Description:Rincon de la Vieja is an active volcano located 16 miles north from Liberia in Guanacaste. The volcano boasts a large number of fumaroles and hot springs on its slopes and its most recently eruption was in February 1998.

The name Rincon de la Vieja, means the old woman’s corner; according to locals, the indigenous people named the volcano after an old witch on top of the mountain who sent columns of smoke into the air when she was angry. Another version says it was a kind old woman on the same spot and the smoke was from her cooking fire as she prepared meals for weary travellers.

The rigorous but spectacular hike starts in the tropical moist forest and as you climb, continues into low wet forest where the trees are covered with epiphytic vegetation. There are 257 species of birds that have been recorded and a great number of insect species; the park protects the largest population of wild purple orchid, Costa Rica’s national flower.

This protected forest sits at the mouth of a volcano and is distinguished by bubbling mud pools, natural hot springs, and geothermal steam ascending from beneath the earth. A dramatic nearby waterfall enveloped in a lush jungle teams with wildlife, providing a natural backdrop to the scenic marvels of the area. There are easy and more challenging trails leading to the volcano.

Departures: 8:30 am

Durations: 8 hours aprox (with transportation).

Price: $95 per person. (Minimum 3 pax, prices are lower for larger group).

Includes: Round trip transportation with a/c from Conchal, Flamingo, Tamarindo, Langosta, Hacienda Pinilla, Brasilito, bottled water, natural juices, national park entrance fees and lunch.

What to Bring: Running shoes, camera, sunscreen and bug spray.