Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath: A Complete Guide for 2024
Prepare yourself to discover all there is to know about the Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath in Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica. This step-by-step guide will show you everything you need to know to have a flawless experience at the Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Table of Contents
How to Get to Rio Negro Hot Springs
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath is located near the city of Liberia, in the Guanacaste province of Costa Rica. To get to this destination you must head north on highway #1 and make a right turn towards Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Curubandé Town). You will then continue east for approximately 30 minutes until you see the toll. If you have a reservation already inform the security guard of your reservation and you will not need to pay the toll.
Click here to open the location on Google Maps
After arriving at the front gate, you will continue straight until you reach the tour center which will be on your left side. At the tour center you will check in and pick up your wristband. Then you will continue down the same road until you arrive at the Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath reception which will be on your right side.
Tour Description
This tour includes a brief hike to ten diverse thermal pools, followed by a therapeutic volcanic mud experience. You’ll also have access to the Rio Negro riverfront and an extra hike to explore and swim in four additional waterfalls.
Summary
Hours of Operation: This attraction is open every day, from 9 am-6 pm!
Who Can Do The Tour: This tour is tailored for children aged 4 and up. Please note that navigating stairs, crossing hanging bridges, and walking on gravel and dirt trails are necessary to access Rio Negro Hot Springs. Therefore, it is not advised for individuals with walking or mobility issues.
Pricing:
- $34.99 per person for adults (ages 13+)
- $29.99 per person for children (ages 4-12)
- Children under 4 years old is free.
Experiences Included
Explore a variety of different experiences at the Rio Negro Hot Springs! Those experiences include…
- Ten distinct thermal pools, each varying in temperature and depth.
- Riverbank access to the Rio Negro River, conveniently located beside each pool.
- Three hanging bridges to offer a unique hike to access the thermal pools.
- A rejuvenating volcanic mud masque.
- A scenic hike to discover and swim in four unique waterfalls.
The Hike to Rio Negro Hot Springs
The hike to the hot springs typically lasts around 10 minues. This hike includes traversing stairs, dirt and gravel trails, and crossing hanging bridges. Along the way you will encounter maps and signs to ensure you reach the hot springs quickly and safely.
For this activity, you have two options for transportation. You can either drive your own car and park in the parking lot located directly outside reception, or you can arrange transportation to be picked up at your lodging and be dropped off right outside reception. Upon arrival at the parking lot, your first destination will be the reception. Here, you’ll check in and collect your towel.
Following check-in at reception, you’ll cross your initial hanging bridge and head to the top of the first staircase. At the top of the first staircase, you’ll find the first set of restrooms and changing rooms to the right, and the trail to the hot springs to the left.
Next, you’ll proceed along the trail for approximatly 5 minutes until you reach a picnic area and another set of restrooms. Here, you’ll also discover a map to help guide you if you need additional assistance.
After, you will make your way down the next staircase which will lead you to the first thermal pool! This is thermal pool #9.
If you proceed further along the same trail, it will split into two paths.
Option one is to continue down the steps to pools 5, 6, 7, 8 and 10.
Option two is to go to the left across the next hanging bridge. You will then follow the trail to the lower level which includes pools 1, 2, 3, and 4 as well as where you can recieve your volcanic mud masque.
Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath
Rio Negro Hot Springs offer a variety of rejuvenating and therapeutic properties. These hot springs are naturally heated in the depths of the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, creating a beautiful and relaxing environment.
There are 10 different thermal pools to enjoy while at Rio Negro Hot Springs. These pools vary from 35°C (95°F)-45°C (113°F).
The benefits of the thermal pools:
- Activates blood circulation
- Promotes relaxation
- Prevents premature aging
- Eliminates toxins
The Hanging Bridges
There are 3 unique hanging bridges that are used to access the different levels of thermal pools within Rio Negro Hot Springs.
These hanging bridges give you a one of a kind view of the dense, tropical forest surrounding you.
The Volcanic Mud Mask (Mud Bath)
Following your serene soak in the thermal pools, seize the chance to experience the advantages of the volcanic mud masque. The application of the volcanic mud masque will provide a revitalizing body treatment. Subsequently, rinse off the dried masque in the cool and refreshing waters of Rio Negro, leaving your skin refreshed and renewed.
Properties of the hot volcanic mud: This volcanic mud mask is an antiseptic, purifying analgesic, detoxifying, anti-inflammatory and regenorating.
Riverbank Access
There is riverbank access alongside all ten of the thermal pools providing a one of a kind relaxation experience. You will feel surrounded by nature with the sounds of the flowing river and access to the cool waters of Rio Negro at all times during your experience at Rio Negro Hot Springs.
Hidden Waterfalls
Across from the reception there is a waterfall hike where you will have the opprotunity to visit 4 waterfalls all varying in size. At the bottom of each waterfall is a calm pool of cool fresh water to swim in coming from Rio Negro.
Each waterfall is clearly marked with a sign labeled catarata 1-4.
The duration of this hike will take approximately 30 minutes, but it can vary significantly depending on how long you want to spend visiting each waterfall along the way and if you decide to swim in the pools below the waterfalls.
How to Book
Costs:
- Adults: $34.99 per person (Age +13)
- Children: $29.99 per person (Age 4-12)
This activity is not suited for guests with walking, or mobility issues
Tours With Transportation Included
If you opted not to rent a car during your vacation and require pick-up services at your resort, hotel, Airbnb, or wherever you are staying, we’ve got you covered. Our company offers transportation services, and we can seamlessly provide transportation for you and your group to Rio Negro Hot Springs.
The vehicle will drop you off directly outside of the reception providing a smooth check in process upon your arrival.
What to Bring
- Bugspray and suncreen: As you venture into the forest be proactive and apply sunscreen and bug’s spray, as the Costa Rican sun can be deceptive.
- A water bottle: We recommend bringing a water bottle because there aren’t any water fountains around the hot springs so come prepared.
- Appropriate shoes: You will be traveling across some different terains to reach the hot springs and waterfalls so appropatie shoes are essential for your safety and comfort.
- Swimwear: For maximum comfort while relaxing in the thermal pools and river, swimwear is suggested.
- Change of clothes: There are several differnt dressing rooms around the hot springs. We suggest bringing dry clothes to change into after the hot springs.
- Towels will be provided to you at reception.
Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica
Situated in Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica, the Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath are a must see attraction in the area for visitors seeking relaxation and rejuvenation. This area also has numerous other must-visit attractions, revealing the abundant hidden gems awaiting exploration in Rincon de la Vieja, Costa Rica.
Other Attractions in The Area
La Leona Waterfall Adventure Hike
La Leona Waterfall in the Rincon de la Vieja volcano is by far the highest rated tour in the area. It offers an exceptional waterfall experience where you can embark on an adventurous hike, traversing rivers, canyons, and caves, to discover the breathtaking Leona Waterfall tucked away within a hidden cave.
Not suited for guests with knee, ankle, walking, or mobility issues.
White Water River Tubing Tour
Join us for a thrilling river tubing adventure on a narrow, turbulent river with 4km (2.5 miles) of Class I, II and III rapids! Bounce and splash your way through endless fun and excitement with our specially-designed individual rafts that include handles and protective bottoms.
- 4 kilometers (2.5 miles) of Class I , II and III rapids along this narrow, turbulent river of crystal clear waters.
- Duration: 1hr 30min.
The Mega Combo Day Pass
Summary of the Activities
This Extreme Mega Combo Tour near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano is truly one of the best ways to spend a day full of pure adrenaline! Extreme Zip Line Tour – Hanging Bridges – Water Slide – Horseback Riding – Thermal Hot Springs – Lunch
- The longest jungle water slide in Costa Rica (420 meters)
- Jungle Zipline
- Horseback riding
- Tractor safari
- Volcanic mud bath
- Natural hot springs
- Relaxing Volcanic steam sauna
- Costa Rican typical Lunch
FAQ's
Soaking in the mineral-rich waters of Rio Negro Hot Springs can offer numerous health benefits, including relaxation, improved circulation, relief from muscle tension, and even potential skin benefits due to the natural minerals found in the waters. The mud from the springs is also known for its detoxifying and exfoliating properties, leaving your skin feeling rejuvenated.
To get to Rio Negro Hot Springs get to the city of Liberia and head north on highway #1. Then make a right towards Rincon de la Vieja National Park, and just drive straigh until you arrive at Hacienda Guachipelin
Yes, Rio Negro Hot Springs and Mud Bath are generally suitable for visitors of all ages and fitness levels. The temperature of the hot springs can vary, so it’s essential to test the waters before fully immersing yourself, especially for young children or individuals sensitive to heat. Additionally, the mud baths offer a gentle and therapeutic experience, making them accessible to most visitors
Yes, Costa Rica features mud baths, notably at Rio Negro Hot Springs. These baths offer rejuvenating experiences with therapeutic mud sourced from natural volcanic minerals.