Adventure Collective Journal

Adventure Collective Journal

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La Leona Escape: Waterfall Hike, Zipline Thrills & Volcanic Hot Springs in Guanacaste

La Leona Escape: Waterfall Hike, Zipline Thrills & Volcanic Hot Springs in Guanacaste

Spend a private day exploring La Leona’s turquoise pools, flying a zipline across the Colorado River canyon, and unwinding in volcanic hot springs. This guided, door-to-door experience combines a moderate hike with adrenaline and thermal relaxation.

Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste
4–5 hours
By Adventure CollectiveOctober 2025

The Experience

Before You Go

Grip-focused footwear

Trails include wet rock and river crossings—wear closed-toe shoes with good traction to avoid slips.

Bring a waterproof phone pouch

Waterfalls and boat-free transfers mean electronics will get splashed; a pouch keeps them safe during the hike.

Hydrate and refuel

Carry a small refillable bottle—the tour provides bottled water, but you’ll appreciate sipping between activities.

Swimwear under clothes

Wear or pack swimwear; changing areas can be basic and you’ll want to maximize time in the hot springs.

Local Knowledge

Hidden Gems

  • A shallow upstream pool off the main trail that's calmer for photos
  • A small roadside fruit stand near the Cañón de la Vieja access road selling fresh coconut juice

Wildlife

  • White-faced capuchin monkeys
  • Touraco and other tropical birds

Conservation Note

Stick to established paths and avoid disturbing thermal vents; managing foot traffic and leaving no trace helps protect delicate riparian plants and hot-spring chemistry.

The canyon and springs sit on terrain formed by Miocene-to-recent volcanic activity; local farmsteads reflect the region’s long history of cattle ranching and Chorotega heritage.

What to Bring

Sturdy hiking shoesEssential

Provides traction on wet rock and uneven canyon trails.

Swimsuit and quick-dry towelEssential

For swimming at the waterfall and using the hot springs and mud baths.

Light rain jacket

Useful during the rainy season when afternoon showers are common.

Waterproof phone pouch

Protects electronics from splashes during the waterfall hike and river crossings.

Common Questions

Is transportation included?

Yes — the private tour includes door-to-door private transportation and eliminates transfers with other guests.

Are children allowed?

Families are welcome but the operator recommends moderate fitness; check age and weight limits for the zipline with the provider when booking.

What about safety on the zipline?

All zipline equipment and briefings are provided; guides handle harnessing and safety protocols so participants only need to follow instructions.

What happens in heavy rain?

Tours generally run in light rain, but extremely high river levels or unsafe conditions may require rescheduling; check cancellation policy for 24-hour refund windows.

Book This Experience

Check Availability

Duration

4–5 hours

Location

Playa Flamingo, Guanacaste

Difficulty

moderate

Fitness Level

Suitable for travelers with a moderate level of fitness able to handle uneven, sometimes slippery terrain and short uphill sections.

Free cancellation available

Ready to Explore Playa Flamingo?

Book your guided walking tour and discover the hidden stories of this historic mountain city.

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