The Best Hiking Spots In Guanacaste, Costa Rica

Guanacaste is one of the most popular provinces in Costa Rica, attracting a steady stream of tourists and expatriates to its many sights. The province has many options for natural beauty such as: huge beautiful mountains, volcanoes, tropical beaches, national parks, waterfalls and more.

The natural opportunities here are a dream come true for all adventure and nature lovers. For those interested in seeing the beauty of Guanacaste and the surrounding area, there are many modes of exploration possible. One of them is going on hiking trails and making the most of your trip by witnessing gorgeous views.

Many locals spend their summertime here surfing, hiking, exploring wildlife and just relaxing and enjoying life. We will focus on the hiking experience of Guanacaste and here are our top picks of hiking trails you can go on.

Top three trails for hiking near Guanacaste, Costa Rica

1. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike, Tenorio Volcano National Park

Found right on the border of the Guanacaste and Alajuela provinces, Rio Celeste is known as the “Heavenly River” of Costa Rica. The blue water is so pristine that anyone visiting it the first time is taken aback by its beauty. You need to see it to believe it.

If you have never hiked before then this trail might be a little difficult for you to start with. The trail is almost four miles long and it will take you over 3 hours to complete.

Along the trail you will pass a beautiful cascading waterfall and the ‘Laguna Azul’ hot springs. After the hot springs you will then cross the river through a bridge and continue your hike.

If you want a slightly challenging hike that is worth it for the incredible views then this is the perfect trail for you.

2. Santa Rosa National Park Hike

Santa Rosa is known to be one of the oldest national parks in the area. It is popular for the wildlife that is native to the area and has a protected beach for sea turtles.

The park is surrounded by forests and calm countryside. There are many trails available there for you to hike as it is not a good idea to take a vehicle because of the ruggedness of the area. The hiking trails available there are as follows:

• Sendero Los Patos
• Sendero Aceituno
• Sendero Carbonal
• Sendero Palo Seco
• Mirador Valle Naranjo Trail

Some of these can be done in half a day and some of them will take more time. Choose the one you want to hike and have the best experience!

3. Rincon de la Vieja National Park

Also found right on the border of Guanacaste and Alajuela, this park has the largest volcano in Guanacaste. The park and the hike offer a geothermal landscape that you will love seeing. You can choose from three hikes that you might want to go on:

• La Cangreja Waterfall Trail – 6 miles
• Escondia Waterfall Trail – 5 miles
• Las Pailas Loop Trail – 2 miles

Through the hike, you will get to see amazing waterfalls, mud pots, lava rocks, and hot springs. Truly this national park has some of the most amazing views you will see anywhere in Costa Rica.

Bottom line

If you are in Guanacaste and haven’t gone on a hiking trail then you haven’t experienced the full beauty of it. Choose one of the trails that suits you best and have fun hiking!

Falling in love with Guanacaste and wondering if you could make a life in Guanacaste happen? Contact us for a free tour of the real estate in Guanacaste, Costa Rica!