Guachipelin Zipline, River Tubing, Horseback Ride, Hot springs & Lunch Combo

If you’re craving a full-day adventure in Costa Rica’s lush landscapes, the Guachipelin Combo offers a lively mix of thrill and relaxation for around $130. Located near Playa Hermosa, this tour covers ziplining, river tubing, horseback riding, and hot springs, all within Rincon de la Vieja National Park. It’s a flexible experience that lets you design your own day, making it especially appealing to those who want a taste of everything without spending a fortune.

What we love about this tour? First, the variety of activities means you won’t get bored — from soaring through the canopy on ziplines to cooling off in thermal waters, there’s a perfect blend of excitement and serenity. Second, the friendly, knowledgeable guides help you get the most out of each activity, ensuring safety and fun. However, a word of caution: the schedule can feel packed, and some activities, like river tubing, might be intense for younger kids or less physically active travelers.

This tour suits adventurers of moderate fitness who appreciate authentic Costa Rican scenery and want a comprehensive introduction to Rincon de la Vieja’s highlights. Families, couples, or groups looking for a well-rounded day that balances adrenaline with leisure will find plenty to love here.

Key Points

• Versatile Activities: Includes ziplining, river tubing, horseback riding, and hot springs.
• All-Inclusive Lunch: Delicious buffet with vegetarian options.
• Flexibility: Customize your day to suit your interests and pace.
• Authentic Experience: Access to Rincon de la Vieja’s volcanic landscape in a single day.
• Good Value: Multiple activities plus meals for a reasonable price.
• Active but Manageable: Moderate physical activity required, suitable for most travelers with some fitness.

An Honest, In-Depth Look at the Tour

We’re often asked whether a full-day adventure like this is worth it, and in our opinion, it really depends on your style of travel. The Guachipelin Combo tries to strike a balance between adventure and comfort, making it a favorite among first-timers and seasoned travelers alike. Here’s a closer look at what makes this experience compelling — and what to keep in mind.

The Location and Logistics

Based near Playa Hermosa, the tour begins early at 8:30 am, giving you plenty of daylight to explore the diverse landscape of Rincon de la Vieja. The meeting point is at Adventure Tours Hacienda Guachipelin, a well-organized hub with good signage and nearby facilities for changing clothes. The tour is operated by Adventure Tours Hacienda Guachipelin, a reputable provider with hundreds of reviews praising their friendly guides and safety standards.

While the price is $130 per person, it covers all activities, local taxes, and a buffet lunch. The national park fee of $15 is paid directly at the entrance, so budget accordingly. Note that hotel pickup and transportation aren’t included**, so you’ll need to arrange your own transport or be staying nearby.

The Itinerary Breakdown

The day’s highlights are spread across the park’s stunning volcanic terrain, and each activity offers a different perspective of Costa Rica’s natural beauty.

Ziplining and Rappelling

First up, the zipline experience takes you high above the forest canopy. The guides, such as Tiger (mentioned in reviews as exceptionally helpful), are experienced and committed to making sure everyone feels secure. The zipline isn’t just flying through treetops; it involves some rock climbing and swinging, which adds a layer of excitement. Many reviewers raved about the professional equipment and the thrill of flying over lush greenery — “ziplining was definitely better than others we did,” one visitor commented.

River Tubing

Next, you’ll hop into a sturdy inner tube for a river adventure on the Río Negro. The class III rapids make this experience more suitable for those with a little adventure spirit and some physical fitness. Several reviews mention that tubing was their favorite part — “the tubing was one of the most fun things I’ve ever done,” says one traveler. Others note that at times, it can be scary or intense, especially for younger children or less confident paddlers, so consider your comfort with white water before booking.

Horseback Riding

After the adrenaline, a horseback ride through the park offers a more tranquil way to appreciate the scenery. The horses are well-cared for, and guides will help if you’re new to riding. Several reviews highlight the helpful staff and the beautiful views along the trail. It’s a great way to slow down and connect with nature.

Hot Springs and Mud Baths

Then, it’s time to unwind in thermal pools heated by the volcano. The experience is both relaxing and rejuvenating — many travelers say the volcano-heated waters and steam baths are the perfect way to cap off the day. Some mention that the facilities are clean and well-maintained, contributing to a genuine sense of comfort.

The Lunch and Additional Tips

A buffet lunch is included — and it’s more than just a quick bite. Many reviewers describe the food as delicious, with some highlighting the vegetarian options. The setting is typically casual but authentic, giving you a chance to rest and refuel before more activities.

Since the tour is fully flexible, you can choose to skip some parts or add extras like the waterfall canyoning tour ($35), which requires prior planning and a bit more physical effort.

The Experience and Reviews

The overwhelming majority of visitors rave about the professionalism of the guides, the breathtaking scenery, and the value for money. One reviewer noted, “Everything was well organized, and the tubing and ziplining were amazing.” Others appreciated the helpfulness of staff. Some found the schedule a bit tight, especially if you want to fully savor each activity, but overall, the experience is viewed as exciting, authentic, and worth the price.

A few comments pointed out that river tubing can be intense or scary, especially for children, so if you’re traveling with young or apprehensive participants, plan accordingly. Also, since the transportation isn’t included, travelers should consider their own logistics to and from the site.

Who Will Love This Tour?

If you’re an adventure seeker who enjoys a mix of thrill and relaxation, you’ll find this tour ticks all the boxes. Families with older kids (over 8) will appreciate the safe yet exciting activities. Those short on time but seeking a comprehensive taste of Rincon de la Vieja will find it perfect. It’s especially great for travelers who want authentic Costa Rican landscapes, lively guides, and a good value for multiple activities in one day.

The Sum Up

The Guachipelin Zipline, River Tubing, Horseback Ride, Hot Springs & Lunch Combo offers a well-rounded day in the heart of Costa Rica’s volcanic wilderness. It’s an excellent choice if you’re after diversity, value, and authentic experiences. The guides’ friendliness, the stunning scenery, and the delicious food make this a memorable adventure.

While it’s a packed schedule, the variety of activities means you get a lot of bang for your buck. If you’re physically moderate and eager to explore, you’ll leave with a full belly, a big smile, and plenty of stories to tell.

This tour isn’t ideal for those seeking a slow-paced, leisurely day or traveling with very young children, but if you’re craving adrenaline and authentic Costa Rican landscapes, it’s hard to beat.

FAQs

Is transportation to the tour included?
No, transportation to and from the site is not included. You’ll need to arrange your own transport, but the meeting point is easy to find and near public transportation options.

What is the cost of the national park fee?
The national park fee is $15 per person, payable directly at the entrance. Remember to bring cash for this.

Are vegetarian meals available?
Yes, the buffet lunch includes vegetarian options, making it accessible for dietary preferences.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 8 hours, starting at 8:30 am and likely ending in the late afternoon.

Can children participate?
Children over 8 are generally welcomed, but younger kids should be aware that some activities, like river tubing, might be intense or scary.

What should I wear?
Comfortable, quick-drying clothes suitable for active outdoor activities, plus sturdy shoes, are recommended. Bring swimwear for the hot springs, and don’t forget sunscreen.

Is physical fitness required?
Yes, a moderate level of physical fitness is helpful to enjoy all activities comfortably, especially for tubing and horseback riding.

Can I customize the activities?
Absolutely. The tour allows you to choose which activities to participate in, and some extras like waterfall canyoning are available for additional fees.

In sum, this tour offers a dynamic, authentic taste of Costa Rica’s volcanic beauty. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, the Guachipelin Combo provides a robust, value-packed day that you’ll remember long after your trip.