Once at the park we can use the restrooms and get ready to start our hike of approximately 2 hours through Las Pailas trail, where we can see one of Costa Rica’s most active volcanoes. Steaming fumaroles, mini-geysers and bubbling volcanic mud pits.We will hike Las Pailas loop trail 2.5 miles (3.5 km) through dry tropical forest to see the best views of the volcano, incredible nature, volcanic activity and wildlife. The park is home to more than 300 bird species, and other animals like armadillos, collared peccaries, iguanas, snakes, white-nosed coatis, and white-faced, howler and spider monkeys.

When we finish our hike, get ready for a refreshing swim in the Oropendola waterfall. It is a short walk from the national park entrance on a trail with varying terrain to get down to the river bottom. The Oropendola waterfall plunges an impressive 82 feet (25 meters) to a sparkling turquoise pool in the lush canyon of the Rio Blanco (White River), creating a picturesque tropical oasis.

Rich in minerals, thermal waters have rejuvenating and therapeutic properties that have been appreciated for centuries by people around the world. Beautiful and relaxing, the volcanic hot springs bubble up on the Rio Negro, naturally heated by the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano — the largest and most active volcano in Guanacaste, Costa Rica. Surrounded by a dense dry tropical forest, the Rio Negro Hot Springs area is beautiful and peaceful. The crystal clear waters of the river flow near the 10 pools built on the riverbank, filled with thermal waters rich in minerals, naturally heated in the depths of the volcano. You can access the pools on both banks of the river thanks to two suspension bridges. For a rejuvenating treatment on your body, you can use the hot volcanic mud, which works just like a spa body masque. When the mud dries, you can wash it in the cold waters of the river before entering the thermal water pools again.