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Gruppenreisen Costa Rica »The natural wonder between fire and water - Rincón de la Vieja
The Rincón de la Vieja National Park in north-west Costa Rica is a true natural wonder - a fascinating combination of active volcanic landscape, tropical dry forest, hot springs and impressive waterfalls. The protected area around the volcano of the same name offers spectacular hiking trails, geothermal activities and impressive biodiversity - all just over an hour away from Liberia. If you want to experience nature actively, relax in natural thermal springs and enjoy the comfort of good infrastructure, this is the ideal place. Rincón de la Vieja combines adventure, relaxation and authentic nature experiences - in a region that is still considered an insider tip.
Highlights
in Rincón de la Vieja
✓ Active stratovolcano with nine craters
✓ Mud holes and steam vents in Las Pailas
✓ Turquoise-blue waterfalls La Cangreja and Oropéndola
✓ Hot springs of Río Negro
✓ Impressive rocky landscape at the Río Blanco Canyon
Places of interest Rincón de la Vieja
Stratovolcano
The Rincón de la Vieja is one of the most impressive volcanoes in Costa Rica - an active stratovolcano with nine different craters. It towers majestically over the landscape of Guanacaste and characterises the entire ecosystem of the surrounding national park. Depending on the season and safety situation, it is possible to hike right up to the edge of the crater - with spectacular views of the Pacific coast and inland. The volcano is not only geologically impressive, but also spiritually significant: many legends surround it and make a visit a cultural and natural history experience.
Las Pailas
The geothermally active area of Las Pailas ("the cooking pots") demonstrates the raw energy of the volcano in a particularly impressive way. Here it bubbles, hisses and steams from the earth - sulphur vapours rise, mud boils in natural pools and the air is filled with volcanic scent. The well-maintained circular trail leads through this extraordinary landscape, past fumaroles, steaming stone fields and bizarre rock formations. It is a fascinating place that combines science and sensory impressions.
Waterfalls
The two waterfalls La Cangreja and Oropéndola are among the absolute natural highlights of the national park. While La Cangreja offers a turquoise-coloured natural pool after a somewhat longer hike in the middle of the forest, the Oropéndola waterfall can be reached in just a few minutes. Both offer crystal-clear water, ideal bathing conditions and a peaceful, green environment in which to relax. The interplay of tropical forest, rock and water makes them special places for relaxation and refreshment.
Río Negro
The hot springs of Río Negro are a real feel-good place for body and soul - natural, rich in minerals and harmoniously embedded in the landscape. Surrounded by tropical vegetation, there are several thermal pools with soothingly warm water that comes directly from the earth's volcanic interior. Many visitors also enjoy a traditional volcanic mud treatment here before cooling off in the river. The combination of relaxation and nature makes this experience an ideal end to an active hike.
Río Blanco Canyon
The Río Blanco Canyon is an impressive gorge with steep, light-coloured rock faces that run through the volcanic area. The viewpoint offers spectacular views over the canyon and the surrounding highlands - particularly beautiful at sunset. The landscape is characterised by contrasts: light-coloured rocks, green forests and the clear water of the river that meanders through the gorge. The canyon shows the quiet, powerful side of the national park and is an insider tip for photographers and nature lovers.
Popular activities in Rincón de la Vieja
Hike
Walk along well-maintained paths through steaming crater landscapes and hot springs in Las Pailas.
Birdwatching
Discover toucans, motmots and hummingbirds in a natural environment.
Recreation in thermal springs
Relax in hot, mineral-rich river pools in the open air.
Riding trip
Ride on horseback to hidden waterfalls and through the dry forest.
Tubing
Float down the Río Negro in an inner tube through small rapids and calm sections of the river.
Traditional finca
Get to know the local agriculture, cuisine and culture.
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History of the place and interesting facts
The Rincón de la Vieja National Park was founded in 1973 and has been protecting one of Costa Rica's most diverse volcanic landscapes ever since. The volcano itself is geologically active and for centuries was a spiritual place for indigenous peoples, who revered it as the "place of the old woman" - based on a local legend. The park was gradually developed without losing its wild character. Today it is a prime example of ecological tourism with educational and recreational value.
Culture
The region around Rincón de la Vieja is heavily characterised by agriculture - coffee, sugar cane and cattle farming dominate the lives of the Tico families. Many fincas are now open to gentle tourism and offer insights into traditional ways of life, gastronomy and crafts. The legend of the "old woman" (la viejita) is deeply rooted in the local storytelling culture and is often told as part of guided tours. Here, the experience of nature is combined with living tradition.
Our tips on site
Best time to travel
The dry season from December to April is ideal for hiking and outdoor activities in the national park, as the paths are easy to walk on and visibility is clear. Even in the green season from May to July, the park offers intense colours, fewer visitors and pleasantly warm temperatures.
Costa Rican cuisine
The surrounding fincas and lodges offer fresh, down-to-earth cooking using regional produce such as beef, beans, yucca and corn. Many establishments serve home-made dishes based on traditional recipes, often in open-plan dining areas with a view of the countryside.
Locomotion
The park is best reached by hire car or organised transfer from Liberia, the journey takes around an hour. On site, you can get around on foot, on horseback or on guided tours - vehicles are not permitted inside the park.
Our varied travel offer
Private travel
Private tours offer you the freedom to organise your trip entirely according to your wishes. You receive a private tour guide and benefit from the experience of our local partners.
Privatreisen Costa Rica »
Individual travel
Individual holidays are tailor-made trips where anything is possible. You organise your itinerary in Costa Rica according to your own preferences.
Individualreisen Costa Rica »Places of interest in the neighbourhood
Manuel Antonio National Park
Manuel Antonio National Park, with its natural diversity and paradisiacal beaches, is part of many Costa Rica holidays.
Manuel Antonio National Park
Monteverde
Monteverde is known for its mystical cloud forest, impressive biodiversity and unique nature experiences at lofty heights.
Monteverde
Arenal Volcano
The Arenal volcano is one of Costa Rica's most impressive natural wonders and impresses with its perfectly shaped cone silhouette, surrounded by rainforest, thermal springs and diverse wildlife.
All important travel information
Visit our travel information page and discover everything you need to know for your upcoming trips to Central America. Here you will find details on the best time to travel, information on time changes and recommendations for important health precautions you should take before you leave.
We have compiled all the necessary information for you to ensure that your stay in Central America is pleasant and smooth. You can also find out more about local customs, safety advice and tips for an authentic and unforgettable stay.