Things to Do in Curubande, Costa Rica: A Local Travel Guide
Curubande is a small town with plenty of reasons to stay for the day—or longer. Located approximately 25 minutes from downtown Liberia, this Guanacaste community brings together river adventures, waterfall hikes, local food and access to the landscapes surrounding Rincón de la Vieja.
Some of the most memorable things to do in Curubande begin along the Río Blanco and Río Colorado. You can hike through a canyon to La Leona Waterfall, explore rural roads on an ATV, join a river tubing tour or head to a nearby adventure center for ziplining and hot springs.
Between activities, there is the town itself: local restaurants, familiar faces and a quieter side of Guanacaste where people still greet each other as they pass.
At Finca Curubanda, we welcome visitors in the center of the village. This guide shares our local perspective on what to do, where to go and how to organize your time.
Where Is Curubande, Costa Rica?
Curubande—also written Curubandé—is in the canton of Liberia, in Guanacaste, northwestern Costa Rica.
The village is approximately 15 kilometers from downtown Liberia, with a drive of around 25 minutes depending on your starting point and traffic. It is also a convenient base for visiting attractions in the Rincón de la Vieja area.
Keep in mind that the village, national park entrances, waterfalls and adventure lodges are separate destinations. Check the exact meeting point for each activity before leaving.
Do You Need a 4×4 to Reach Curubande?
You do not normally need a 4×4 to reach Curubande town center. Visitors arrive in regular rental cars, motorcycles and other vehicles.
Access beyond the village depends on the property you are visiting. A road suitable for reaching reception may be different from the final approach to a trailhead or river.
For activities booked with Finca Curubanda, we explain where to meet and whether an internal transfer is part of your arrangement.
Can You Get to Curubande by Bus?
Yes. Buses connect Liberia’s municipal bus terminal with Curubande.
Liberia → Curubande: 6:45 a.m., 12:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m.
Curubande → Liberia: 6:00 a.m., 8:00 a.m. and 1:00 p.m.
These times are approximate. Confirm the current schedule locally, especially for weekends and holidays.
Arriving in the village does not necessarily bring you directly to every attraction. If you are traveling without a car, arrange any onward transportation in advance.
For the return trip to Liberia, catch the bus at the stop in front of the Finca Curubanda office, across from the local school in central Curubande.
Things to Do in Curubande at a Glance
Experience | Location | Planning note |
La Leona Waterfall hike | Access arranged through Finca Curubanda | Guided hike with river crossings and swimming |
La Ducha Waterfall | Along selected La Leona routes | Confirm that your chosen route includes this stop |
ATV tour | Departures organized in Curubande | Choose your route and riding arrangement before booking |
River tubing | Río Colorado area | Requirements and conditions differ from the waterfall hike |
Poza Los Coyotes | Curubande area | Confirm current admission and access arrangements |
Poza La Pipa and El Paso | Local river spots | Ask about access and river conditions before visiting |
Ziplining and horseback riding | Nearby adventure properties | Separate locations with their own schedules |
Hot springs | Hacienda Guachipelín and Cañón de la Vieja options | Allow time for transportation and check entry details |
Local lunch | Curubande and nearby restaurants | A useful break between activities |
1. Hike to La Leona Waterfall
La Leona Waterfall is one of the highlights of a visit to Curubande.
At Finca Curubanda, the regular route usually takes approximately 2.5–3 hours and has a moderate difficulty level. Your guide explains the route and helps you through the sections that require assistance.
Expect to get wet and to walk on uneven surfaces. Bring footwear with a secure fit and good grip.
For our waterfall activity, children ages 4 and older may participate subject to suitability and conditions. Tell us the children’s ages and any concerns about walking or swimming before booking.
See La Ducha Along the Way
La Ducha is another waterfall encountered on selected routes to La Leona. Ask which route includes it when reserving.
It should not be treated as a separate roadside stop: the visit forms part of a guided itinerary through the area.
2. Explore Curubande on an ATV Tour
The local off-road experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes, although timing can vary with the group and route conditions.
Single and double ATVs are available, making it possible to drive your own vehicle or share the experience.
Drivers must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license. Before departure, the team explains how to operate the ATV and checks the rider’s ability to handle it.
Combine ATVs with Other Activities
An ATV ride can be combined with other experiences for a longer day in the area.
Options available through Finca Curubanda include:
ATV tour and La Leona Waterfall.
ATV tour, La Leona Waterfall, and river tubing.
ATV tour, Pozo Los Coyotes, and lunch.
Ask about the duration and itinerary of your chosen combination, as a combined tour may use a different schedule from the standalone activities.
3. Go River Tubing on the Río Colorado
River tubing is another adventure you can organize with Finca Curubanda.
The experience takes you down a section of the Río Colorado in an individual tube, with equipment and guidance appropriate to the activity.
It is different from floating in a still swimming pool. Water levels and recent rainfall influence the river experience, so the team assesses conditions before operating.
For families, ask about tubing requirements separately from the waterfall hike. Being eligible for one activity does not automatically mean a child can join the other.
Can You Combine Tubing with La Leona Waterfall?
Yes. La Leona Waterfall and tubing can be combined in one day.
A common sequence is:
Start with the La Leona Waterfall hike.
Continue with tubing on the Colorado River.
Finish with lunch.
Lunch can also be arranged between the activities, depending on the itinerary.
For a visit beginning at 9:00 a.m., a waterfall, tubing, and lunch combination may finish around 1:00–1:30 p.m. The actual finishing time depends on walking pace, river conditions, and time spent eating.
4. Discover Curubande’s River Pools
Waterfalls are only part of the area’s appeal. Curubande also has river pools and places known locally for spending time beside the water.
Natural river pool in Curubande, Guanacaste, Costa Rica. River scenery around a local swimming spot in Curubande. Freshwater pool along the river in Curubande, Costa Rica. Rocks and vegetation beside a river pool in Curubande. Local river swimming area near Curubande village. 1. Natural surroundings of a river pool in Curubande, Guanacaste.
5. Add a Zipline Experience Near Curubande
For visitors interested in an aerial view of the landscape, zipline experiences are available at adventure centers in the wider Rincon de la Vieja area.
A canopy tour can complement a waterfall hike or form part of a separate day of activities.
These experiences take place at different properties, so check the location, travel time, activity schedule, and participation requirements before combining them with your visit to Curubande.
If you are staying nearby, ask for help arranging a schedule that leaves enough time to enjoy each activity.
6. Relax in Hot Springs Around Rincon de la Vieja
After a day of hiking or river activities, a hot springs visit offers a slower-paced way to spend the afternoon.
Options in the surrounding area include experiences at Rio Negro and Cañon de la Vieja. Depending on the property and package, a visit may include thermal pools and a volcanic mud experience.
Hot springs are located at separate attractions, so confirm exactly which location is included when booking a combination.
A waterfall and hot springs itinerary works well for travelers who want to combine an active morning with a more relaxed afternoon.
Hot spring pool near Rincon de la Vieja, Guanacaste. Thermal bathing area near Curubande, Costa Rica. Vegetation surrounding a hot spring pool in the Rincon de la Vieja area. View of the thermal pools at a hot springs property near Curubande. Visitors relaxing in a hot spring pool near Rincon de la Vieja. Hot springs setting in the countryside near Curubande, Guanacaste.
7. Try Traditional Costa Rican Food
A visit to Curubande is also an opportunity to enjoy local food.
After hiking, tubing, or riding an ATV, a traditional lunch is a welcome part of the day. A Costa Rican casado commonly includes rice, beans, salad, and a choice of protein, with accompaniments varying by kitchen.
If you are booking a package, check whether lunch is included. Some activities are sold on their own, while others can be arranged with a meal.
Tell the team about dietary requirements in advance so they can confirm the available options.
Taking time for lunch also gives you a chance to slow down and enjoy the community beyond the activities themselves.
Soda Curubanda - Rancho los Gavilanes
Soda Curubanda restaurant in Curubande, Costa Rica. Dining area at Soda Curubanda in Curubande. Costa Rican lunch served at Soda Curubanda. Rancho Los Gavilanes restaurant near Curubande, Guanacaste. Dining area at Rancho Los Gavilanes restaurant. Traditional Costa Rican lunch at Rancho Los Gavilanes.
8. Get to Know the Town and Its Local Stories
Curubande is more than a starting point for adventure tours.
Spend some time noticing the everyday life of the town: its homes, local businesses, school, and the people who welcome visitors.
Local guides can share their own experiences of the area and how tourism has become part of community life. You may also hear stories and legends associated with the surrounding landscape and Rincon de la Vieja.
These stories are part of local oral tradition, and different people may tell different versions.
Supporting local guides, eating in the area, and purchasing locally made products are ways to make your visit part of the community’s economy.
How to Get to Curubande
Driving from Liberia
Curubande is approximately 20–25 minutes from Liberia, depending on traffic and where you begin your drive.
The main road from Liberia to Curubande town is paved. A 4x4 is generally not necessary to reach the town center and the Finca Curubanda check-in office by this route.
Access roads to other attractions or accommodation properties can be different, so check with your destination before traveling.
For activities with Finca Curubanda, use the check-in location provided with your booking. Searching only for the waterfall name may lead you to a different meeting point.
Suggested Itineraries for Curubande
Half-Day Visit: La Leona Waterfall and Lunch
This option suits travelers who want to focus on the waterfall and enjoy a relaxed meal afterward.
Start with a morning check-in, complete your guided hike, and allow time to change before lunch.
Your total visit will depend on your chosen route and how much time you spend at the meal.
Adventure Day: La Leona Waterfall, Tubing, and Lunch
Combine a hike through the river canyon with a tubing experience on the Colorado River.
A typical plan starts with the waterfall, continues with tubing, and finishes with lunch. This gives you two different ways to experience the rivers around Curubande.
Let the team arrange the sequence and internal transfers so the activities fit together.
Countryside and Waterfall: ATV Tour and La Leona
This combination brings together rural scenery and the waterfall experience.
It suits visitors who want to include driving and hiking in the same day. The itinerary depends on the selected ATV route and waterfall access, so confirm the total duration when booking.
Adventure and Relaxation: Waterfall and Hot Springs
Begin with La Leona Waterfall, then continue to a nearby hot springs property.
Allow time for lunch and the transfer between locations. This is a good choice if you want an active start followed by a slower afternoon.
Staying Longer
If you have more than one day, you can spread the activities out.
Spend one day on La Leona Waterfall and tubing, then use another for an ATV ride, horseback riding, a canopy experience, or hot springs.
A longer stay also leaves more time to enjoy the town and explore without rushing between reservations.
Weather and Planning Your Visit
Conditions in Curubande vary through the year and from day to day.
Drier periods can bring sunny weather and dusty roads, while rain makes the landscape greener and can affect trails and river levels.
Morning departures are often a practical choice for outdoor activities. They also leave more flexibility for lunch or another experience afterward.
Rain does not automatically mean that every tour is canceled. The team assesses the conditions relevant to each activity and may adjust the route, timing, or operation when necessary.
If you are visiting mainly for a river experience, stay in touch with your operator for updates close to your tour date.
What to Bring to Curubande
For waterfall hikes and river activities, bring:
Comfortable clothing that can get wet.
Secure footwear suitable for walking on wet and uneven surfaces.
A change of clothes.
A towel.
Drinking water.
Sun protection.
Any personal items you need before or after the tour.
Water shoes with a suitable sole or secure outdoor sandals can be useful. Choose footwear that stays firmly on your feet.
For ATV activities, wear clothing you do not mind getting dusty or muddy and follow the operator’s footwear instructions. Drivers should bring their valid driver’s license.
Keep unnecessary valuables to a minimum. At Finca Curubanda, lockers are available, and dry bags are provided for the waterfall tour.
Visiting Curubande with Children
Families can enjoy Curubande, but the best itinerary depends on the children’s ages, confidence in the water, and ability to walk on uneven ground.
For La Leona Waterfall, explain your family’s needs before selecting a route. The regular route can be a good family option for those who want to enjoy the journey and river stops, while the shorter route reduces the walking distance.
Every route still requires attention to the terrain and the guide’s instructions.
For tubing, ATV passengers, horseback riding, and canopy tours, confirm the individual operator’s participation requirements. Suitability for one activity does not automatically mean suitability for every other experience.
Planning around your family’s pace helps everyone enjoy the day.
Plan Your Visit with Finca Curubanda
Finca Curubanda is a local starting point for organizing outdoor experiences in Curubande.
Activities include La Leona Waterfall hikes, ATV tours, river tubing, and combinations with lunch or other nearby experiences.
The check-in facilities include parking, lockers, bathrooms, changing areas, and showers. The team can explain the available routes and help you choose an itinerary based on your time, interests, and group.
When contacting us, include:
Your preferred date.
The number of adults and children.
Children’s ages.
The activities you would like to do.
Your preferred starting time.
Whether you need transportation or plan to drive.
These details help us recommend a practical schedule and explain what is included.
Frequently Asked Questions About Curubande
Is Curubande worth visiting?
Curubande offers waterfall hikes, river adventures, countryside tours, and access to nearby attractions around Rincon de la Vieja. It is especially appealing to visitors looking to spend time in nature and experience a small Guanacaste community.
How far is Curubande from Liberia?
Curubande is approximately 15 kilometers from Liberia. The drive usually takes around 20–25 minutes, depending on traffic and the starting point.
What are the main things to do in Curubande?
Activities include visiting La Leona Waterfall, riding ATVs, tubing on the Colorado River, exploring local river scenery, and enjoying Costa Rican food. Nearby attractions also offer canopy tours, horseback riding, and hot springs.
Do I need a 4x4 to reach Curubande?
A 4x4 is generally not required for the main paved route from Liberia to Curubande town and the Finca Curubanda office. Check separately for accommodation or attractions reached by other roads.
Can I visit La Leona Waterfall without a guide?
A guide is required for the La Leona Waterfall tour. The route includes river crossings, uneven terrain, and swimming sections where guidance and equipment are part of the experience.
How long does the La Leona Waterfall tour take?
Most visits take approximately 2–3 hours, depending on the route, group pace, and conditions. Confirm the expected duration of your chosen option when booking.
Can I do La Leona Waterfall and tubing on the same day?
Yes. The two activities can be combined, with lunch added if desired. A morning start gives you time to enjoy both experiences.
Is lunch included in every tour?
No. Lunch depends on the package you select. Confirm the inclusions when booking or ask about adding a meal.
Can I visit Curubande by public bus?
Yes. Local buses connect Liberia and Curubande. Check the timetable before traveling and make sure your activity schedule fits your planned return departure.
Where do I check in for Finca Curubanda tours?
Check in at the Finca Curubanda office in Curubande town center, opposite the school. Use the exact location provided with your reservation.
How much time should I spend in Curubande?
A half day can work for one main activity and a meal. A full day allows you to combine experiences, while a longer stay gives you more time to explore the surrounding area.
Discover Curubande with a Local Team
A visit to Curubande can be a morning at La Leona Waterfall, a full day of river adventures, or a longer stay exploring the countryside around Rincon de la Vieja.
Whatever you choose, leave some time to enjoy the place itself: the rivers, the rural scenery, the local food, and the people who call this community home.
Contact Finca Curubanda to plan your visit, choose your activities, and receive the correct check-in location for your adventure in Curubande, Costa Rica.
Comments