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Rincon de la Vieja National Park – Hiking Trails and Natural Wonders

Author: Zachary Ellison
July 9, 2024

Explore the uncharted territories of Rincon de la Vieja National Park!

Download our comprehensive guide and trail map to uncover the secrets of this majestic active volcano. Get ready for a hiking adventure like no other, as you discover breathtaking viewpoints, picturesque waterfalls, and other natural wonders hidden within the stunning dry tropical forest.

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Rincon de la Vieja National Park - Hiking Trails and Natural Wonders

Home to the majestic active volcano, Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers an unparalleled hiking experience amidst the stunning dry tropical forest. With various trails leading to breathtaking viewpoints, picturesque waterfalls, and other natural attractions, this park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts. As one of the best hiking spots in Costa Rica, Rincon de la Vieja promises an unforgettable adventure.

Park Sectors and Operating Hours

As of August 1, 2023, park tickets can be purchased online through the SINAC website. Please note that tickets will no longer be sold at the national park entrance.

Located in Guanacaste province, Rincon de la Vieja National Park is divided into two sectors:

Las Pailas Sector

Open Tuesday to Sunday (closed Mondays), 8 AM to 3 PM
For La Cangreja or Escondida waterfall hikes, enter before 12 PM
No entry after noon for waterfalls, only boiling mud pots trail

Santa Maria Sector

Open Thursday to Monday, 8 AM to 3:30 PM

Entrance Fees

Adult foreigners: 16.95 USD
Children (2-12): 5.65 USD

Popular Sector and Activities

Most tourists visit the Las Pailas sector, which offers easy access and more facilities. Day tours often visit this sector for the boiling mud pots walk.

Location and Directions

Rincon de la Vieja National Park is conveniently located:

230 kilometers (143 miles) from San Jose
24 kilometers (15 miles) from Liberia

Navigating to Rincon de la Vieja National Park: A Guide

Las Pailas Sector

To reach the Las Pailas sector, follow these steps:

At the main intersection in Liberia, with Santa Rosa Plaza on your right, and McDonald’s ahead, turn left.
Drive approximately 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) and turn right when you see the Las Pailas Rincon de la Vieja National Park signs.
Continue on this road for about 20 kilometers.

Important Note

You must pass through the Hacienda Guachipelin property to access the Las Pailas Park entrance. At the security station with a gate, you will pay a fee of around 800 CRC per person.

Finding the Park on GPS

Locate Rincon de la Vieja on Google Maps and Waze by searching for “Parque Nacional Rincon de la Vieja” and selecting the La Pailas sector. The Las Pailas sector park office is where you can purchase tickets and enter the park.

Santa Maria Sector

Search for the Santa Maria Ranger Station on Google Maps and Waze to locate the Santa Maria sector.

Reaching Rincon de la Vieja National Park: A Guide to Accessing the Las Pailas and Santa Maria Sectors

Las Pailas Sector

No need for a 4×4! The road to the Las Pailas sector is mainly paved, with a short gravel section and some potholes. If you’re driving a low-clearance 2WD like a sedan, just take it slow and easy. The scenic route from the Interamericana Highway 1 is flat and manageable.

Parking

Once you arrive, you can park conveniently in the large, free lot in front of the Las Pailas National Park office.

Santa Maria Sector

Due to the rough road conditions in the final kilometers, a high-clearance vehicle is recommended for the Santa Maria sector. Plan ahead and choose a suitable ride for a smooth adventure.

Amenities at Rincon de la Vieja National Park: What to Expect

Las Pailas Sector

Before you start your adventure, take note of the following amenities available at the Las Pailas Park office:

Clean bathrooms for your convenience
A small convenience store located just below the park office offers:
- Snacks
- Bottled water
- Drinks

Please note that there are no restaurants or full-size markets within the park. Plan and pack accordingly!

Las Pailas Hiking Trails

The Las Pailas sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers a variety of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts. The trails range from an easy 3.5-kilometer loop around the boiling mud pots to a more challenging 10.2-kilometer roundtrip hike to Catarata Escondida/La Cangreja. Please note that if you plan to hike to the waterfall, you must enter the park before noon.

Additionally, the crater summit trail is closed due to volcanic activity.

Sendero Las Pailas – 3.5 kilometers loop

Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on a leisurely 3-kilometer loop hike. This scenic trail takes you on an effortless journey to the iconic boiling mud pots, passing by an array of breathtaking sights.

You’ll meander through a tranquil forest, taking in the volcancito (little volcano), a seasonal waterfall, and the mud pots themselves. The trail’s gentle terrain makes it perfect for a relaxed adventure, free from challenging switchbacks and steep climbs.

With a total duration of approximately an hour, including stops to soak in the scenery, this hike is an ideal way to experience the park’s splendor without exerting yourself too much. Be sure to pace yourself, as the heat can make the trek feel slightly longer. However, the forest canopy provides a welcome respite from the sun, shading you for half of the trail.

As you emerge from the forest, you’ll be struck by the dramatic contrast of the landscape. The lush surroundings give way to a seemingly endless mountain range, forest, and clear skies, with the dry season’s yellow hue dominating the scenery. This transformation only adds to the trail’s allure, making your hike an unforgettable experience.

Seasonal Waterfall

Along the loop, you’ll encounter the seasonal waterfall, named for its unpredictable flow. During your visit in February, you might find the waterfall as a gentle trickle. However, you’ll be intrigued to know that during the peak rainy season, typically in September, October, and November, it transforms into a robust and awe-inspiring sight. The contrast between the two seasons is remarkable, leaving you to wonder what the waterfall would look like in all its glory.

Despite its modest appearance during the dry season, the waterfall still adds a touch of natural beauty to the trail. You’ll appreciate the unique charm it brings to the landscape, making the scenic hike even more memorable. The waterfall’s unpredictable nature only adds to the trail’s allure, inviting you to experience its transformation during different times of the year.

Mud Pots

Along the trail, you’ll encounter two distinct areas showcasing the mesmerizing mud pots. The first area resembles a small lake, or laguna fumarolica, where intermittent bubbles release a gentle hiss of steam. Further down the path, you’ll come across Volcanito, or little volcano, where the mud pots are incredibly active, constantly churning and bubbling with energy.

The intensity is palpable, with mud splattering up to a foot high and the sulfuric aroma wafting through the air, teasing your senses. Witnessing this natural phenomenon is truly fascinating, especially knowing that Costa Rica harnesses this geothermal power to generate electricity. As you near the end of the loop, the experience will leave you in awe, grateful for the opportunity to connect with nature’s raw energy.

You’ll be struck by the contrast between the two areas, each offering a unique perspective on the mud pots’ beauty and power. The experience will linger with you, a testament to the trail’s ability to inspire wonder and appreciation for the natural world.

Sendero Catarata La Cangreja - 5.2 kilometers

Rincon de la Vieja National Park’s breathtaking waterfalls await on the Sendero Cataratas trail, which diverges into two paths, each revealing a distinct waterfall. You can choose to explore one or both trails, depending on your hiking experience and fitness level.

If you’re up for the challenge, be prepared for a 13-kilometer (8-mile) adventure. Remember to pack essentials like water, food, and snacks to fuel your journey.

The La Cangreja waterfall, famous for its striking blue color, is a popular choice. From the entrance office, head east, passing through a gate and into the lush forest. The initial half of the trail offers a comfortable, shaded walk under the forest canopy, with occasional river crossings and gentle hills. However, be prepared for a steep incline in the final stretch of the trail on your return journey.

You’ll find that the trail’s varying terrain and stunning scenery make for an unforgettable experience. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance if needed. With proper preparation and awareness, you’ll be well on your way to a thrilling adventure in Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

Change of Landscape

As you venture further, the trees thin out, revealing a breathtaking clearing that will leave you in awe. The rolling hills, layered with vibrant yellow grass and lush green forests, create a picturesque landscape that seems almost surreal. You’ll find it hard to believe that a waterfall is hidden amidst this serene scenery.

The final stretch of the trail presents the greatest challenge, with a steep incline that requires careful navigation. But the reward is well worth the effort: a majestic, sparkling waterfall cascading into a brilliant blue pool. After a grueling two-hour hike in the scorching heat, you’ll be tempted to dive into the refreshing water, quenching your thirst and revitalizing your spirits.

You’ll find that the journey is just as important as the destination. The varied terrain and stunning scenery make for an unforgettable experience. Take your time to appreciate the natural beauty surrounding you, and don’t hesitate to seek guidance if needed. With proper preparation and awareness, you’ll be well on your way to a thrilling adventure.

Cangreja Waterfall

La Cangreja waterfall is a true gem in Costa Rica and one of our favorites! Please note that swimming is now prohibited due to safety concerns, although you may still spot adventurous tourists taking a dip. We indulged in a refreshing hour-long break at the waterfall, rejuvenating ourselves for the return hike.

If you only have time for one waterfall hike, we highly recommend La Cangreja over Escondido. The total hiking time is approximately 3 hours, covering a distance of 10.2 kilometers (6.33 miles).

Consider the surrounding lodges and haciendas for those seeking accommodations near Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Note that no hotels are allowed within the national park itself. Borinquen Thermal Resort and Buena Vista Lodge are situated slightly north, on the outskirts of Rincón de la Vieja. At the same time, Hacienda Guachipelin and Hotel Rincon de la Vieja Lodge are conveniently located near the Las Pailas sector. For a luxurious experience, Hotel Borinquen stands out with its elegant rustic cabins and expansive forest property, surpassing other hotels’ more rustic, ranch-style rooms.

Rincon de la Vieja National Park Tours

Are you planning a visit to Rincon de la Vieja National Park? Remember that the park doesn’t offer activities like ziplining or horseback riding. These thrilling experiences are available through surrounding lodges and adventure parks, such as Guachipelin, Buena Vista, Borinquen, Vandara, and Canyon de la Vieja. These exterior parks offer a range of exciting tours and activities that complement your national park visit. Be sure to explore your options and plan for an unforgettable experience!

Rincon de la Vieja Hot Springs

Unwind and rejuvenate at Rincon de la Vieja Hot Springs, a haven of relaxation nestled amidst the park’s volcanic wonders and serene rivers. Each of the surrounding parks – Buena Vista, Guachipelin, Borinquen, Vandara, and Canyon de la Vieja – boasts its hot springs, offering a tranquil retreat for visitors. Indulge in a day pass and soak up the warmth, or try the refreshing mud baths, where volcanic mud is applied to the skin before being washed off in the river, leaving you feeling refreshed and revitalized. And, if you venture to the Santa Maria sector, be sure to explore the natural hot springs, accessible after a leisurely 3-kilometer stroll from the local house – the perfect way to unwind and connect with nature.

Get ready for your Rincon de la Vieja adventure!

Dress in comfortable shorts and a tank top, and remember to apply mosquito repellent and pack sunglasses, sunscreen, and a hat to protect yourself from the sun. Stay hydrated with plenty of water and snacks, and consider bringing an insulated water bottle to keep your drinks refreshingly cold – trust us, you’ll appreciate it on a hot day! Wear comfortable hiking sandals or closed-toed shoes, depending on your mobility needs. Before you head out, stop by the small cafeteria near the National Park parking lot for bathrooms and essential snacks, or visit the park office for bathroom facilities. Suppose you’re staying at a nearby hotel. In that case, we highly recommend renting a car in Costa Rica to explore the area freely – you’ll need to head to Liberia for supplies, and taxis can be pricey, ranging from $25-35 one way, depending on your location.

You can download our Travel to Rincon de la Vieja National Park Checklist here.

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