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HotelTaxi

Liberia Airport (LIR) → Rincón de la Vieja (Curubandé) transfer

Rincón de la Vieja, via the village of Curubandé, is 27 km from Liberia Airport, typically a 93 to 117 minute drive, and a private car usually costs around €75–100 (minivan about €100–135). The exact price is shown before booking.

From
Liberia Airport (LIR)
To
Rincón de la Vieja (Curubandé)
Distance
27 km
Typical drive
93–117 min

Your driver meets you in arrivals and takes you to your lodge near the Las Pailas sector of the national park.

Short distance, slow road

The car passes through Liberia and heads north on the Interamericana (Route 1) for a few kilometres, then turns east at the sign for Curubandé and the national park. The paved road climbs gently through cattle ranches towards the volcano.

After the village the last section becomes a rougher rural road with gravel, dust in the dry season and mud after rain. That is why the engine estimate is longer than the 27 km suggest.

There are no shops beyond the village, so anything you need from a pharmacy or supermarket is best picked up in Liberia. A short stop can be agreed when booking.

What there is to do

Rincón de la Vieja is an active volcano, and the Las Pailas sector shows its activity up close: bubbling mud pots, steam vents and a small volcanic lagoon on a loop trail. Waterfall trails, hot springs, river tubing, horse riding and ziplines are offered by the lodges around Curubandé.

Volcanic activity is monitored, and trails can close at short notice. Check the park's status before planning a hike.

Planning tips

Pack for both climates
It is hot in the lowlands but breezier and sometimes wet on the volcano slopes. Bring a light rain layer.
Lodges, not towns
Accommodation is mostly on ranches and in forest lodges, some at the end of their own drives. Give the lodge name.
Combine with the beach
Many travellers spend two nights here, then continue to the Papagayo coast or Tamarindo. Those rides can be booked separately.

Frequently asked questions

Why does a 27 km trip take over 90 minutes?

The final stretch after Curubandé is a rough rural road that has to be driven slowly. The engine estimate is 93 to 117 minutes.

Is a normal car fine for the road?

The local provider chooses a vehicle suited to the current conditions, especially in the green season when the gravel can be muddy.

Can you take us to the park entrance instead of a lodge?

Yes, name the Las Pailas entrance as the destination when booking. Check the park's opening days beforehand.

How much does a minivan cost to Rincón de la Vieja?

Typically about €100–135 for up to about seven passengers. The exact price for your date is shown before booking.

Can we continue to the beach after our stay?

Yes, transfers from the lodges to Playas del Coco, Papagayo or Tamarindo can be booked separately. Most head back through Liberia and take Route 21 west.

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