La Leona Waterfall, lazy river tubing, cliff jump & hot springs

A Full-Day Adventure in Costa Rica: La Leona Waterfall, River Tubing, Cliff Jumping & Hot Springs

If you’re after a well-rounded day of outdoor fun that combines adventure, natural beauty, and cultural insights, then the La Leona Waterfall tour near Playa Flamingo is a fantastic choice. For $240 per person, this roughly 7-hour experience promises breathtaking scenery, thrilling activities, and authentic Costa Rican flavors, all overseen by bilingual guides who know their stuff.

What we love most about this trip is how it balances adventure and relaxation — from drifting down crystal-clear rivers to soaking in volcanic hot springs. Plus, the tour’s all-inclusive approach, with snacks, water, and a hearty local lunch, makes it a convenient way to explore without worrying about logistics. The fact that it’s a private tour enhances the sense of intimacy and flexibility, ideal for families or small groups.

However, a consideration for travelers is that this experience involves physical activity—hiking, swimming, and jumping—so it’s best suited for those in moderate health who enjoy outdoor pursuits. Also, weather can influence the day’s activities; if rain hits, some parts of the tour might be canceled or rescheduled, though the guide will offer alternatives.

This tour is perfect for nature enthusiasts, adventure lovers, and anyone eager to dive into authentic Costa Rican landscapes with expert guidance. It offers real value through its diverse activities and local flavor, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Guanacaste.

Key Points

• Diverse Activities: Includes river tubing, cliff jumping, waterfall swimming, and hot springs.
• Local Guides: Bilingual, certified guides bring rich knowledge and safety.
• All-Inclusive: Snacks, bottled water, equipment, and a traditional Costa Rican lunch are included.
• Authentic Experiences: Connect with Costa Rican nature and culture in a genuine way.
• Private Tour: Only your group participates, ensuring personalized attention.
• Physical Activity: Some activities require moderate fitness and comfort with outdoor adventure.

Exploring the La Leona Waterfall & Adventure Tour

Imagine starting your day with a relaxing float through a pristine river, surrounded by lush landscapes. The first stop, Poza Los Coyotes, offers a tranquil lazy river tubing experience that’s perfect for unwinding while taking in the beautiful scenery. What sets this part apart is the short scenic walk to a hidden canyon — a photograph-worthy spot that feels exclusive and untouched. If you’re a thrill-seeker, the chance to cliff jump into the river adds an adrenaline rush that many reviewers, including Michael C., say makes the trip “a great family outing,” even if the lazy river itself isn’t the main highlight.

Next, the tour takes you to the La Leona Waterfall, which is arguably the star of the day. You’ll hike along the Blanco River, passing through stunning terrain—rock formations, small canyons, and the sounds of rushing water. The hike is not just scenic but also interactive; you’ll swim and navigate natural obstacles, making it a fun and active way to connect with nature. Once you reach the waterfall, you’re rewarded with crystal-clear waters and a peaceful setting to swim or just soak in the view. As Dan K. notes, guides like Hernan are excellent at sharing local knowledge, making the experience both educational and enjoyable.

A key part of this experience is the lunch stop in Soda Curubanda, a charming town where you can indulge in a traditional Costa Rican “casado”—a hearty meal featuring local ingredients. It’s a simple, satisfying way to fuel up before more adventures. The combination of fresh flavors and a relaxed setting offers travelers an authentic taste of local life.

In the afternoon, you’ll visit the Cañon de la Vieja Lodge, located at the foot of the Rincón de la Vieja volcano. Here, the focus shifts to relaxation—soaking in natural hot springs and applying volcanic mud, which many find both soothing and fun. The hot springs pools are a perfect way to unwind after a morning of physical activity, leaving you refreshed and ready to head back.

What Makes This Tour a Great Value

At $240 per person, the tour offers a comprehensive experience with significant inclusions: transportation in a modern vehicle, all necessary safety equipment, snacks and bottled water, and a local lunch. The guides’ expertise adds real value—sharing insights about Costa Rican biodiversity, geography, and culture—which elevates the trip beyond just activities.

The all-day duration (around 7 hours) ensures a full immersion into natural sights that are otherwise hard to access independently, especially with the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off. For those looking to explore Guanacaste’s outdoor treasures without the hassle of planning each detail, this tour hits the sweet spot.

Thorough Breakdown of the Itinerary

Poza Los Coyotes: A Peaceful Start with a Splash of Adventure

The day kicks off with the river tubing in Poza Los Coyotes. This part is accessible to most, but it’s worth noting that the tubing isn’t very long or strenuous—more of a relaxing float, perfect for families or those who prefer a gentle start. The highlight is the cliff jump, which gives brave souls an exhilarating way to connect with nature. Reviewers like Michael C. appreciated the “awesome guides” who made this part memorable.

Following the float, a short walk takes you to a beautiful canyon—a quiet spot ideal for photos and reflection. This adds a layer of hidden gem discovery, which is often a favorite aspect for travelers craving authentic, less touristy spots.

La Leona Waterfall Hike and Swim

The trek along the Blanco River is not just a walk—it’s an adventure. Passing through diverse rock formations and canyons, you’ll navigate natural obstacles, swim, and explore, which keeps everyone engaged. The waterfall itself is stunning—a perfect backdrop for photos and a refreshing swim.

Reviews praise the guides’ knowledge and their approachability. Hernan, for example, teaches about the area’s nature and traditions, making the experience both fun and informative. The serenity of the waterfall after the hike is a reward for all that effort, and many say it’s a “unique experience to connect with Guanacaste.”

Local Flavor at Soda Curubanda

The lunch stop is a chance to enjoy authentic Costa Rican cuisine. The “casado” is a crowd-pleaser, offering local flavors in a relaxed setting. This meal not only refuels you for the rest of the day but provides a taste of regional ingredients and culinary traditions.

Relaxation at Cañon de la Vieja

The afternoon shift involves unwinding in natural hot springs pools and covering yourself with volcanic mud—an experience many travelers find both soothing and fun. The volcanic mud is reputed to have skin benefits, and the hot springs provide a perfect setting for relaxation, especially after all the hiking and swimming.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is best suited for adventure seekers, nature lovers, and those interested in an authentic Costa Rican landscape. It’s ideal if you’re comfortable with outdoor activities like hiking, swimming, and jumping into water. Family groups or small parties will appreciate the personalized attention and the safe, guided environment.

Because the tour includes physical activities and outdoor elements, it might not be suitable for travelers with mobility limitations or those expecting a more relaxed, sedentary day. Weather considerations are also worth noting; if rain is heavy, some activities could be affected, but guides will do their best to adapt.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, relaxation, and cultural insight—a recipe for a memorable day in Costa Rica. The knowledgeable guides turn what could be just another outdoor outing into an enriching experience. The stunning scenery, from waterfalls to volcanic hot springs, makes the price worthwhile for those eager to explore beyond the usual tourist spots.

It’s especially well-suited for travelers who want more than just sightseeing, seeking active outdoor fun in a safe and well-organized setting. If you’re craving authentic Costa Rican landscapes and a chance to connect with nature on multiple levels, this tour hits all the right notes.

In short, if you enjoy adventure, beautiful scenery, and local flavor, this tour is a fantastic choice. Just come prepared for some physical activity and a day full of unforgettable discoveries.

FAQ

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off at your hotel or vacation home, in a comfortable air-conditioned vehicle.

What should I bring?
Expect to get wet, so wear suitable clothing and bring a towel. The tour provides helmets and life jackets if needed, plus bottled water and snacks.

How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 7 hours, with around 90 minutes of travel time from your hotel.

Can children participate?
Yes, most travelers can participate, and reviews mention families with kids enjoying the experience. Just check that your children are comfortable with outdoor activities.

Are the activities suitable for beginners?
The activities are generally accessible, but cliff jumping and swimming do require a basic level of comfort with water. Guides ensure safety and provide all necessary equipment.

Is the tour weather-dependent?
Yes, poor weather can affect certain activities, particularly the waterfall hike and river trips. However, guides will offer alternatives or reschedule if necessary.

What is included in the price?
All transportation, safety gear, snacks, water, lunch, and entrance fees to La Leona Waterfall and hot springs are included.

Is there an age limit?
Most travelers can participate, but younger children or those with mobility issues should assess their comfort with the physical activities involved.

This La Leona Waterfall tour offers a rewarding blend of natural beauty, active fun, and cultural flavor — perfect for those ready to see Guanacaste’s wild side with expert guides leading the way.