Petrina Darrah
Posted: March 23, 2023
Nestled in the heart of Central America, Costa Rica is a nature lover’s paradise. Its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and stunning volcanoes attract millions of visitors every year. But did you know that Costa Rica is also home to some of the most incredible hot springs in the world? From luxurious resorts to off-the-beaten-path gems, there is something for everyone. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best hot springs in Costa Rica and why they’re worth visiting.
Hot springs are a natural wonder that occur when groundwater is heated by volcanic activity and rises to the surface. Costa Rica’s abundant geothermal activity means that there are hot springs throughout the country. Soaking in hot springs is not only a relaxing and enjoyable experience, but it also has many health benefits. The mineral-rich water is known to improve circulation, reduce stress, and alleviate muscle and joint pain.
Located at the base of the Arenal Volcano, Tabacón Hot Springs is one of the most popular hot spring resorts in Costa Rica. The resort’s natural hot springs flow through beautifully landscaped gardens and cascading waterfalls. Visitors can soak in the warm water while enjoying the stunning view of the active Arenal Volcano. The resort offers a variety of activities, including hot spring pools, cold water pools, and a swim-up bar. There are also several restaurants on-site, offering a range of international and local cuisine.
Baldi Hot Springs is another popular hot spring resort located near the Arenal Volcano. The resort features 25 hot spring pools, ranging in temperature from 93 to 152 degrees Fahrenheit. Visitors can choose from pools with waterfalls, underwater massage beds, and swim-up bars. The resort also offers several water slides and a kid’s pool. For those seeking a more luxurious experience, Baldi offers private hot spring pools with a stunning view of the volcano.
Located in the town of La Fortuna, Eco Termales Hot Springs is a family-owned hot spring resort that offers a more intimate and peaceful experience. The resort features four natural hot spring pools, surrounded by lush rainforest and volcanic rock formations. The pools vary in temperature, allowing visitors to find the perfect balance of warmth and relaxation. The resort limits the number of visitors each day, ensuring a serene and uncrowded experience. There is also a restaurant on-site, offering traditional Costa Rican cuisine.
While the above hot spring resorts are well-known and popular among tourists, Costa Rica also has several hidden gems worth exploring.
Located in the Guanacaste Province, Titokú Hot Springs is a hidden gem that offers a more authentic and local experience. The hot springs flow naturally from a nearby river and are surrounded by lush vegetation. There are several pools to choose from, each with a unique temperature and setting.
Located in the Orosi Valley, Orosi Hot Springs is a lesser-known hot spring that offers a serene and peaceful experience. The hot springs flow from a nearby volcano and are surrounded by beautiful gardens and rainforest. Visitors can soak in the hot water while enjoying the stunning view of the valley.
In conclusion, Costa Rica’s hot springs offer a unique and rejuvenating experience for travellers seeking to unwind and immerse themselves in nature. From the renowned Tabacón and Baldi resorts to hidden gems like Titokú and Orosi, there is no shortage of hot springs to explore. However, volunteering with GVI can take your adventure to the next level. GVI offers a range of volunteer opportunities that allow you to give back to the local community while discovering more of Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Whether you choose to work on conservation projects in the rainforest or community development initiatives in rural communities, volunteering with GVI is a great way to gain a deeper understanding of Costa Rica’s culture and ecosystem. So why not make your next trip to Costa Rica a meaningful one by joining GVI and discovering all that this incredible country has to offer?
By Petrina Darrah
Discover the rich and diverse flavours of Nepal's traditional cuisine, from momos to dal bhat, and learn how to experience it while volunteering in Pokhara with GVI.
Petrina Darrah
Posted: May 21, 2023
