Rincon de la Vieja, the largest volcano in the country's northwest, comprises a remote volcanic complex in the Guanacaste Range. At least nine eruptive vents are located within a 15-kilometer-wide cauldron. The twin cone of 1,916 meter Santa Maria volcano, the highest peak of the Rincon complex, features an inactive crater 500 meters across. Natural hot springs, virgin forests, jungle waterfalls and volcanic mud pots are just some of the many attractions tourists can enjoy during a visit to this place. The attractions are protected in the 14,083- hectare Rincón de la Vieja Volcano National Park, which extends from 650 to 1,965 meters in elevation on both the Caribbean and Pacific flanks of the cordillera. The two sides differ markedly in rainfall and vegetation. The Pacific side has a distinct dry season. The Caribbean side is lush and wet year-round, with as much as 500 cm of rainfall falling annually on higher slopes. The park is known for its profusion of orchid species. The diverse conditions foster a panoply of wildlife species. More than 300 species of birds include quetzals, toucan, the elegant trogon, eagles, three-wattled bellbirds, and the curassow. Mammals include cougars, howler, spider, and whitefaced monkeys, sloths, tapirs, tayras, and even jaguars.

Length of tour: Full Day.

What to bring: Cool comfortable clothes and shoes, swimsuit, sun block, towel, camera and hat.

Inclusions: Air-conditioned transportation, bilingual guide, soft drinks, entrance fee and lunch.