Volcano Hike at Rincon de la Vieja with Hacienda Guachipelin
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for hikers with a reasonable level of fitness comfortable walking uneven terrain for several hours.
Overview
Step into the volcanic heartland of Guanacaste with Hacienda Guachipelin’s private Las Pailas trail hike. Witness bubbling mud pots and encounter vibrant wildlife on this guided stroll near Liberia.
Private Hike to Las Pailas Trail at Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Ages 4+ • 3 Hours Hike at Rincon De La Vieja National Park!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a private walking tour through Rincon de la Vieja National Park, home to Guanacaste's largest and most active volcano. Experience the unique sights of bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, and diverse wildlife, including over 300 bird species. This unforgettable adventure combines stunning nature with volcanic wonders, all guided by a bilingual naturalist.
Explore the most active and largest volcano in Guanacaste!
Duration
3 Hours
About
This is a private walking tour. 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 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
Wear sturdy hiking shoes
The trail includes volcanic terrain and forest paths that can be slippery; solid footwear ensures safety and comfort.
Bring plenty of water
The tropical dry forest climate can be warm and dry—stay hydrated throughout the hike.
Use insect repellent
Mosquitoes and other insects are common in the forested areas, especially during early morning and late afternoon.
Prepare for changing weather
The area can shift quickly from sunny to rainy—pack a lightweight rain jacket or poncho.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- white-faced capuchin monkeys
- green iguanas
History
Rincon de la Vieja National Park was established in 1966, preserving the largest volcano in Guanacaste and its surrounding ecosystems.
Conservation
The park uses guided tours like those with Hacienda Guachipelin to minimize impact while educating visitors on protecting volcanic and forest habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Liberia
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sturdy hiking boots
Provides traction and ankle support on volcanic rocks and forest dirt paths.
Water bottle or hydration pack
Ensures you stay hydrated in the tropical heat.
Lightweight rain jacket
Protects against sudden downpours common during rainy seasons.
summer|fall specific
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and biting insects at bay along the forest trail.