Take a Volcanic Mud Bath

      Costa Rica is a literal hotbed of relaxing mud baths, mineral pools, and thermal hot springs boasting over 200 volcanic formations. If you are looking for a unique way to be pampered, Costa Rica offers a diverse selection of hot spring facilities ranging from rustic, natural pools to manicured grounds with well-maintained springs.
      Hot springs are generally defined as springs produced from geothermally heated groundwater. There are several sources for earth-heated waters, but in Costa Rica, there is but one: volcanoes.  Adjacent to underground lava and hot rocks, spring water travels through the ground, often picking up dissolved solids. Homeopathy and local traditional medicine have long held that, because of their high mineral content, Costa Rica’s hot springs have healing and restorative properties. After soaking in the steamy water, you’ll be hard pressed to disagree. Well distributed around the country, the country’s hot springs are usually found within a few miles of an active volcano. Arenal, Rincon de la Vieja and the Miravalles Volcano are the country’s most popular destinations for thermal soaks, boasting highly-rated hot springs, mud baths and spa facilities. Natural hot springs, or warm thermal pools located adjacent to cool-water rivers are an option for adventurous travelers and hikers. Generally located within national parks or private reserves, these pools are rustic and offer few amenities. Most notable are those in Rincon de la Vieja National Park and Tenorio Volcano National Park. Miravalles Volcano offers fantastic mud baths, promising a natural salve for both skin and the soul. Horseback rides and hikes can be arranged to these secluded locations. Resorts throughout Costa Rica have harnessed the restorative powers of volcanic hot springs, rerouting waters into luxurious facilities. Hot spring retreats boast lush grounds, landscaped gardens and pampering day spas. Visitors can enjoy mineral soaks in secluded pools of varying temperatures. For more information visit CostaRica.com
During my visit to Costa Rica, I stayed in Liberia at the all-inclusive Occidental Grand Papagayo.  My friend and I hired private English-speaking tour guide Alvaro Espinoza Canales to bring us on an eco-adventure.  He brought us to two different private resorts where we had a spa experience like no other. 

Borinquen Mountain Resort and Spa

Borinquen Mountain Resort and Spa is located in the Rincon de la Vieja Volcano mountain range in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.  The resort offers horseback riding, ATV's, Hot Spring Pools, Volcanic Mineral Mud, a Natural Steam Room, zip-lining and a beautiful pool with a swim-up bar.  For more information visit http://borinquenresort.com 

Las Hornillas Volcano Hot Springs

Las Hornillas Volcanic Activity Center is located on the slopes of Miravalles Volcano.  There you can tour the Miravalles rainforest with it's majestic waterfalls, go horseback riding, ride on a waterslide, hike through the secondary volcanic crater and witness boiling volcanic mud, have a mud bath, soak in the steam room and relax in the mineral springs.  For more information visit www.hornillas.com.