📍40 min from Liberia, Rincon de la Vieja
✅ Suitable for all Ages
⭐ 5.0 Google Reviews
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
Enjoying natural hot springs and a volcanic mud bath is one of the most relaxing ways to experience the geothermal activity of the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano in Guanacaste.
Located directly along the Rio Negro River and surrounded by tropical forest, Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath is the perfect place to slow down, connect with nature and relax after an adventurous morning in the Rincon de la Vieja region.
See what awaits at Rio Negro Hot Springs and secure your tickets today!
Why Visit Rio Negro Hot Springs?
✔️ 10 Hot Spring Pools
Choose between 10 thermal pools with temperatures from 35°C–45°C (95°F–113°F).
✔️ Connect with Nature
Relax surrounded by tropical forest and the sounds of nature.
✔️ Rio Negro River Access
The hot springs are located on both sides of the river, where you can cool off between the thermal pools.
✔️ Volcanic Mud Bath
Enjoy a rejuvenating volcanic mud bath, known for its detoxifying and cleansing properties.
✔️ Waterfall Trail
Access to a short forest trail with four small waterfalls is included.
✔️ Scenic Hanging Bridges
Cross two hanging bridges connecting both sides of the hot springs, with views of the forest and Rio Negro River.
Rio Negro Hot Springs – Location
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath are the closest hot springs to the Las Pailas sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, located only 10 minutes away and about 40 minutes from Liberia in Guanacaste.
Rio Negro Hot Springs on Google Maps
Entrance and parking at Rio Negro Hot Springs
Rio Negro Hot Springs – Booking Options
Book Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath in Rincon de la Vieja as a self-drive trip or with transportation included.
🚗
Self-Drive Option
Arrive Directly at Rio Negro Hot Springs
Best if you have your own car or prefer to travel independently
Free parking is available at Rio Negro Hot Springs.
🚐
Transportation Included
Hotel Pickup Service throughout Guanacaste
⭐ Most convenient option – we take care of everything
Our driver will pick you up at your preferred location, take you to the hot springs and drive you back after your visit.
⚠️ Advance booking recommended – Entry slots are limited and can fill up quickly.
⭐ Looking for a Full-Day Trip?
Combine Rio Negro Hot Springs with a traditional lunch and other top-rated Rincon de la Vieja adventure tours to make the most of your day in Guanacaste.
Choose between the famous La Leona Waterfall hike, exciting river tubing, Rincon de la Vieja National Park or Oropendola Waterfall.
Rio Negro Hot Springs – What to Expect
Follow along as we show you what awaits at Rio Negro Hot Springs near Liberia.
Arrival & Forest Walk
Pick up your towels at the reception and take a 10-minute walk through the forest, passing two changing rooms along the way.
First Thermal Pools
Soon you’ll reach the hot spring pools, beautifully located on both sides of the Rio Negro River and connected by two hanging bridges.
Enjoy the Hot Springs
Choose the thermal pool with the perfect temperature for you and let the warm water relax your muscles.
Scenic Views
Cross the hanging bridges to move between the pools on both sides of the river and reach the volcanic mud bath.
Volcanic Mud Bath
Get a bowl of mineral-rich mud, apply it all over your body and let it dry for a few minutes while enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
Cool Off
Rinse off the volcanic mud in the refreshing Rio Negro River or at the showers, then enjoy the hot spring pools on this side.
Waterfall Trail
To explore the waterfalls, head back to the parking lot and cross the street to enter the trail.
After just a few minutes, you’ll reach the first of four scenic waterfalls, flowing through the tropical forest into natural pools.
The trail is well maintained, clearly marked with signs, and it takes only about 15 minutes to reach the fourth waterfall.
Take a swim in the natural pools, enjoy a snack at the picnic tables and relax in the peaceful forest setting.
Ready to visit Rio Negro Hot Springs yourself?
⚠️ Entry slots are limited, reserve your spot now!
Rio Negro Hot Springs Reviews
Many visitors combine their adventure tours in Rincon de la Vieja with a relaxing visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs.
See what our guests say about their experiences.
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Melanie Graybill · Google Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“We had an amazing experience on our Rincón de la Vieja tour, and our guide Andrey was absolutely fantastic! He was knowledgeable, friendly, and made the entire day so much fun. The tour included everything we were hoping for — a beautiful waterfall, relaxing hot springs, and a super fun mud bath. Lunch was good. Transportation was included as well, which made the whole experience easy and stress-free. We couldn’t have asked for a better guide or a better day. Highly recommend this tour and especially Andrey!“
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Kelly Novak · Google Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“This tour with transportation was nothing short of amazing. Our guide was so friendly and attentive. The pick-up and drop-off were seamless with our resort. The waterfall was fairly easily accessed and had truly stunning views. The hot springs also offered a unique experience in a beautiful place. The included lunch was also authentic and plentiful. Andrey was the best guide, being very patient, taking plenty of photos of us, and had a great attitude. Highly recommend!!”
⚠️ Important Information
These Rincon de la Vieja hot springs are suitable for most visitors. However, the high temperatures and the uneven terrain may not be ideal for everyone.
Who is this tour NOT suitable for?
❌ Not suitable for:
Visitors with walking or mobility limitations due to uneven terrain and stairs
⚠️ Use caution if:
- Pregnant
- You have high blood pressure or heart conditions
💡Good to know:
✔️ Don’t put your head under the water in the thermal pools.
✔️ Remove any silver jewelry before entering the hot springs or using the mud bath, as it can darken due to the volcanic minerals.
✔️ We recommend entering the pools slowly and allowing your body to adjust to the heat. It’s best to take breaks, stay hydrated, and avoid spending too much time in the hottest pools.
Practical Information
⏱️ Rio Negro Hot Springs Opening Hours
These Rincon de la Vieja hot springs are open every day from 9am-5pm with the last entry at 1:30pm.
📍 How to Get to Rio Negro Hot Springs
Located only 10 minutes from Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Rio Negro Hot Springs is perfect for a day trip and easy to combine with many nearby adventure tours. You can get there by car or choose a tour with transportation included for the most convenient option. There is no public transportation directly to Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Directions From Liberia
💡 You don’t need a 4×4 vehicle to get to Rio Negro Hot Springs, but drive carefully as parts of the road may have potholes.
1️⃣ From Liberia, drive north for about 5 km along Highway #1.
2️⃣ Turn right when you see signs pointing to Rincon de la Vieja National Park and continue for about 20 minutes.
3️⃣ Enter the property of Hacienda Guachipelín through the security gate, continue to the main building and turn right following the sign “Adventure Tours”.
4️⃣ Continue straight for about 5 minutes, then turn right when you see signs for Rio Negro Hot Springs.
5️⃣ Follow the road for a few more minutes until you reach the parking area and reception on the right.
Entrance and parking lot of Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath.
Transportation to Rio Negro Hot Springs
If you don’t have a car available, or simply prefer the most convenient option, you can book Rio Negro Hot Springs with transportation included.
🚐 Why Choose Transportation Included?
✔️ Hotel Pickup throughout Guanacaste
✔️ Flexible transfers: include Rio Negro Hot Springs as a stop between two destinations
✔️ Get the best price by booking transportation together with Rio Negro Hot Springs
✔️ Optional stops on the way for food or souvenirs
Enjoy convenient shuttle service throughout Guanacaste.
What to Bring • What’s Included • Facilities
See what to bring to Rio Negro Hot Springs and the visitor facilities available for a comfortable experience.
🎒 What to Bring
✔️ Swimwear
✔️ Bottle of Water (no water fountains available at the hot springs)
✔️ Sunscreen & bug spray
✔️ If you want to explore the waterfalls: closed-toe shoes or sandals with straps
✅ What’s Included
✔️ Towels for the hot springs
🚻 Visitor Facilities
✔️ Free and secure parking
✔️ Reception (pick up your included towels here)
✔️ Two sets of changing rooms and bathrooms
✔️ Showers
✔️ Picnic Areas
Rio Negro Hot Springs – FAQ
What are the Rio Negro Hot Springs opening hours?
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath is open every day of the year from 9am to 5pm, with the last entry at 1:30pm.
What do Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets cost?
Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets cost $35 for adults (age 13+) and $30 for children (ages 4–12). Included in the price are towels, access to the hot spring pools and Rio Negro River, the volcanic mud bath, the short waterfall trail and free parking.
What do Rio Negro Hot Springs reviews say?
Rio Negro Hot Springs reviews often highlight the beautiful natural setting, the volcanic mud bath and the relaxing hot spring pools. Many visitors also recommend the hot springs as the perfect place to relax after an adventure tour or a hike to La Leona Waterfall, Oropendola Waterfall or Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
Is Rio Negro Hot Springs suitable for kids?
Yes, Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath is a great option for families visiting Rincon de la Vieja with children. The warm thermal pools include many shallow areas that are suitable even for young kids when accompanied by adults.
Kids also usually enjoy crossing the hanging bridges, applying the volcanic mud and exploring the nearby waterfalls.
Is Rio Negro Hot Springs worth it?
Yes, Rio Negro is one of the best natural hot springs near Liberia in Rincon de la Vieja, offering 10 thermal pools overlooking the Rio Negro River, a volcanic mud bath and nearby waterfalls in a beautiful forest setting.
It is a great choice for a half-day visit or can be combined into a full-day adventure with La Leona Waterfall, Oropendola Waterfall, Rincon de la Vieja National Park or river tubing.
Can you visit Rio Negro Hot Springs without a tour?
Yes, you can visit these Rincon de la Vieja hot springs on your own, no guide is required. Throughout the area you can find clear signs showing the location of the thermal pools, facilities, mud bath, and waterfalls, along with additional information.
This allows you to explore the place at your own pace and enjoy the experience for as long as you like within the opening hours.
Are Rio Negro Hot Springs inside Rincon de la Vieja National Park?
No, Rio Negro Hot Springs are not located inside Rincon de la Vieja National Park, but they are the closest hot springs to the popular Las Pailas sector, only about 10 minutes away.
Do I need to book in advance for Rio Negro Hot Springs?
Yes, we recommend booking Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets in advance, as slots can fill up quickly, especially during high season. Besides, the hot springs are located on private property, and without a reservation, an entrance toll of ₡800 per person applies when entering the area.
How far are Rio Negro Hot Springs from Liberia?
Rio Negro is one of the best hot springs near Liberia, located only 40 minutes from the city, making it a perfect Rincon de la Vieja day trip.