Rincon de la Vieja: Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs

Summary

Hike volcanic trails swim beneath Oropendola then soak in hot springs

You’ll hike steamy volcanic trails in Rincon de la Vieja with a local guide, spot wildlife and bubbling mud pots, swim beneath Oropendola Waterfall’s blue spray, then recharge over lunch before soaking in Rio Negro’s hot springs and trying a volcanic mud bath. Expect moments that surprise you — sometimes quietly, sometimes with a splash.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t think the ground would actually hiss at me. But right after we stepped into Rincon de la Vieja, our guide José stopped by a patch of steaming earth — yellowish mud bubbling up like it was cooking something from the inside out. The air smelled a bit sharp, almost like eggs left too long in the sun (José grinned and called it “volcano perfume”). We’d barely started the hike and already I was sweating — not just from the heat, but from this weird excitement. Birds flashed overhead; I caught a glimpse of a white-faced monkey swinging through branches. It felt like everything was moving except me.

The trail twisted through trees that looked half-burnt and half-alive, roots everywhere. José pointed out an armadillo scuttling off (I missed it — too slow with my camera). He told us about how locals use some of these plants for medicine, which made me wonder what else I was missing by just looking at my feet. When we finally reached the bubbling mud pots and mini craters, there was this low gurgle under everything — kind of unsettling but also sort of calming? Hard to explain. My shoes got dusty gray from the volcanic soil, which I’m still trying to wash out.

After that hike (honestly more tiring than I’d expected), we followed a short path down to Oropendola Waterfall. The water looked almost fake — crazy blue-green — and cold enough to make me yelp when I jumped in. There were a couple of locals splashing around who laughed at my face when I hit the water. It woke me up better than coffee ever could. Lunch was simple but filling: rice, beans, chicken with that tangy Costa Rican sauce whose name I keep forgetting (Liz tried to teach me but gave up after my third attempt).

By the time we reached Rio Negro hot springs, my legs felt like jelly. Sitting in those warm pools surrounded by forest — steam rising up so you couldn’t see more than a few meters ahead — I finally let myself stop thinking about anything at all. Smearing on volcanic mud felt silly at first but then oddly satisfying as it dried and cracked on my arms. If you’d told me in the morning that I’d end the day covered in mud and happier for it… well, yeah.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Volcano hike, waterfall swim, hot springs

• Hike 3.5 km Las Pailas trail
• Observe wildlife and volcanic activity
• Visit Oropendola Waterfall
• Swim in blue lagoon
• Eat typical Costa Rican lunch
• Relax at Río Negro Hot Springs
• Enjoy volcanic mud bath

Top questions

How long is the volcano hike at Rincon de la Vieja?

The guided hike covers about 3.5 km (2 miles) and takes around 2 hours.

Can you swim at Oropendola Waterfall?

Yes, there’s time to swim or wade in the blue lagoon beneath Oropendola Waterfall after the hike.

Are hotel pickups included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included if your hotel is listed or arranged in advance.

Is lunch provided during the day trip?

Yes, a typical Costa Rican lunch is included after visiting Oropendola Waterfall.

What should I bring for the volcano hike?

You’ll need sturdy walking shoes, swimwear for the waterfall and hot springs, plus your passport or a photo of it.

Are vegetarian meal options available?

Vegetarian meals can be arranged if you mention dietary needs when booking.

How difficult is this day trip from Tamarindo or Flamingo Beach?

The tour requires moderate fitness due to hiking; not recommended for those with poor cardiovascular health.

Is transportation available from Tamarindo Beach or Flamingo Beach?

Yes, pickups are available from both Tamarindo Beach and Flamingo Beach hotels if arranged ahead.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from Tamarindo or Flamingo Beach (or meeting at Rincon de la Vieja entrance), national park entry fees, bottled water throughout the journey, guidance from a bilingual local expert on volcanic activity and wildlife, a traditional Costa Rican lunch after swimming at Oropendola Waterfall, plus all access to Rio Negro hot springs and volcanic mud baths before heading back in an air-conditioned vehicle.