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Explore Rincon de la Vieja: Volcano Trails and La Oropéndola Waterfall Adventure - Liberia

Explore Rincon de la Vieja: Volcano Trails and La Oropéndola Waterfall Adventure

Liberiamoderate

Difficulty

moderate

Duration

3–4 hours

Fitness Level

Moderate fitness required; trail includes some uneven and volcanic terrain with mild elevation changes.

Overview

Discover the fiery landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on an engaging 3.5-hour hike featuring steaming fumaroles and vibrant wildlife, culminating in a refreshing swim beneath the stunning La Oropéndola Waterfall.

Liberia, Provincia de Guanacaste

Hike to Las Pailas Trails Rincon De La Vieja National Park & la Oropendola Waterfall

Ages 4+ • 3.5 Hour Adventure!

Attraction
Hiking
Transportation

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Adventure Photos

Hike to Las Pailas Trails Rincon De La Vieja National Park & la Oropendola Waterfall photo 1

About This Adventure

Embark on a thrilling 3.5-hour adventure at Rincon de la Vieja National Park, home to Costa Rica's most active volcano. Explore fumaroles, geysers, and vibrant wildlife on a scenic 3.5 km hike, then unwind at the stunning La Oropéndola Waterfall, cascading into a turquoise pool—an unforgettable tropical escape awaits!

One of the most active volcanoes in Costa Rica!

Duration

3.5 Hours

About

From Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín we will walk for 45 minutes on a beautiful path to the entrance of Sector Las Pailas in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park. The Las Pailas Sector The Las Pailas sector (which is another way in which boilers are known) spectacularly shows the power of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.

Fumaroles, geysers, bubbling mud pots and many other attractions will give you an experience that you will not find in any other volcano in Costa Rica.

With our bilingual naturalist guide, you can walk the 3.5 km Las Pailas circular path through the tropical dry forest to enjoy the best views of the volcano, incredible nature, volcanic activity, and wildlife. In the park live more than 300 species of birds, and many other animals, such as armadillos, bays, iguanas, coatis and white-faced monkeys, howler monkeys and spider monkeys.

When you finish the hike, you will be ready for a refreshing dip in the La Oropendola Waterfall. From the entrance of the National Park is a small walk along a path of varied terrain that leads to the river.

You will also walk a small distance inside the river until you reach the waterfall. La Oropéndola waterfall, with its impressive 25 meters, falls into a bubbling turquoise pool in the exuberant canyon of the Blanco River, creating an incredible tropical oasis.

After relaxing for a while at the waterfall, our one day Guanacaste tours end with the return walk to Hacienda Guachipelín.

You can also reach the Rincon de la Vieja National Park and La Oropéndola Waterfall using the hotel's transportation, in one or both directions. It's 10 minutes by car from the hotel.

ENTRANCE FEE TO THE PARK IS NOT INCLUDED ON THE RATE

Adventure Tips

Watch for Strong Sulfur Smells

The volcanic activity emits strong sulfur odors; bring tissues if sensitive and keep mouths closed in fumarole areas.

Stay on Marked Trails

Follow designated paths closely to avoid unstable volcanic soil and protect sensitive habitats.

Carry Swimwear and Towel

Bring swim attire to enjoy a dip in the clear pool beneath La Oropéndola Waterfall.

Use Bug Repellent

Apply insect repellent to protect against mosquitoes prevalent near the waterfall and humid forest sections.

Local Insights

Wildlife

  • Oropéndola bird
  • White-faced capuchin monkey

History

Rincon de la Vieja was declared a national park in 1973 to protect its volcanic landscapes and endemic wildlife.

Conservation

The park implements strict trail regulations and educates visitors to minimize human impact on its delicate geothermal ecosystem.

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Adventure Hotspots in Liberia

Frequently Asked Questions

Recommended Gear

Hiking Shoes

Essential

Sturdy trail shoes provide traction on volcanic and forest terrain.

Water Bottle

Essential

Stay hydrated during the hike in the hot Costa Rican climate.

Swimsuit

Essential

For swimming in the waterfall pool at the trail’s end.

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Insect Repellent

Essential

Protects against mosquitoes near humid forest and water areas.

all specific