Things to Do in Liberia, Costa Rica – The Ultimate 2025 Guide for Travelers

Liberia, Costa Rica — known as “The White City” — is the gateway to beaches, waterfalls, volcanoes, wildlife, and some of the best natural adventures in Guanacaste. Whether you’re staying in Liberia city, arriving through the Guanacaste International Airport (LIR), or exploring nearby towns, there are countless unforgettable experiences waiting for you.

This guide presents the best things to do in Liberia, Costa Rica, including prices, essential tips, how to get there, and why these attractions are among the most visited in the region.

1. La Leona Waterfall – The Adventure in Liberia (Official Entrance at Finca Curubanda)

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Most recommended activity near LiberiaDistance from Liberia: 20 minutes

Price: From $30

How to get there: Bus, taxi, or rental car

Official Entrance: Finca Curubanda – Curubandé (click to get the location)

If there is one activity you cannot miss, it is La Leona Waterfall, a breathtaking blue waterfall hidden inside a volcanic canyon. The hike is exciting, safe, and full of natural beauty: turquoise pools, cave passages, canyon walls, and refreshing river sections.

Why choose Finca Curubanda (the official entrance):

• They created the original and official trail.

• It is the shortest and safest route.

• 100% certified local guides.

• Small groups only — a more personal experience.

• No intermediaries or extra fees.

Combo Tour: La Leona Waterfall + Tubing + Lunch (Most Popular)

Price: $70

Duration: 5–6 hours

Transport: Taxi, bus, or your own car

This full-day package combines the original hike to La Leona with the best white-water tubing in the area on the Colorado River and a traditional Costa Rican lunch. Perfect for families, couples, and adventure lovers.

It is one of the top-rated tours in all of Guanacaste, and the experience is safe, local, and unforgettable.

2. Rincón de la Vieja National Park – Las Pailas Sector

Distance from Liberia: 40 minutes

Price: $23 (foreigners)

How to get there: Taxi or rental car only

The Las Pailas sector of Rincón de la Vieja National Park is one of the most accessible and impressive volcanic areas in Costa Rica. Here you can walk through steaming fumaroles, boiling mud pots, volcanic vents, and dry tropical forest full of wildlife like monkeys and coatis.

Why visit Las Pailas:

• One of the only volcanic landscapes in Central America

• Easy trails for all fitness levels

• Great wildlife observation

• Perfect half-day activity from Liberia

Note: No public bus reaches the park entrance, so you must arrive by taxi or private transportation.

3. Pozas Los Coyotes – Crystal Blue Natural Pools

Distance from Liberia: 35 minutes

Price: $5–$8

How to get there: Taxi, own car, or local transportation to Cañas Dulces

Pozas Los Coyotes is a hidden natural oasis with bright blue pools, shallow swimming areas, and beautiful rock formations. It’s ideal for travelers looking for a chill, refreshing experience surrounded by nature.

This is a great stop if you also plan to visit La Leona Waterfall, as both are located near Curubandé.

4. Llanos de Cortés Waterfall – One of Costa Rica’s Most Beautiful Falls

Distance from Liberia: 35 minutes

Price: From $10

How to get there: Taxi or own car

Llanos de Cortés is a wide, majestic waterfall perfect for swimming, relaxing, and enjoying a peaceful natural setting. Families love it because the walk is easy and the pools are calm.

Highlights:

• Perfect for photos

• Family-friendly

• Great for picnics

• Soft sandy beach-like pools

5. Bijagua – Sloths, Blue Rivers & Tenorio Volcano

Distance from Liberia: 1 hour 15 minutesPrice: From $30 for sloth toursHow to get there: Rental car or private transport

Bijagua is one of the best wildlife spots in Costa Rica and a paradise for nature lovers. It is home to the famous sloths, colorful birds, hanging bridges, and the magical blue waters of Río Celeste (Tenorio Volcano National Park).

Popular activities in Bijagua:

• Sloth watching tours

• Hanging bridge walks

• Birdwatching

• Visit to Rio Celeste (light blue river)

• Chocolate & coffee experiences

Despite being outside the city, Bijagua is close enough to Liberia for a full-day trip.

Why Liberia Is the Best Base for Adventure in Guanacaste

Liberia’s privileged location allows travelers to explore beaches, volcanoes, waterfalls, wildlife, and local culture — all within 20 to 90 minutes.

From Liberia, you can easily access:

• La Leona Waterfall (Official Entrance – Finca Curubanda)

• Las Pailas – Rincón de la Vieja National Park

• Rio Celeste & Bijagua

• Llanos de Cortés

• Beaches: Coco, Hermosa, Flamingo, Tamarindo

• Local towns and cultural experiences

Whether you’re visiting for one day or a full week, Liberia offers some of the best things to do in Costa Rica.