Audio Guide of Rincón de la Vieja National Park

The park is open daily from 8:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., with last entry at 3:00 p.m. To get there from Liberia, take Route 1 north for about 25 km to the main entrance in Curubandé; renting a 4x4 vehicle or joining a guided tour is recommended. More details are available on the official SINAC website.

The entrance fee is USD 15 for foreign adults, USD 5 for children, and Costa Rican residents pay less; it is not free. You can buy tickets at the entrance or online through the SINAC system, and there are discounts for students with ID. Check updated prices at SINAC.

It is recommended to set aside at least one full day (6-8 hours) to explore the main trails and attractions such as the hot springs, but for a complete experience, consider two days with an overnight stay. If you are taking a short excursion, 4 hours are enough for the essentials.

The park, established in 1973, protects Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, which is active and sacred to the Chorotega people, who called it the 'house of the old woman' because of a legend about a goddess who watches over the place. It is a key site for Guanacaste's biodiversity and for Costa Rica's geological research.

The dry season from December to April is ideal for avoiding rain and enjoying clear trails, preferably early in the morning (around 8:00 a.m.) for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Avoid afternoons in the rainy season (May-November) because of possible storms.

Some trails, such as Las Pailas, are partially accessible with ramps and paved paths, but many require moderate hiking on uneven terrain and are not suitable for wheelchairs. We recommend contacting the park at +506 2666-3535 for adapted options or inclusive guided tours.

Nearby, in Liberia, visit Guanacaste Cathedral or the Guanacaste Museum, both just 30 minutes away by car; you can also extend your trip to the beaches of Playas del Coco or Palo Verde National Park for birdwatching, about an hour away. Explore more at Visit Costa Rica.

Bring insect repellent, sunscreen, plenty of water, and comfortable shoes for the trails; book guides if you are a beginner to learn about the flora and fauna. Do not forget your passport for entry and check the weather; for more tips, call the visitor center at +506 2666-5075.