Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
Relax in natural hot springs and enjoy a volcanic mud bath in Rincon de la Vieja
📍40 min from Liberia (Guanacaste)
⏱ Typically 1.5-2 Hrs
♨️ 10 Thermal Pools
🌋 Volcanic Mud Bath Included
📋 Open Daily 9am –5pm
See What to Expect at Rio Negro Hot Springs
Elliot Ziebart · Google Reviews
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
“My group and I did the guided hike to Leona falls and it was amazing! The hike is beautiful. We got to swim and do a little bit of cliff jumping as well. We saw bats and a monkey! After the hike, we went and had a delicious buffet style lunch and then relaxed with a mud bath, cool dip in the river, and then hot springs. So amazing, highly recommend! Our tour guide, Bernie, was with us all day and made the day even better.”
Why Visit Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath?
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath are the closest hot springs to the Las Pailas sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park and offer the perfect place to relax after an adventurous morning in the volcanic region.
The 10 natural thermal pools, heated by the active Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, are beautifully located on both sides of the Rio Negro and connected by scenic hanging bridges.
Cool off in the river between the hot springs and enjoy a rejuvenating volcanic mud bath, known for its cleansing properties.
Your visit also includes a short forest walk where you can discover four small waterfalls, take a refreshing swim and enjoy the sights and sounds of nature.
See what awaits at Rio Negro Hot Springs and secure your spot today!
Rio Negro Hot Springs – Booking Options
You can book these Rincon de la Vieja hot springs as a self-drive trip or with transportation included for the most comfortable and stress-free experience.
Self-Drive Visit
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 and Mud Bath.
Transportation Included
Hotel Pickup Service throughout Guanacaste
⭐ Most convenient option – we take care of everything
Our driver will pick you up at your hotel, Airbnb, or preferred location, take you to the hot springs, wait for you, and drive you back afterward.
RIO NEGRO HOT SPRINGS TICKETS
ℹ️ Rio Negro Hot Springs is a self-guided experience, and the ticket does not include a guide. The trails, pools and facilities are clearly marked, allowing you to explore the hot springs independently at your own pace.
ENTRANCE FEE
Adult (13+) ………………………………… $ 35
Children (4-12) ………………………… $ 30
OPENING HOURS
Every Day from 9am – 5pm
Last entry: 1:30pm
→ Payment Methods: Book your Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets online with Credit/Debit Card or PayPal
⚠️ Entry slots are limited. We recommend reserving in advance.
⭐ Traveler Tip
Rio Negro Hot Springs + La Leona Waterfall
Combine a visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs with one of the best waterfall hikes in Costa Rica.
To reach La Leona Waterfall, you follow an adventurous jungle trail, climb over rocks and swim through an epic river canyon. After the hike, the natural thermal pools at Rio Negro Hot Springs are the perfect place to relax.
Rio Negro Hot Springs – What to Expect
Follow along as we show you around at Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath in Costa Rica.
Arrival & First Hot Spring Pools
Pick up your towels at reception and take a 10-minute walk through the forest, passing two changing rooms along the way.
Soon, you’ll reach the hot spring pools, beautifully located on both sides of the Rio Negro.
The first pool you’ll reach (Pool 9) is one of the hottest, at 45°C (113°F).
If you prefer to start more gently, continue along the path to Pools 5–8, which offer slightly cooler temperatures.
Hanging Bridges & Volcanic Mud Bath
Cross the hanging bridges to move between the pools on both sides of the river and reach the 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.
The volcanic mud is known for its cleansing properties, leaving your skin feeling smooth and refreshed.
Hot Springs & Rio Negro
After it has dried for a while, rinse off the volcanic mud in the river or at the showers.
Take your time enjoying thermal pools 1–4 on this side of the Rio Negro, and relax while listening to the sounds of the jungle and the flowing river.
Between the hot spring pools, you can cool off in the Rio Negro for a refreshing contrast between warm and cool water.
Rio Negro Waterfalls 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 last 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?
⚠️ Entry slots are limited, reserve your spot now!
Rio Negro Hot Springs – Reviews
Many visitors combine Rio Negro Hot Springs with other Rincon de la Vieja tours for the perfect mix of adventure, relaxation and nature. See what they say about their experiences.
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Melanie Graybill · Google Reviews
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“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!!”
Is Rio Negro Hot Springs Right for You?
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.
Rio Negro Hot Springs – Practical Information
How to Get to Rio Negro Hot Springs
Located only 10 minutes from Rincon de la Vieja National Park, Rio Negro Hot Springs makes a great day trip and is 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.
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
Rio Negro Hot Springs Directions
💡 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 about 5 km north on Highway 1.
2️⃣ Turn right when you see signs pointing to Rincon de la Vieja National Park.
3️⃣ Continue for about 20 minutes, passing through the village of Curubandé.
4️⃣Enter the property of Hacienda Guachipelín through the security gate, continue to the main building and turn right following the sign “Adventure Tours”.
5️⃣ Continue straight for about 5 minutes, then turn right when you see signs for Rio Negro Hot Springs.
6️⃣ Follow the road for a few more minutes until you reach the parking area and reception on the right.
Entrance to the parking area 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
Enjoy convenient shuttle service throughout Guanacaste.
What to Bring & What’s Included
We recommend bringing the following items for a comfortable stay at Rio Negro Hot Springs in Rincon de la Vieja.
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
✔️ Free Parking
✔️ Access to the hot springs, volcanic mudbath and waterfall trail
Visitor Facilities
At Rio Negro Hot Springs near Liberia, you’ll find all the essential facilities you need before and after your visit.
✔️ Free Parking
✔️ Restrooms & Changing Rooms
✔️ Showers available
✔️ Picnic areas
Explore Rio Negro Hot Springs Combo Tours
The Rincon de la Vieja region offers plenty of adventure tours, scenic hikes and nature experiences. Many visitors combine Rio Negro Hot Springs with other nearby attractions to make the most of their day in Guanacaste.
La Leona Waterfall + Rio Negro Hot Springs
Hike through tropical forest, swim through an epic river canyon to reach the spectacular La Leona Waterfall and relax in the natural pools at Rio Negro Hot Springs afterward.
White Water River Tubing + Rio Negro Hot Springs
Splash through exciting Class I–III rapids on the Colorado River, then relax in the natural thermal pools and enjoy a volcanic mud bath at Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Las Pailas Trail + Oropendola Waterfall + Lunch + Hot Springs
Explore volcanic activity along the Las Pailas Trail, cool off at Oropendola Waterfall, enjoy a Costa Rican lunch and end your day relaxing at Rio Negro Hot Springs.
About Rincon de la Vieja Tours and Transportation
At Rincon de la Vieja Tours and Transportation, we are dedicated to creating unforgettable, eco-friendly experiences while showcasing the natural beauty of Costa Rica to visitors from around the world. Our experienced local guides are passionate about sharing their knowledge and providing safe, fun, and unique adventure tours every day.
Hundreds of travelers have recommended our tours and left 5-star ratings on Google Reviews. Read about our guests’ experiences and follow us on social media for more photos, videos, and tour updates.
See what awaits on our tours
and real visitor experiences
Ready to visit Rio Negro Hot Springs?
⚠️ Spots fill up quickly – Advance reservations are required
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath – 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.
How much is the Rio Negro Hot Springs entrance fee?
The Rio Negro Hot Springs entrance fee is $35 for adults (age 13+) and $30 for children (ages 4–12; children under 4 enter for free). 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.
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.
Can you visit Rio Negro Hot Springs without a tour?
Yes, you can visit Rio Negro Hot Springs on your own without a guide. Throughout the area clear signs show you 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.
How long should I spend at Rio Negro Hot Springs?
Most visitors spend around 1.5 to 2 hours at Rio Negro Hot Springs. The exact time can vary depending on whether you plan to visit the waterfalls and how long you’d like to relax in the thermal pools.
Where are Rio Negro Hot Springs located?
Rio Negro Hot Springs are located near Rincon de la Vieja National Park in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. They are the closest hot springs to the Las Pailas sector, about a 10-minute drive away, and approximately 40 minutes from Liberia.
Is transportation to Rio Negro Hot Springs available?
Yes, you can book transportation together with your Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets or as part of a combo tour, making it the easiest and most convenient way to reach Rio Negro Hot Springs.
How far are Rio Negro Hot Springs from Rincon de la Vieja National Park?
Rio Negro Hot Springs are the closest hot springs to the Las Pailas sector of Rincon de la Vieja National Park, only about a 10-minute drive away. This makes them the perfect place to relax after hiking in the national park or enjoying another adventure tours in the region.
What is the best time to visit Rio Negro Hot Springs?
Rio Negro Hot Springs in Costa Rica can be visited year-round, but your experience may vary depending on the season.
During the dry season in the Rincon de la Veja region (late November to August), you can expect sunny weather almost every day, making it the most popular time to visit.
In contrast, during the rainy season (September and October), it rains almost every day, but usually only for a few hours in the afternoon. The vegetation gets greener and denser, making it a great time to visit the hot springs as well.
Do I need to book Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets in advance?
Yes, we recommend booking Rio Negro Hot Springs tickets in advance, as slots can fill up quickly, especially during high season.
What are the benefits of the hot springs and mud bath?
The Rincon de la Vieja hot springs offer many natural benefits. The Volcanic mud is known for its cleansing and regenerative properties, and the mineral-rich thermal waters may help relax your muscles. If you take a refreshing swim in the river between the thermal pools, the contrast between the warm pools and the cool river can improve circulation.
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.