Best Places to Stay in Rincón de la Vieja
An overview of our top recommendations near Rincón de la Vieja Volcano
Beach Time, Volcano Hikes, and Nature Galore
For travelers seeking a beach and volcano experience full of adventure near Guanacaste, staying around the Rincón de la Vieja National Park is totally worth the trip. Not as well known as areas like Arenal, Rincón de la Viejo is still an activity center and definitely has a pull worth sticking around for.
Most people visit Rincón de la Vieja for its volcano. They come from nearby Guanacaste beach communities like Tamarindo, Flamingo, and Papagayo. Usually, they swing by for a quick visit, then head back to the coast. Staying nearby gives you more. There’s plenty of adventure to keep you busy and the tropical dry forest setting offers a quiet environment for nature lovers and outdoors enthusiasts of all ages.
Rincón de la Vieja is one of Costa Rica’s natural gems. The national park protects steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, and hot springs, all surrounded by tropical dry forest and wildlife like howler monkeys, toucans, and coatis. Hiking trails lead to waterfalls and lookout points, and the area is known for adventure activities like horseback riding, tubing, and zip-lining. The volcano itself is active and safe for visitors.
Our Favorite Rincón de la Vieja Hotels
Two standout choices, Hacienda Guachipelín and Borinquen Mountain Resort & Spa, cater to travelers interested in more than just a day trip to Rincón de la Vieja. These properties keep things real, blending everyday amenities with easy access to the area’s offerings.
Hacienda Guachipelín sits next to the national park. It’s a down-to-earth ranch hotel perfect for adventure seekers and families alike. The real draw is the action: activities like zip-lining, horseback riding, tubing, and hiking are all on offer, with tours easy to book at the front desk.
Three hot spring pools fed by the volcano let you soak in mineral-rich waters surrounded by forest, and the restaurant serves hearty Costa Rican meals alongside international dishes. You can explore the ranch’s own trails, hit the pool, or relax on your private porch hearing wildlife nearby.
Borinquen Mountain Resort & Spa is a peaceful retreat for couples or anyone craving relaxation with a side of adventure. The spa here is the star, with massage rooms over a stream, volcanic mud baths, and a sauna heated by natural steam.
Three thermal pools invite you to unwind, while the restaurant dishes out local and international flavors with a bar for evening drinks. The regular Rincón activities (horseback riding, zip-lining, etc) are all available too, so you can mix downtime with some thrills.
Getting to Rincón de la Vieja
Getting to Rincón de la Vieja from Guanacaste’s main spots is straightforward. From Liberia (Guancaste’s main city and home to Guanacaste International Airport), it’s about an hour’s drive on mostly paved roads with some gravel stretches.
Coming from beach towns like Tamarindo, Flamingo, or Papagayo takes between an hour and half to two hours, around 43 to 56 miles (70 to 90 kilometers) depending on your starting point. Roads are decent with paved or firm gravel surfaces, so a standard car works can take you there year-round. However, a 4x4 gives extra traction in the rainy season between May and November.
Public buses run from Liberia to Curubandé, a nearby village, but they’re slow and stop short of most hotels, making driving a better option. Private transfers are the easiest way, with our drivers handling the route from Liberia or the coast, knowing the best stops, and getting you there without hassle.
FAQs about Rincón de la Vieja Accommodations
Where is Rincón de la Vieja located?
In northwestern Costa Rica, spanning Guanacaste and Alajuela provinces, about 23 kilometers northeast of Liberia.
What can you see in Rincón de la Vieja National Park?
Steaming fumaroles, bubbling mud pots, hot springs, plus waterfalls and wildlife like howler monkeys and toucans.
Why is it called Rincón de la Vieja Volcano?
From a legend about a princess whose lover was thrown into the crater, leaving her as a healer on the slopes, meaning “The Old Woman’s Corner.”
What’s Rincón de la Vieja best known for?
An active volcano, hot springs, and outdoor fun like zip-lining, tubing, and horseback riding.
Is staying here worth it?
Yes, if you love nature and adventure over a beach-only trip. It’s quieter with tons to explore.
How many nights should you stay?
Two or three nights give you time to enjoy the trails, hot springs, and activities without rushing. Staying near Rincón de la Vieja beats the day-trip rush. You’re close to trails, hot springs, and adventure, with hotels like Hacienda Guachipelín offering a ranch vibe and Borinquen Mountain Resort & Spa bringing spa comforts.