush backdrop of the tropical forest. Here, you can unwind in the warm water and treat yourself to a volcanic mud bath – cover yourself in the mineral-rich clay and then rinse it off in the cool river for a natural spa experience that leaves your skin soft and refreshed.

After an eventful day, sit back and relax during the bus journey back to Tamarindo.

Start and end point: Your hotel in Tamarindo (pick-up time is stated on your voucher).

Duration: Approx. 13–14 hours (transport time around 5–6 hours).

Level of difficulty: Easy to moderate. The tour includes a 2-hour hike through the national park on uneven terrain. There are also several steep stairs at the waterfall and the hot springs.

Group size: Maximum 35–40 people.

Price includes: Transport, guide, water, and lunch.

Remember to bring: Good closed-toe walking shoes, sandals, swimwear, towel, change of clothes, camera, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a refillable water bottle.

Please note: A minimum of 2 participants is required for the tour to operate. If this minimum is not met, you will of course receive a full refund.
Rincón de la Vieja National Park is closed on Mondays.
Please inform us of any allergies or dietary preferences when booking the excursion.
You must bring a photo of your passport with you on the tour.