Volcanic Hike & Hot Springs at Hacienda Guachipelin
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
4 hours
Fitness Level
Good fitness recommended due to uneven terrain and moderate elevation gain across volcanic trails.
Overview
Trek through volcanic activity and diverse wildlife on the Las Pailas trail with Hacienda Guachipelin, then cool off beneath La Oropéndola Waterfall before soaking in the soothing Río Negro Hot Springs.
Hike to Las Pailas Rincon De La Vieja National Park + La Oropéndola Waterfall + Río Negro Hot Springs
Ages 4+ • 4 Hour Adventure!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the breathtaking Las Pailas area of Rincón de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica. Hike through diverse wildlife and volcanic activity, then cool off at the stunning Oropendola Waterfall. Conclude your adventure at the relaxing Rio Negro Hot Springs, where you can indulge in mineral-rich waters and rejuvenating volcanic clay.
Duration
4 Hours
About
Meaning “The Cauldrons” in Spanish, the Las Pailas area spectacularly shows off the awesome power of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Steaming fumaroles, mini-geysers and bubbling volcanic mud pits give you an incredible experience like no other volcano in Costa Rica.
Hiking in the Rincon de la Vieja National Park on the Las Pailas loop trail takes you 2.5 miles (3.5 km) through dry tropical forest to see the best views of the volcano, incredible nature, volcanic activity, and wildlife. Our bilingual naturalist guide will point out many of the 300 bird species that live here, and any other animals, like white-faced, howler and spider monkeys, armadillos, collared peccaries, iguanas, snakes, or white-nosed coatis.
When you finish your hike, you’ll be ready for a refreshing swim in the Oropendula Waterfall. It is a short walk from the national park entrance on a trail with varying terrain to get down to the river bottom. The Oropendola Waterfall plunges an impressive 82 feet (25 meters) to a sparkling turquoise pool in the lush canyon of the Rio Blanco (White River), creating a picturesque tropical oasis.
After your swim, a car will be ready to take you to the Rio Negro Hot Springs, one of the most popular attractions at Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Surrounded by thick tropical dry forest, Rio Negro (Black River) flows through 10 man-made pools filled with steaming mineral-rich volcanic waters. You access pools on both sides of the river by two hanging bridges. Heated volcanic clay is available to smooth all over like a spa “body masque.” After it dries, wash it off with cold river water before jumping back in the hot pools.
There are changing rooms, bathrooms, and lockers at the hot springs entrance. From there, you will walk a beautiful trail less than a quarter-mile (350 meters) through the forest to the hot springs pools.
ENTRANCE FEE TO THE PARK IS NOT INCLUDED ON THE RATE
Adventure Tips
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The Las Pailas loop crosses varied volcanic terrain and forest trails that can be slippery or uneven.
Bring insect repellent
Tropical forests host mosquitoes and other biting insects, especially near the waterfall and hot springs areas.
Pack swimwear and a towel
You'll want to swim at La Oropéndola Waterfall and relax in the mineral pools of Río Negro Hot Springs.
Stay hydrated and carry snacks
The volcanic hike and hot springs visit span several hours; keep energy levels up and water close at hand.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-faced capuchin monkeys
- Collared peccaries
History
Rincón de la Vieja National Park was established to protect the area’s unique volcanic landscapes and dry tropical forests, reflecting ongoing conservation efforts since 1973.
Conservation
Hacienda Guachipelin practices sustainable tourism, emphasizing minimal impact on fragile volcanic soils and local ecosystems to preserve biodiversity.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides traction and support on volcanic and forest trails.
Swimsuit
Necessary for swimming at the waterfall and soaking in hot springs.
Sun protection (hat and sunscreen)
Protects skin from strong tropical sun during the hike.
summer specific
Water bottle
Keeps you hydrated during physical activity in warm conditions.