Rio Negro Hot Springs
Rio Negro Hot Springs
4.5
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Monday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tuesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Wednesday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Thursday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Friday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Saturday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Sunday
8:00 AM - 8:00 PM
Tours & experiences
Explore different ways to experience this place.
Full view
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Top ways to experience Rio Negro Hot Springs
The area
Best nearby
We rank these restaurants and attractions by balancing reviews from our members with how close they are to this location.
Restaurants
2 within 3 miles
Attractions
9 within 6 miles
Contribute
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
We perform checks on reviews.
Tripadvisor’s approach to reviews
Before posting, each Tripadvisor review goes through an automated tracking system, which collects information, answering the following questions: how, what, where and when. If the system detects something that potentially contradicts our community guidelines, the review is not published.
When the system detects a problem, a review may be automatically rejected, sent to the reviewer for validation, or manually reviewed by our team of content specialists, who work 24/7 to maintain the quality of the reviews on our site.
Our team checks each review posted on the site disputed by our community as not meeting our community guidelines.
Learn more about our review moderation.
4.5
251 reviews
Excellent
137
Very good
75
Average
29
Poor
7
Terrible
3
kabukajulie
Herndon, VA28 contributions
Jan 2020 • Friends
I don't think this was worth the $20 entrance fee. There are towels and lockers included, but the pools are simple and basic. No luxury here at all. There are about 7 different rustic pools plus the river. There is very thin, runny mud you can paint on using a brush everyone else uses. Kinda yuck. You don't need a tour to come here. It would be worth stopping if it were $5-$10.
Written 14 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
467patricia
Munich, Germany192 contributions
Feb 2021 • Solo
We stopped by on our way back from National Park Rincon de la Veija.
The entry wasn’t possible.
We had to go back 10km to a close hotel to pay the entry, then 10km back.
The person at the entry wasn’t able to say more than the two words:
“Hotel” and “cash”.
It was 4.30pm in the evening, closing of rio negro at 6pm and we should still pay 20 Dollar. This is not acceptable and feels like rip off tourists.
In parallel the entry fee was doubled within 1 year.
The entry wasn’t possible.
We had to go back 10km to a close hotel to pay the entry, then 10km back.
The person at the entry wasn’t able to say more than the two words:
“Hotel” and “cash”.
It was 4.30pm in the evening, closing of rio negro at 6pm and we should still pay 20 Dollar. This is not acceptable and feels like rip off tourists.
In parallel the entry fee was doubled within 1 year.
Written 25 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Worthy Travels
San Francisco, CA438 contributions
Jan 2022
As a guest at the Hotel Guachipelin, we had free access to this attraction. It’s gorgeous, no doubt, but I found the place a bit overcrowded and slightly clichéd. The short walk to the pools was fascinating since we saw a few capuchin monkeys in the trees. There are 9 pools in total, each with varying temperatures from body temperature to very hot. The pools are man-made but are filled with spring water. I highly recommend slapping on some of the volcanic mud due to its supposed “healing properties”. Overall, it was a great experience but I’m not so sure if I’d return.
Written 20 January 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs. We are glad that you enjoyed the pools surrounded by the tropical forest. Pura vida!
Written 4 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Leah
Healdsburg, Ca72 contributions
Mar 2021
High-end resort in a tranquil remote setting. I thought the less-expensive "east" cottages were nicer than the more expensive "central" cottages, which are painted black inside. Lounge and pool area are lovely, but the real attraction is the Rio Negro, a thermal river that flows through the resort property exclusively.
Written 29 March 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Rio Negro is this special volcanic hot springs in the middle of this lush tropical forest with beautiful waterfalls next to it. Thank you for visiting Rincon de la Vieja Volcano.
Written 16 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
merry955
Easton, MD23 contributions
Jul 2022 • Family
This was a wonderful excursion ! I enjoyed the drive it was not nearly as bad as some of the roads I took to get to the coastal beaches ! I felt safe and secure . The staff were great , the facilities were well kept . The trails were well maintained, maps all around , we pod for the basic hot spring package at 25$ a person and this was worth it ! We also homes to see the waterfalls and could have done more trails if we desired . The toll was waived as we went on a Monday when the national park is closed . We got a towel and hiked across two hanging bridges and enjoyed the mid bath and springs a a little too hot for my liking I hung out in the 98 degree pool . Loads of butterflies ! A magical spot
Written 13 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs. We are glad that you enjoyed the pools surrounded by the tropical forest. Pura vida!
Written 4 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Ryguy
Fernie, Canada16 contributions
Nov 2023 • Family
We went to the hot springs after a hike around Ricón de la Vieja National Park. In my opinion, a visit to the hot springs is essential. The location is incredibly beautiful, the staff are very friendly and helpful, and the walkways, change rooms etc are kept very clean.
There are numerous hot pools, all at slightly different temperatures to suit everyone. I highly recommend covering yourself in the volcanic mud and washing off in the cool creek (showers available if the creek is too cold). Don't forget to tip the staff member who's handing out the mud and cleaning up after everyone.
There are numerous hot pools, all at slightly different temperatures to suit everyone. I highly recommend covering yourself in the volcanic mud and washing off in the cool creek (showers available if the creek is too cold). Don't forget to tip the staff member who's handing out the mud and cleaning up after everyone.
Written 3 November 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs. We are glad that you enjoyed the pools surrounded by the tropical forest. Pura vida!
Written 31 March 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Kisha
Stamford, CT2 contributions
Mar 2024 • Family
I should’ve read these reviews before going. I honestly don’t understand the high ones. This has an exorbitant fee coupled with an entry fee to the area to enter small pools that though warm to hot had the whiff of something hot water was piped into and not natural. I’ll have to visit something better to replace this memory. I would recommend skipping this one.
Written 13 March 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your comments.
Written 25 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
bluefevah
Innisfil, Canada93 contributions
Feb 2024 • Family
Disaqpointed is the best word I can use. Felt like a tourist trap....35 US per person and 29 per kid? I thought that was insane considering I drove myself there. Would have been 130 US just to get into the park park for the 4 of us. Add to that the locals gouging you another set fee just to access the area by closed gate....didn't seem worth it to me for what it was.
My suggestion is to go to rio Celeste and access their hot springs.
My suggestion is to go to rio Celeste and access their hot springs.
Written 1 February 2024
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
We appreciate your visit to Rincón de la Vieja Volcano.
Written 25 July 2024
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jennifer H
New York City, NY120 contributions
Apr 2021
We went to the springs first thing in the morning- we were staying at a nearby bed and breakfast and were told that our first step was to check in at the Activities Center of La Hacienda. When we arrived at Rio Negro we had the whole place to ourselves for 30 minutes. We enjoyed the mud treatment, rinsing off in the river and all of the different natural pools. Be advised that there are lockers but it feels fine to bring you cameras, phones, etc to the pools. The whole experience was low-key and lovely.
Written 4 April 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Specially in the morning Rio Negro is a very, very quiet place. The volcanic mud is extracted for the mud fountains in the Hacienda. The place is surrounded by nature.
Written 16 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David M
Trafford, AL12 contributions
May 2023 • Couples
Selected this outing based on reviews found on the web. Did not disappoint. Had a rental car so drove ourselves. Great roads until close to the site (rough potholes after that) hence the 4 star rating. Need to figure out offline navigation or get cell coverage beforehand. Cost of entry was $32 each for adults. Very nice set up. Hot pools were primitive but great. 11 to rotate among, all with different temps. Included a waterfalls area that had pools we could swim in.
Written 16 May 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Thank you for your visit to Rio Negro Hot Springs.
We are glad that you enjoyed Rio Negro Hot springs surrounded by the tropical forest.
Pura vida!
Written 7 September 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
If you are staying at Hotel Guachipelin, do you have access to the hot springs for free or do you still have to pay the entrance fee?
Written 30 January 2024
Dean p
Toronto, Canada
59 contributions
Are the hot springs open during Covid? Seeing only one walking trail listed for the park.
Written 28 September 2020
Do i need a tour guide to go to the Hot Springs and waterfalls in Rincon de la vieja? Is there a map provided?
Written 15 December 2019
Dean p
Toronto, Canada
59 contributions
No you don’t need a guide if you’re traveling by car. You get a map of the park when you arrive a the park gate. Simply ask them to point it out when paying. You pay a park entry fee (minimal) and then a fee to enter hot springs (if I recall, $15-20). Once you pay at the hot springs booth, it’s a short hike on a well defined trail.
Written 28 September 2020
Can you just drive to the hot springs and pay there to go in our do you have to go as part of a tour? We have a car and just want to go for the hot springs. Thanks!
Written 13 September 2018
Just like others have said you can drive there. If you are staying at Hacienda guachiplean you just have to pay for lockers. It is a cool spot to chill...go before noon because everyone comes here after their tours are finished in the afternoon. We went twice and the first time it was crowded because we went at 4pm. The next day we went early in the morning and were the only ones.
Written 14 September 2018
jamesgang0220
Arkansas
Would this be an easy day trip from Playa Hermosa in our own car?
Written 29 May 2018
Yes, about an hour and change to get there. I would also suggest visiting Rincon de la Vieja national park, which is close to the hot springs.
Written 30 May 2018
jamesgang0220
Arkansas
Would this be an easy day trip from Playa Hermosa in our own car?
Written 29 May 2018
Only if you wake up early. Unlike in the USA, in CR you drive a lot slower and the roads tend to not be great.
Written 16 July 2018
Do you have to buy your ticket in advance or at Hacienda Guachipelin, or can you just drive to the springs and pay admission there?
Written 23 March 2018
You can just purchase admission there. I took the free shuttle from Hacienta Guachipelin to the gate, purchased my ticket and walked in. They also provide a towel and lockers.
Written 24 March 2018
Do we have to have a guide, or can we do the hikes on our own? We are looking to hike for a couple of hours and then relax in the hot springs and river. We are on a tight budget, so we have to explore a lot on our own. We have a car and are located in Playa Potrero. Is this place easy to locate?
Written 23 June 2016
We drove to the hot springs and did short hike and hot springs on our own. There is a fee for this attraction. They provide towel, banos changing rooms. Be advised there are tour buses and the hot springs can be crowded. We lucked out and left as they arrived.
Written 27 June 2016
we will be there on monday as well. what can we do on monday. are there hikes that we can do? Are there things to do outside the park? Also, do we have to pay to get into the park everyday per person or if you pay for one day is it good for a several days like it is in us.
Written 20 September 2015
The Monday we were there we found the following to do around the park - it filled the day. First off, you'll have to pay about $2/person (pay in colones) at the entrance to the hotel grounds to even get to the park entrance/other attractions. It's worth it, and they keep up the grounds nicely :) There's a nice waterfall hike by the entrance to the park. The park entrance will be closed, but just before it there's a little restaurant. You can park there, and there's a trailhead in the parking lot. Veer right when the trail splits and it takes you to a good fall with a decent swimming hole. Slightly back down the road from that restaurant, you can turn off and go to the hot springs. Then we stopped by the hotel lobby and they gave us a map that directed us to another waterfall hike as well, this one has a trail head closer to the entrance to the hotel grounds. You can stop by the lobby first to get the map before you start, as I believe it pointed out both waterfall hikes and the hot springs. If you're looking to spend more money, there was also a zipline course on the grounds, and some horseback activities.
As far as I could tell, park admission was only good for 1 day. Honestly, if you get there right when it opens, do the blue lagoon/waterfall hike first, then the loop trail to the sulfer pits, you can likely do that entire portion of the national park in one day as long as you're relatively fit.
Written 21 September 2015
Showing results 1-10 of 11
Revenue impacts the experiences featured on this page, learn more.
Is this your Tripadvisor listing?
Own or manage this property? Claim your listing for free to respond to reviews, update your profile and much more.
Claim your listing