After a few days of early starts, park trails and adventure tours, a soak in naturally warm water is exactly what many travellers want. The Hot Springs in the Jungle excursion from Manuel Antonio is built around that idea: a day trip to a series of thermal pools set among the trees, where you can move between pools of different temperatures, rest in the shade and let the muscles recover. With a rating of 4.8 from more than eighty reviews, it has earned a loyal following among visitors who want a calmer, more restorative kind of day. Costa Rica sits on the Pacific Ring of Fire, and volcanic heat is the reason the country has so many hot springs, though most of the best-known ones are around the northern volcanoes. Trips like this one bring that experience within reach of the central Pacific coast, with transport from the Manuel Antonio and Quepos area so you do not need to drive on unfamiliar rural roads. The details of the pools, the surroundings and the amenities vary from one outing to the next, so check the operator's description for what your option includes, whether that is entry, a meal, towels or lockers, and how long you will have at the springs.
What a day like this usually involves: you travel to the site by shared or private transport, change into swimwear and spend the main part of the day moving between pools. The temperatures typically range from pleasantly warm to properly hot, and the sensible approach is to start in the cooler pools, alternate with cold water or a shower if one is available, and keep sessions short at first.
The water is generally described as mineral-rich, which many visitors find soothing for tired legs after hiking, rafting or zip-lining. A relaxed lunch and time simply to sit and look at the forest are part of the appeal.
Health and comfort notes
Very hot water is not suitable for everyone. If you are pregnant, have a heart condition, low blood pressure or any other medical concern, speak to a doctor before soaking, and keep young children out of the hottest pools. Drink plenty of water, because hot soaking in a tropical climate can dehydrate you, and avoid alcohol while you are in the pools.
Bring a swimsuit, a towel, flip-flops, a change of clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent and a waterproof bag for valuables. Leave jewellery at the hotel, since minerals can tarnish it, and be careful with sunglasses and phones near the water.
When to schedule it
The springs are a good rest-day activity, ideally the day after a physical outing such as rafting, the canopy or the ATV ride, or the day before a long journey. In the green season, from May to November, an afternoon shower is part of the experience, and soaking in warm water under a rain-fresh forest canopy is one of the pleasures of the trip, though a morning start still helps with scheduling.
In the dry season, from December to April, the days are sunnier and the pools more crowded at midday. Confirm what is included, the pickup time and the length of stay when you reserve, and plan to have nothing demanding on the same evening, because most people leave pleasantly drowsy.
What to expect
The experience
A day trip with transport from Manuel Antonio or Quepos to a set of thermal pools in a forest setting, with time to soak and relax.
Best time
Any day that suits a rest, ideally after an energetic outing. Mornings are quieter at most hot springs.
How long
A full day or a long half day, depending on the option. Confirm the length of stay at the springs.
Tips
Bring a swimsuit, towel, flip-flops and a change of clothes, drink plenty of water and keep sessions in the hottest pools short.
Quick picks
- Best for
- A restorative rest day after a few days of adventure activities.
- Families
- Suitable for many families, but keep young children out of the hottest pools and watch them closely around the water.
- Couples
- A slow, easy day of warm soaks and quiet time, with nothing to organise on the spot.
- Pair with
- A morning in the national park on a different day and a sunset catamaran for the evening.
- Time needed
- A full day, or most of one.
Good questions
Are the hot springs natural?+
The tour is sold as a hot springs experience in a jungle setting, with naturally warm thermal water. Check the operator's description for details of the pools at your option.
What should I bring?+
A swimsuit, towel, flip-flops, a change of clothes, sunscreen, insect repellent and a waterproof bag. Leave jewellery at your hotel.
Is it suitable for children?+
Often yes, but keep young children out of the hottest pools and supervise them closely. Check the operator's age notes.
Is it safe if I am pregnant or have a medical condition?+
Very hot water is not suitable for everyone. Speak to a doctor before soaking if you are pregnant or have a heart or blood pressure condition.
When is the best day for the hot springs?+
The day after a physical outing, or any day you want a break from early starts. Mornings tend to be quieter.
