Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Everything you need to know about the two sectors: Las Pailas and Santa Maria
Video
Table of Contents
About Rincón de la Vieja National Park
Rincón de la Vieja National Park is one of Costa Rica’s most diverse natural attractions, located in the northern region of the country. It spans over 34,000 acres and is part of the Guanacaste Conservation Area, recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
The park is named after the active Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, one of the largest in the Guanacaste Mountain Range. The volcanic activity has shaped the area, creating hot springs, bubbling mud pools, fumaroles, and a variety of unique geological formations. Rincón de la Vieja National Park is also home to rich biodiversity, with distinct ecosystems ranging from dry tropical forest to lush cloud forests at higher altitudes.
Visitors to the park will discover a combination of volcanic hikes, waterfalls, bubbling geothermal energy, and incredible wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned hiker or just looking for a relaxing day surrounded by nature, Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers something for everyone.
Las Pailas Sector vs Santa María Sector
Rincon de la Vieja National Park is divided into two main sectors: Las Pailas Sector and Santa Maria Sector, each offering unique experiences and attractions.
Las Pailas Sector is the most visited and famous for its volcanic features, including active fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, hot springs, and their popular attractions: Las Pailas Trail, La Cangreja Waterfall and La Escondida Waterfall (Hidden Waterfall). Visitors can experience geothermal activity up close and hike the longer trails leading to the waterfalls.
In contrast, the Santa Maria Sector is more serene, known for its cooler climate, hot springs, and humid forest. While you won’t see as much volcanic activity, this sector offers a quieter, more tranquil experience. It’s ideal for those looking to soak in hot springs, swim in smaller waterfalls and hike through denser forest. The Santa Maria Sector also has historic relics from the early days of Costa Rican coffee plantations and sugar cane, adding a cultural element to your visit. This sector is the only one that allows camping for its visitors.
Quick Comparison: Las Pailas vs. Santa María
| Las Pailas Sector | Santa María Sector |
|---|---|
| Features active volcanic activity | Focuses on natural hot springs and forest |
| Famous for steaming fumaroles, mud pots, and small craters | Offers cooler temperatures and denser vegetation |
| Las Pailas Trail, Cangreja and Escondida Waterfall | Quieter atmosphere, ideal for relaxation |
| Accessible with well-marked trails | Great for those seeking tranquility |
| Best for volcanic exploration and adventure | Less visited section of the park |
| Does not allow camping | Camping available in the park |
| Larger groups of visitors | Little to no visitors most day |
Las Pailas Sector
Hours
| Days | Hours |
|---|---|
| Tuesday-Sunday | 8am-3pm (You can’t enter the waterfall trails after 12pm) |
How to Get Tickets
Self-Guided
- You can book a self guided visit directly through the National Park Website.
- A reservation in advance is required in order to enter the trail. If they are not at capacity, you may be able to go online and book while you are there but you will still need to book through their website and pay with card (there are no options to enter without going through the website, no cash payments or card payments onsite).
- Go to the website above
- Create an account
- Log in and select Rincon de la Vieja National Park – Las Pailas Sector
- Fill our the information requested of you, select the date and time you would like to visit
- Complete Payment for the tickets
| Adult Non-Residents (+13) | Child Non-Residents (2-12 years) | Adult Residents (13+) | Child Residents (2-12 years) | Children Under 2 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16.95 USD | $5.65 USD | ₡1.130 CRC | ₡565 CRC | Free (not recommended) |
Guided Tour
- You can also book a guided tour to Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This helps enhance your experience at the National Park because they help you understand what you are seeing and are also great at spotting wildlife.
- Keep in mind a guided tour includes a guide for Las Pailas trail only.
You can visit the waterfalls on your own if you would like after the tour concludes.
- Go to the Rincon de la Vieja Park website.
- Click a self drive tour or tour with transportation included.
- Select the tour of your choice (there are combo tours available with Las Pailas Trail)
- Proceed to booking, fill out the information requested of you.
- Complete payment for the tour.
| Adults | Children (2-12 years) | Children Under 2 |
|---|---|---|
| $45 USD | $40 USD | Free (not recommended) |
How to Get to the Las Pailas Sector
To get to Las Pailas sector you must head north from downtown Liberia for about 5km and make a right turn following the signs towards the town of Curubandé or Rincon de la Vieja National Park. Once you make the right turn, keep driving straight for about 25min, you will drive past the town of Curubandé, then arrive at the toll of Hacienda Guachipelin (you must pay ₡800 CRC colones per person) once you go through Hacienda Guachipelin’s property keep driving straight until the end of the road and that will be the parking lot for Las Pailas Sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park
Parking
As you drive up to the National Park you will see a large clearly marked parking lot. Here parking is free and available for everyone visiting the National Park.
Checking in
After parking you will then walk to the main building there. There will be people sitting at a table there, you can show them you reservation and then they will confirm your reservation in the computer. Once your reservation is confirmed you are free to explore the National Park.
Facilities
Right next to where you check in there are both men and women’s bathrooms available along with water fountains to fill up your bottles. These bathrooms are well maintained and clean. There is also a small giftshop located next to the bathrooms.
Las Pailas Sector: Trails and Attractions
The Las Pailas Sector has new facilities, including a ranger station, well-kept bridges, bathrooms and even free Wi-Fi, along with a souvenir shop. The government in recent years made big improvements on this sector, so everything is well-maintained and clean. It’s easy and comfortable for visitors
Las Pailas Trail: Description and Attractions
Las Pailas Trail is one of the most iconic hikes within Rincon de la Vieja National Park, offering a journey through the park’s active volcanic landscapes. This 3.5 kilometer (2.5 miles) loop trail provides a glimpse into the geothermal activity of the volcano and the unique biodiversity of the region. It’s accessible for most visitors, with an easy-to-moderate difficulty level, and typically takes about 2 to 3 hours max to complete.
The first part of the trail is fully paved and wheel chair accessible, as you walk along the Las Pailas Trail, you’ll be surrounded by the rich dry tropical forest, home to a wide variety of plants and animals. However, the real highlight is the volcanic activity. The trail features steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, sulfur lagoons, and mini-geysers, all reminders of the volcanic forces at work beneath your feet.
| Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 3.5km = 2.5miles | From 2 to 3 hours | Moderate | Volcanic Activity |
Las Hornillas
These geothermal vents release hot steam and gases from deep within the earth, caused by the volcanic activity beneath. As you approach, you’ll see and feel the heat rising from the ground, and the smell of sulfur is unmistakable. The sight of the steam escaping into the open air is a powerful reminder of the volcanic forces at play within Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
Volcanic Lake | Fumarolic Lagoon
The Volcanic Lake along the trail is a small but fascinating body of water heated by volcanic activity. The water can often take on unique colors, ranging from deep blue to muddy brown, depending on the minerals dissolved in it. The ph level in the water is very acid
Water Pots
The Water Pots, also known as Pailas de Agua, are small geothermal pools where volcanic heat causes the water to boil and bubble. These natural hot springs are not suitable for bathing, but they offer a captivating glimpse into the park’s geothermal processes. The vibrant colors of the water and the constant bubbling make this a standout attraction along the trail. On here you can appreciate the different minerals created by the volcanic activity such as red for iron, white for calcium and yellow for sulphur
Volcanic Bubbling Mud
One of the highlights of Las Pailas Trail is the area where you can observe Volcanic Bubbling Mud. These mud pots are formed when underground volcanic heat forces mud and clay to bubble and churn. The constant gurgling sound and the sight of thick mud slowly popping and bubbling are mesmerizing. The mud pots vary in size, and the heat radiating from them is a reminder of the powerful geothermal activity beneath your feet. This mud is used in the hot springs for the mud bath since its known to have rejuvenate minerals.
Transition from Dry Forest to Humid Forest
As you hike along the trail, you’ll experience a unique Transition from Dry Forest to Humid Forest. This change is gradual but noticeable, as the vegetation becomes denser, taller, and more lush as you progress. The dry forest at the beginning of the trail features smaller trees and more open spaces, while the humid forest offers more shade, higher humidity, and richer plant life. This transition showcases the incredible biodiversity of Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
Little Volcano
El Volcancito, or the Little Volcano, is a small but active volcanic vent that emits steam and gas. This mini-volcano gives visitors a close-up view of volcanic activity in a more manageable size. The ground around El Volcancito is hot to the touch and cracked from the constant heat. It’s a unique feature that demonstrates the immense power lurking just below the surface.
Volcanic Fumes
As you continue along the trail, you’ll encounter areas where Volcanic Fumes rise from cracks in the earth. These sulfurous gases are released from underground chambers heated by volcanic activity. The fumes create a strong smell of sulfur and adds to the sensory experience of hiking Las Pailas Trail.
Seasonal Waterfall
Depending on the time of year, you may come across a Seasonal Waterfall on the trail. During the rainy season, this waterfall flows with vigor, offering a refreshing sight and sound amidst the volcanic landscape. In the dry season, the waterfall may slow to a trickle or disappear entirely, but the surrounding rock formations and plant life remain a beautiful attraction for hikers.
La Cangreja Waterfall Trail: Description and Attractions
If you enjoy long hikes, consider adding La Cangreja Waterfall to your adventure. This is a challenging trail, about 5 km (3 miles) each way, and takes you through different types of forest, from dry tropical to lush greenery. Along the way, you might spot wildlife like monkeys, birds, and unique tropical plants, and you’ll also get some great views of the mountains.
The trail itself is a bit tough, with ups and downs, muddy sections, and some slippery spots. The altitude changes throughout the hike, so it’s best for people who are fit or used to longer hikes. It’s not recommended for kids or people with mobility issues.
The main reward at the end is the stunning La Cangreja Waterfall, which drops 40 meters (130 feet) into a bright blue pool. The water gets its turquoise color from volcanic minerals, making it a great place to stop, cool off, and take in the peaceful surroundings. It’s the perfect spot to relax after a challenging but rewarding hike.
You can enter the La Cangreja Waterfall trail until 12 PM. After that, no new hikers are allowed to start the trail. If you’re already on the trail, you must return by 4 to 5 PM at the latest.
| Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|
| 5km = 3.2miles each way | 4 hours or more | Difficult – Advanced | La Cangreja Waterfall |
La Escondida Waterfall (The Hidden Waterfall): Description and Attractions
La Escondida Waterfall, also known as The Hidden Waterfall, is the toughest trail in Rincon de la Vieja National Park. This steep trail is about 8.4 km (around 5.2 miles) round trip, making it a challenging hike for those who are up for it.
As you hike, you’ll be going uphill the whole time, and after 2km there is not much shade since you go through a rocky area with basically no trees. This means you’ll be exposed to the wind and sun for most of the journey. Because this trail is less popular and difficult to hike, you may find yourself alone, so it’s important to stay aware of your surroundings.
The trail has some big cliffs, so you need to be careful and watch your step to avoid falling. While it can be a tough hike, reaching La Escondida Waterfall at the end is a beautiful reward. The waterfall is tucked away in a quiet spot, perfect for resting and enjoying nature after your hard work.
| Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Main Attractions |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8.4km = 5.2miles round trip | 4 hours or more | Very Difficult – Advanced | La Escondida – Hidden Waterfall Great Views |
The Santa Maria Sector
How to Get Tickets
- You can book a self guided visit directly through the National Park Website.
- A reservation in advance is required in order to enter the trail. If they are not at capacity, you may be able to go online and book while you are there but you will still need to book through their website and pay with card (there are no options to enter without going through the website, no cash or card payments allowed onsite).
- Go to the National Park Website
- Create an account with the National Park
- Log in and select Rincon de la Vieja National Park – Santa Maria Sector
- Fill our the information requested of you, select the date and time you would like to visit
- Compleate Payment for the tour
| Days | Hours |
|---|---|
| Open Thursday-Monday | 8am-3:30pm |
| Adult Non-Residents (+13) | Child Non-Residents (2-12 years) | Adult Residents (13+) | Child Residents (2-12 years) | Children Under 2 Years |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| $16.95 USD | $5.65 USD | ₡1130 CRC | ₡565 CRC | Free (not recommended) |
How to Get to the Santa Maria Sector
Driving Directions to the Santa María Sector on Route 918
- Start from Liberia: Begin in downtown Liberia and head east. To stay on track, open Google Maps and search for “Santa Maria Ranger Station” or Route 918. This will help guide you, as Waze sometimes has outdated or incorrect routes here and could lead you the wrong way.
- Prepare for No Internet Connection: Download an offline map before you leave, as phone reception and internet doesn’t work sometimes on this route. Having the map saved will keep you on track even if you lose connection.
- Drive Carefully: Route 918 is a quieter road with few other cars. Try to avoid driving it after dark and avoid stopping in remote areas for safety.
Driving directions to the Santa Maria Sector from Las Pailas Sector
- Begin in downtown Liberia, heading north on Route 1 (Pan-American Highway) toward Rincon de la Vieja National Park or Curubandé town.
- After about 5 km on Route 1, take a right turn at the sign for Rincon de la Vieja National Park or Curubandé town. Follow this road straight
- Continue past the Curubandé town and drive toward Hacienda Guachipelín Hotel. You’ll reach a toll station for the hotel — go through and keep heading straight.
- Keep driving straight to reach the Río Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath.
- After Río Negro Hot Springs, you’ll come to a gate. Once it opens, drive through and keep going until you reach an intersection with a small school on your left. Turn left at the school.
- After the left turn at the school, drive uphill until you reach a three-way intersection. Here, make a sharp left turn.
- After this turn, make another quick left onto a two-way road. Follow this road straight to reach the Santa María Ranger Station entrance (Look for signs for Santa Maria Sector at the 3 way intersection)
Parking
After you arrive the trail will split into 2, you will go to the right side for parking. The parking is not clearly marked but this national park is not visited often so there is plenty of parking available.
Check in Process
When you go to the left side of the trail you will head toward the large building (the ranger station). Here there a picnic tables and the ranger is there. You will show the ranger your ticket and he will go inside to confirm your reservation. He will then bring you out a map of the park you can take a photo of and explain the different trails you can visit.
Facilities
There are 2 female and 2 male bathrooms available at the start of the trail. The bathrooms here are kept clean and maintained
Camping
There is camping available at this national park. At the start of the trail next to the bathrooms is a camping area where you can set up your tent. To camp here you must pay the 4 dollar camping fee in addition to having a ticket to the national park.
Santa Maria Sector: Trails and Attractions
The Santa María Sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park offers a quieter, less-visited alternative. While it has its own unique attractions, such as hot springs and hiking trails, visitors should be aware that the facilities are older and not as modern. The ranger station and rest areas haven’t been updated in recent years, so they may feel a bit worn out.
Additionally, the last part of the road leading to the Santa María Sector is not in the best condition. It is rought with unpaved sections, lots of rocks and bumps, making it more challenging to reach. Visitors driving themselves should consider using high cleareance vehicle to navigate the uneven terrain comfortably.
Despite these limitations, the Santa María Sector still offers a beautiful and more secluded experience for those seeking fewer crowds and a chance to explore this lesser-known side of the park.
Main Trail Summary
| Distance | Duration | Difficulty | Main Attraction |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Trail 6km round trip and 4 Additional Trails | 2-3 hours | Easy-Moderate | Natural Hot Springs |
Extra Trails Summary
| Hummingbird Trail | Pailas Agua Fria Trail | Bosque Encantado Waterfall Trail | Morpho Waterfall Trail | Trail to Las Pailas |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 500 Meter Loop | 1.6km Round Trip | 200 Meters Round Trip | 600 Meters Round Trip | 14km Round Trip |
Santa Maria Trail Attractions
Agua Termales (Hot Springs)
The main attraction at the Santa Maria Sector is to the natural hot springs. This is a 3km walk to natural hot springs where a cool river runs alongside the warm hot springs. You will see a contrast in color between the 2 areas, where the white and green rocks mark the hot springs due to the minerals in the water and you will see dark grey, brown and black rocks marking the cool river.
Along the trail you can explore for different detours, each leading to unique attractions. While the hot springs are a great place to relax in the volcanic waters be prepared for a strong smell of sulphur from the volcano so you may not want to swim for too long. After visiting the hot springs you can walk straight back down the main trail back to the ranger station.
Sendero Colibrí (Hummingbird Trail)
The first detour you will come across is to the Hummingbird trail. This trail is a 500 meter loop that takes you back to the start of the park. It is best to take this detour on your return journey because it leads back to the trail head. Along the hike you will go through one river crossing and that will lead you to the remnants of a sugar cane mill. Santa Maria used to be a cattle ranch and this is the original equipment from the ranch. Here you can see the equipment used to process the sugar and read about the history of the ranch.
Pailas de Agua Fría (Cold Water Pools)
The trip to the Cold Water Pools is the longest detour in the park. It is a 1.6km detour round trip that takes you to ponds of bubbling water. Here you can see how the geothermal heat from the volcanic ground creates cracks in the earth leading to the bubbles. Unlike you would expect, despite the bubbling, these ponds are filled with cold water.
Catarata Bosque Encantado (Enchanted Forest Waterfall)
The trail to the Enchanted Forest Waterfall is a moderate hike that is 200 meters round trip. This trail will take you through the lush greenery untill you finally reach 2 enchanting waterfalls. Here you can swim in the pools below the waterfall. These waterfalls get their water from the Zopilote River.
Morpho Waterfall
The trail to Morpho Waterfall is named after the striking blue morpho butterflies frequently seen in the area. This hidden gem is the largest waterfall you will see on this hike. It is a 600 meter detour round trip that leads you to the perfect swimming spot to cool off after the hike. Also, after swimming in the cool waters you will be ready to jump in the hot springs.
Las Pailas Sector connecting Trail from Santa Maria
You can access the Las Pailas sector from the Santa Maria sector. You will see the entrance to this sector right before you get to the hot springs. The hike connecting the 2 sectors is 7km each direction.
The Lookout
A scenic viewpoint that provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, forests, and valleys. Perfect for capturing the beauty of the park and its landscapes.
Additional Important Information for Santa Maria
River Crossings
There are 5 different river crossings you will make on this hike. The height of these river crossings will change depending on the season and the recent rain. Some of these river crossings have ropes positioned to hold onto or boards positioned you can walk across.
Swimming
Here they do not endorse swimming in the water such as the waterfalls and hot springs. The park ranger will tell you that if you choose to swim you are doing it at your own risk and they are not responsible.
Wildlife
There is a variety of wildlife on this trail and you may be more likely to see it in this sector than the Las Pailas Sector since it is more secluded. Wildlife can be unpredictable so it is never guaranteed on this hike but some animals you may see are toucans, snakes, monkeys, birds, etc.
| What to Wear / Bring |
|---|
| Closed toed shoes/ hiking shoes |
| Long Sleeves and pants (there are a lot of mosquitoes and bugs) |
| Sunscreen |
| Swimsuit / Towel |
| Water / Snacks |
History of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
The Rincón de la Vieja volcano, one of Costa Rica’s many geological landmarks with a rich history and cultural significance. Located in the Guanacaste Province, this active volcano has been a focal point of local indigenous legends, including Princess Curubanda. The name Rincón de la Vieja translates to “Corner of the Old Woman”. The volcano continues to play an essential role in Costa Rica’s natural and cultural heritage, attracting visitors for both its geology, history and legends.
The Legend of the Princess of Curubanda
The legend of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano is about Princess Curubanda, a young woman from the Curubandé tribe who fell in love with Prince Mixcoac, who was the son of an enemy chief. Their love was forbidden, and when her father found out about them, he reacted with anger. He then killed Prince Mixcoac by throwing him into the crater of the volcano. Heartbroken, Curubanda ran off to the volcano, where people say she became a wise healer, using the natural springs and healing plants, earning her the name “the old woman” of the volcano. The volcano is still called “Rincón de la Vieja” or “Corner of the Old Woman” in memory of her story.
The Geothermal Activity of Rincon de la Vieja Volcano
The Costa Rican Electricity Institute (ICE), located in Curubandé, Costa Rica, uses the geothermal activity of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano to produce clean, renewable energy. Through the Las Pailas Geothermal Power Plant, ICE uses the underground heat generated by the volcanic activity, using wells to bring hot fluids to the surface. These fluids drive turbines, creating electricity that powers local communities.
ICE’s is committed to sustainability and efficiency in renewable energy. This innovative use of geothermal energy shows Costa Rica’s dedication to renewable energy, and makes ICE a leader in sustainable energy production.
Nearby Hotels
Hacienda Guachipelin
Distance from Rincon de la Vieja National Park: 4.7km or 8 minutes
Hacienda Guachipelin, located in Curubandé, Costa Rica, is an eco-lodge at the foot of the Rincón de la Vieja Volcano. Guests can enjoy outdoor activities, such as horseback riding, zip-lining, and hiking, as well as guided tours to nearby waterfalls and volcanic landscapes. Hacienda Guachipelin is a popular destination for travelers looking for a mix of activities and relaxation.
Cañon de la Vieja Lodge
Distance from Rincon de la Vieja National Park: 18km or 29 minutes
Cañon de la Vieja Lodge in Curubandé, Costa Rica, is an eco-lodge just down the road from Rincón de la Vieja National Park. While here you can also experience a variety of different activities as well as hot springs you can relax in.
Casa de Campo Aroma de Campo
Distance from Rincon de la Vieja National Park: 8.5km or 15 minutes
Casa de Campo Aroma de Campo is a cozy, family-run bed and breakfast in Curubandé, Costa Rica. They are known for warm hospitality and a relaxing environment surrounded by lush gardens. Here you have easy access to the national park for hiking and exploring. Aroma de Campo provides a peaceful retreat for travelers looking for an authentic Costa Rican experience.
