Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park and Oropendola Waterfall
Discover a UNESCO World Heritage volcanic landscape with the guidance of biologists and certified naturalist guides
Meet the wildlife, forests, and hidden waters of this unique spot
Experience the Guanacaste Volcanic Range alongside a biologist or naturalist as you explore one of Costa Rica’s most dynamic landscapes. Walk the Las Pailas Loop Trail among bubbling mud pots, fumaroles, tropical forest, and wildlife — all shaped by an active volcano.
After the hike, cool off at the spectacular Oropéndola Waterfall, where a year-round cascade plunges into a crystal-clear turquoise pool.
Highlights:
- Learn about flora, fauna, and funga with a biologist or certified naturalist.
- Explore a sector of the park famous for its active geology and contrasting ecosystems.
- Swim beneath the crystal-clear, year-round Oropéndola Waterfall.
- Cross a scenic hanging bridge into Oropéndola’s volcanic canyon.
Inclusions:
- Private Biologist or Certified Naturalist Guide
- Optical Equipment (Spotting Scope or Binoculars)
- National Park Entrance Fee ($17pp)
- Oropéndola Waterfall Entrance & Road Toll (.$27 pp)
- Lunch, Snacks and Fruit
-1% of sales go to NGO Funga Conservation
- $2pp to Avellanas Mangrove Protection Program
This tour is typically operated using the guests’ vehicle; your guide will meet you at the agreed location and join your transportation for the experience
Meeting Point: Curubandé Town, Liberia Downtown, or a convenient intermediate location along the route.
Private Transportation Available as an Add-On. Contact us for a personalized transportation quote.
Sample Itinerary
- 6:15-8:30 AM: Meet your guide in Curubandé, Liberia Downtown, or an agreed midpoint.
- 9:00 AM: Arrive at the entrance of Rincón de la Vieja and begin the Las Pailas Loop Trail (approx. 2 hours).
- 11:30 AM: Finish the hike and enjoy snacks and fruit, and get ready for the waterfall.
- 12:00 MD: Walk to Oropéndola Waterfall. Cross its hanging bridge and descend into a beautiful crystal-clear pool.
- 1:00 PM: Traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant.
- 2:00-4:30 PM: Return of the Meeting Point and end of the Tour
*Times may vary depending on meeting location and seasonal conditions.
What to bring for the Tour:
- Sun Protection
- Hiking Shoes
- Rain Gear (May to Dec)
- Swinwear, Towel or change of clothes
- Reusable Bottle of Water
- Insect Repellent
Rincón de La Vieja National Park
On Mondays, the National Park is closed.
Difficulty Level: intermediate (4km with ups and downs).