Volcano Hike at Rincon de la Vieja with Hacienda Guachipelin
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have a moderate level of fitness capable of walking several kilometers on uneven terrain.
Overview
Discover the active volcanic landscapes of Rincon de la Vieja National Park on a guided 3-hour hike with Hacienda Guachipelin. Witness bubbling mud pots, steam vents, and diverse wildlife along the Las Pailas Trails just outside Liberia, Costa Rica.
Hike to Las Pailas Trails at Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Ages 4+ • 3 Hours • Includes Transportation
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 3-hour adventure to Rincon de la Vieja National Park, home to Guanacaste's largest and most active volcano. Experience bubbling mud pots, steaming fumaroles, and diverse wildlife along a scenic 3.5 km trail, guided by a bilingual naturalist. Discover the raw power of nature in this unforgettable journey.
Explore the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste!
Duration
3 Hours
About
The Sector Las Pailas of Rincon de la Vieja National Park is located very close to Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín.
- From the hotel, we will walk for 45 minutes on a picturesque path inside the dry tropical forest until we reach the entrance to the 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. Steam and sulfur come from natural fumaroles of the soil yellow and rusty.
Clay pails in various shades of brown borbollean with boiling volcanic water. Fine gray volcanic mud bubbles and explodes in large pails. It is an experience like no 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 we finish in the park, our one day tour in Guanacaste ends with the walk back to Hotel Hacienda Guachipelín.
ENTRANCE FEE TO THE PARK IS NOT INCLUDED ON THE RATE
Adventure Tips
Stay on Marked Trails
The volcanic terrain can be fragile and hazardous; always follow the established path and your guide’s instructions.
Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Uneven dirt trails and rocky volcanic features require solid footwear with good grip.
Bring Sun Protection
Sun exposure can be strong in the dry forest; a hat and sunscreen are recommended.
Pack Water and Light Snacks
Although the hike is moderate and about 3 hours long, staying hydrated is key, especially in warmer months.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- White-faced capuchin monkeys
- Tropical birds such as keel-billed toucans
History
Rincon de la Vieja National Park was established in 1973 to protect one of Guanacaste’s key volcanic features and its surrounding ecosystems.
Conservation
The park promotes sustainable tourism practices to preserve fragile geothermal areas and the biodiversity of the dry tropical forest.
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Adventure Hotspots in Liberia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Provide traction and protect feet over rocky volcanic terrain and forest paths.
Sun Hat
Protects from strong sun during exposed sections of the trail.
summer specific
Reusable Water Bottle
Staying hydrated is critical in Costa Rica’s warm climate.
Light Rain Jacket
Useful for sudden showers common in the rainy season.
summer specific