La Leona Waterfall & Rio Colorado Tubing: Rincon de la Vieja

Three hours hiking, then rapids: waterfall and tubing in one day

This six-hour activity combines a three-hour hike through Rincon de la Vieja's dry tropical forest to La Leona waterfall with a tubing run down Rio Colorado's class 2–3 rapids, followed by a traditional meal. A live guide in English, Spanish or French leads the group. Hotel pickup and lunch are included. The hike crosses both river and forest floor to reach the hidden waterfall, and the tubing section delivers adrenaline without extreme difficulty.

Step-by-step itinerary

Hike, tubing, and traditional meal

• Hike 3 hours to La Leona waterfall
• Tube down Rio Colorado rapids
• Enjoy traditional meal and share stories

The experience

How do you pack a waterfall hike and whitewater tubing into one morning? This combo starts with a three-hour trek through the dry tropical forest around Rincon de la Vieja Volcano, the largest volcano in diameter in Costa Rica. The trail alternates between river crossings and forest floor, building toward La Leona waterfall: a spot most visitors never find on their own. The hike is steady but not technical. The guide sets the pace and points out the landscape as you move through it.

After the waterfall, you switch to a tube and head down Rio Colorado. The rapids run class 2 to 3: enough current to keep things moving and your heart rate up, but not so steep that you're fighting for control the whole way. The guide briefs you on technique before you launch, and the run itself takes the adrenaline spike the hike built toward. Once you're back on dry land, the group gathers for a traditional Costa Rican meal, a chance to catch your breath and trade photos and stories from the morning.

An air-conditioned vehicle picks you up from your hotel and brings you back when the day ends. The guide speaks English, Spanish or French depending on the group. Lunch is included in the price. Gratuities for the driver and guides are separate.

What’s included

• Three-hour guided hike to La Leona waterfall.
• tubing down Rio Colorado with class 2–3 rapids.
• traditional lunch.
• hotel pickup and return in an air-conditioned vehicle.
• live guide in English, Spanish or French.

Before you book

Days and timesMonday to SaturdayDeparts at 07:00

AgesAdult (12 and older) · Child (3 to 11 years) · Infant (1 to 2 years): free

GroupUp to 24

Live guideEnglish, Spanish and French

Meeting point and pickupHotel pickup included.

Cancellation and refundsFree cancellation up to 24 h before the start. After that, no refund.It may be canceled due to bad weather or if the minimum number of travelers isn't reached. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund.

Prices and times updated 6 days ago

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersInfants must sit on laps

Operated by Costour

Is this one for you?Book this if you want both hiking and whitewater in one morning: the hike covers three hours through forest and river sections, then you tube class 2–3 rapids, all in a shared group with one guide managing the route.

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Top questions

What languages is the guide in?

Live guide in English, Spanish and French.

Can children come?

Yes. Ticket types: Child (3 to 11 years); Infant (1 to 2 years): free.

What happens if it rains?

It may be canceled due to bad weather. If that happens, you're offered another date or a refund. Free cancellation up to 24 h before the start.

How difficult is the three-hour hike to La Leona waterfall?

The hike crosses both river and forest floor at a steady pace suitable for all fitness levels. The guide leads and adjusts the speed to the group. It is not a technical climb, but you will be moving uphill and through water for the full three hours.

What are class 2 to 3 rapids like for someone who has never tubed before?

Class 2–3 rapids have enough current to move the tube along and create excitement without requiring advanced skills. The guide gives a safety briefing and technique tips before you launch, and you are not navigating solo. The guide is with the group throughout the run.

What should I bring or wear for the hike and tubing?

Wear clothes that can get wet and dry quickly, plus water shoes or sandals with a strap that won't slip off in the river. Bring sunscreen, a hat and a waterproof bag for your phone or camera if you want to protect it during the tubing section.

Does the price include food, or do I need to budget for lunch separately?

Lunch is included in the activity price. After the tubing, the group shares a traditional Costa Rican meal together before heading back to your hotel.

What time does the day start, and when will I be back at my hotel?

The activity runs six hours total, including the hike, tubing, meal and travel time. Hotel pickup is included. The guide will confirm your pickup time when you book based on your location.