Rincon de la Vieja: Private Adventure Combo with Water & Mud

Summary

Horseback ride zipline rafting or tubing plus volcanic mud soak

You’ll ride horseback through dry forest to reach Rincon de la Vieja’s Colorado River, then zipline above treetops before refueling with a local lunch. Choose between rafting or tubing on cool river currents, then unwind with volcanic mud paint and hot springs. Expect laughter, muddy hands, and quiet moments that linger long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

We were already halfway into the forest when I realized how much I’d underestimated the sound of hooves on dry earth — it’s louder than you’d think, almost like a heartbeat under the trees. Our guide, José, kept pointing out birds I could barely spot (he saw a motmot; I just nodded). The air smelled faintly smoky, maybe from the volcano nearby or just the sun baking old leaves. By the time we reached the Colorado River for the next part of this private adventure combo, my legs felt wobbly but in that good way — like you’ve actually done something.

I didn’t expect to laugh so much on the zipline. There was this moment where I hesitated — not scared exactly, just thinking about how far down it looked — and José grinned and said, “Pura vida!” before sending me off. The wind hit my face hard and all I could hear was my own shout echoing through the trees. Afterward, lunch was simple but perfect: casado with rice and beans, some grilled chicken, salad, and cold juice. Sitting there sweaty and happy with everyone else at the table felt oddly grounding. You know those meals where nobody talks much because they’re just hungry? It was like that.

After lunch we had to choose between white water rafting or tubing — I went for tubing because honestly my arms aren’t made for paddling rapids. The river water was colder than expected; it woke me up fast. At one point I spun around backwards and nearly lost a sandal (José fished it out later). The last bit was quieter though — floating past rocks warmed by the sun, everything smelling green and a little sulfurous from the volcano.

The volcanic mud paint part is still stuck in my mind. Smearing cool gray mud on my arms while steam curled up from the hot springs nearby felt both silly and kind of ancient at once. Some folks were laughing at each other’s faces; others just closed their eyes and let it sink in. My skin tingled after rinsing off in the springs — not sure if that’s magic or minerals but either way, it worked. There’s a wet bar too if you want a beer (not included), but honestly I just wanted to sit in silence for a minute before heading back.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Adventure and relaxation at Rincon de la Vieja

• Horseback ride to Colorado River
• Zipline through tropical dry forest
• Lunch at restaurant
• Choose white water rafting or tubing
• Volcanic mud paint and hot springs
• Use shower facilities and towel service
• Access wet bar for drinks

Top questions

How long is the horseback ride during this tour?

The horseback ride lasts about 30 minutes to reach the Colorado River.

Is lunch included in this private adventure combo?

Yes, lunch is included at the restaurant after morning activities.

Can I choose between white water rafting or tubing?

Yes, you can pick either white water rafting or tubing as part of your day trip.

Are drinks provided during transportation?

Beers are included during transportation only—not at the restaurant or hot springs.

Is there access to shower facilities after activities?

Yes, shower facilities and towel service are available after your adventures.

What kind of food is served for lunch?

The menu includes casado: rice, beans, salad, protein (like chicken), and natural juice.

Are there any health restrictions for this tour?

This tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or poor cardiovascular health.

Where does this adventure take place?

The tour is based at Curubande near Rincon de la Vieja Volcano in Costa Rica.

What’s included

Your day covers bottled water throughout all activities plus snacks along the way; beers are served during transport; a full local lunch is provided at the onsite restaurant; you’ll have access to shower facilities with towels after your river adventure; all equipment for horseback riding, ziplining, rafting or tubing is included; plus time to enjoy volcanic mud paint and soak in natural hot springs before heading back homeward.