Horseback Adventure & Hot Springs at Hacienda Guachipelin
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for individuals in reasonably good physical condition, comfortable sitting on a horse for up to two hours and walking on uneven terrain.
Overview
Saddle up for a scenic horseback ride through tropical forest trails, ending at the soothing mineral-rich Rio Negro Hot Springs near Liberia, Costa Rica. Hacienda Guachipelin blends outdoor adventure with volcanic wellness for an unforgettable day.
Horseback Riding to Rio Negro Hot Springs
Ages 4+ • 5 Hour Adventure!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Experience the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation with a horseback ride through scenic trails to the stunning Rio Negro Hot Springs. Soak in mineral-rich waters, enjoy natural volcanic clay treatments, and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the tropical forest. This unforgettable day tour promises both excitement and rejuvenation.
Duration
5 Hours
About
The Rio Negro Hot Springs are one of the most popular attractions at Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Combine the hot springs with fun horseback riding and you’ve got a great day tour in Guanacaste!
Our tour starts off from Hotel Hacienda Guachipelin’s stables, riding our sturdy Costa Rican ranch horses on a very scenic trail through ranch pastureland and forest. You will see a variety of birds, mammals, and reptiles on our hour-long ride to the Rio Negro (Black River) Hot Springs.
Surrounded by thick tropical dry forest, the Rio Negro Hot Springs is a beautiful, tranquil setting. The crystal clear river flows through 10 man-made pools filled with steaming mineral-rich water heated naturally by the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. 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 cool 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.
When you are ready, we’ll leisurely ride back to Hacienda Guachipelin (1 hour).
All of our horseback rides follow mostly forest trails, with very little time on transited ranch roads. Tours are guided by one of our experienced ranch cowboys. All tour participants must wear riding helmets. We recommend using closed-toe shoes and long pants or long shorts.
What to Bring
Camera, long pants, comfortable clothes, closed-toe shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat.
Adventure Tips
Wear long pants and closed-toe shoes
Protect your legs and feet from brush and insects on forest trails during the ride.
Bring insect repellent
The tropical forest can be home to mosquitoes and other bugs, especially near water.
Protect yourself from the sun
Use sunscreen and bring a hat; open stretches can expose you to strong Guanacaste sun.
Follow safety instructions closely
Helmets are mandatory and guidance from the experienced ranch cowboys is key to a smooth ride.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Collared peccaries (wild pigs)
- Turquoise-browed motmots
History
Rincon de la Vieja Volcano and its surrounds have long been sacred to indigenous peoples, and volcanic hot springs were traditionally used for healing purposes.
Conservation
Hacienda Guachipelin emphasizes low-impact tourism and habitat preservation within the Rincon de la Vieja National Park buffer to protect local biodiversity.
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Adventure Hotspots in Liberia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Long pants
Protects legs from brush, insects, and saddle friction during the ride.
Closed-toe shoes
Sturdy footwear is necessary for both riding and walking through the hot springs trails.
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and bugs at bay while on forest trails and near water.
spring|summer|fall specific
Sunscreen
Protects against intense sun exposure common in the Guanacaste region.
spring|summer|fall|winter specific