Overview
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is a stunning natural reserve known for its volcanic activity, lush rainforests, and diverse wildlife. It offers a variety of hiking trails, hot springs, and waterfalls.
The park is significant for its biodiversity and unique geological features, including active volcanoes and hot springs.
Location
Address
Guanacaste
Neighborhood: Rincon de la Vieja
Coordinates
10.810600, -85.458300
Visiting Information
Opening Hours
Admission
Best Time to Visit
Overall Best Period
December-April
Best Time of Day
Early morning
fewer crowds and cooler temperatures
Duration Recommendations
Seasonal Highlights
spring
Warm and pleasant
- • Wildflowers
- • Waterfalls
summer
Hot and humid
- • Hot springs
autumn
Cooling down
- • Fewer crowds
winter
Dry and warm
- • Clear skies
- • Wildlife viewing
Know Before You Go
Essential Information
- Book ahead
- Bring ID
- Check weather forecast
What to Bring
essential
recommended
seasonal
not allowed
Health & Safety
Physical Requirements: Moderate to high
- • Stairs and steep trails
Medical facilities: First aid available at visitor center
Payment Information
Accepted
Cash, Credit cards
Currency
Costa Rican Colón (CRC)
Typical Costs
Dress Code
Casual, Comfortable hiking shoes and clothing, Hiking shoes or boots, Inappropriate clothing
Booking Tips
- • 1 month
- • Official website or authorized tour operators
- • 48 hours
- • Available
Amenities
Digital Services
Mobile App
Rincon de la Vieja NP
Size: 60 MB
Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Trail info
Platforms: iOS, Android
WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe
Charging Stations: Visitor center
How to Reach
From Airport
Nearest: Daniel Oduber Quirós International Airport (LIR)
Distance: 40 km
Travel Time: 1 hour
From City Center
Distance: 25 km
Local Insights
Cultural Context
Why Locals Love It: Rich biodiversity and natural beauty
Historical Significance: Important for conservation and ecotourism
Insider Tips
- Free entry for locals on certain days
- Best views from the Las Pailas Trail
Local Recommendations
- • Try local coffee at the visitor center
- • Ask for guide Juan
Language Help
Useful Phrases
Guide Languages: Spanish, English
Photography Guide
Best Photo Spots
Las Pailas Trail
Best Time: Early morning
Tips: Wide angle for landscapes
Result: Stunning volcanic views
Blue River Waterfall
Best Time: Golden hour
Tips: Low angle for waterfall
Result: Gorgeous waterfall shots
Photography Rules
Nearby Attractions
Las Pailas Trail
Distance: 1km
Walking: 15 min
Type: Hiking Trail
Blue River Resort and Hot Springs
Distance: 5km
Walking: 1 hour
Type: Hot Springs
Rio Negro Hot Springs
Distance: 10km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Hot Springs
Viento Fresco Waterfall
Distance: 12km
Walking: Not walkable
Type: Waterfall
Reviews
Based on 1,500 reviews
Recent Visitor Tips
- "Book a guided tour"
- "Visit early"
- "Great for wildlife spotting"
Contact Information
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Quick Info
Available Tours
37
Rating
4.7 / 5.0
Reviews
1,500
Adult Entry
$15