Rincon de la Vieja

Yet another volcanic wonderland at the heart of Costa Rica, Rincon de la Vieja is the playfully attractive face of the Guanacaste Conservation Area. Two massive volcanoes dominate the area, and there is no shortage of lava formations on the rugged terrain in the national park. The sky is the limit when it comes to the geothermal energy potential of Rincon. Yet, its national park status saved it from turning into a facility altogether. Today, tourism seems to steal the limelight, as luxury lodges offer therapeutic sessions at the hot springs. It is an experience crowned with the wild cacophony of sounds rising from the forest.

Rincon de la Vieja is famous for soothing adventures from tube-rafting to waterfall-hiking. The park is as much about water as it is about lava, cradling the stupendous Rio Negro at its heart. As the region’s primary water body, the river dominates the picturesque route leading to Las Pailas and Oropendola Waterfall. Pack some river shoes and get your feet in the refreshing waters for the exhilarating hike up to Rincón’s number-one attraction. The waterfall cascades down the forest into a teal-colored pond. You won’t get enough of the tasty views. If you are feeling up to more adventure, take a dip in the pond and revel in the rejuvenating effects of nature.