Tour Operators
Buena Vista Lodge & Adventure. An hour's drive west of the park, this lodge lies on a large ranch where visitors enjoy horseback riding, waterfall hikes, a canopy tour, hanging bridges, and hot springs. Tours are $20 to $50 per person; a combination tour that lasts six to seven hours costs $85, including lunch. Western slope of volcano, 10 km (6 miles) north of Cañas Dulces, near Borinquen Mountain Resort, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, 50102. 2690–1414; www.buenavistalodgecr.com. From $20.
Eco Explorer. Ranked among the top guides in Costa Rica, Carlos Luis Jiménez of Eco Explorer offers birding, nature, and adventure tours to national parks in the Liberia and Papagayo areas. Day tours to Rincón de la Vieja, Santa Rosa, and Palo Verde must be reserved 48 hours in advance; they begin at 5:30 or 7:30 am and last until 3 or 5 pm, depending on the package. Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste. 8927–9630. From $100.
Hacienda Guachipelín Adventure Tours. This experienced outfitter has the most exciting tours in the area, including horseback riding, river tubing, hot springs and mud baths, guided waterfall hikes, and hikes on the slopes of the national park volcano (from $25 to $62). The popular canopy tour includes rock climbing, rappelling, ziplines, suspension bridges, and a Tarzan swing. The one-day, all-you-can-do adventure pass, including lunch, is a great deal. Road to Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste, 50105. 2690–2900; 888/730–3840; www.guachipelin.com. From $25.
Tours Your Way. Playas del Coco–based Mainor Lara Bustos guides tours to Rincón de la Vieja or Palo Verde for $120, including transportation, entrance fees, lunch, and snacks. Ask about family discounts. Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste. 8820–1829; www.tours-your-way.com.
Sensoria. If you want to experience the area's natural attractions without all the adrenaline-pumping activities, Sensoria has peaceful jungle trails, waterfalls, pools, and an observation tower. The entrance fee includes lunch and a guided three-hour hike during which you'll visit vibrant blue waterfalls, hot springs, and natural pools. Bring a change of clothes, bug spray, and water shoes. The hiking tour begins daily at 9:30 am. Tours are by reservation only, and no children under six are allowed. Rincón de la Vieja National Park, Guanacaste. 506/2288–6229; www.sensoria.cr. $120.
