Río Chollín Free Hot Springs
Soak in naturally heated volcanic waters surrounded by lush rainforest. A free, authentic hot spring experience near La Fortuna.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid crowds & parking scams
Río Chollín Free Hot Springs
Best Time
Avoid crowds & parking scams
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Soak in naturally heated volcanic waters surrounded by lush rainforest. A free, authentic hot spring experience near La Fortuna.
"Skip the resort day pass and come here. Being surrounded by nature while soaking in hot springs is unbeatable."
🚗 Avoid Parking Scams
Park further up the road and walk down to avoid unregulated 'parking attendants'.
🚶♀️ Short Hike Required
A quick 5-minute hike leads you to the river. Wear appropriate footwear!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Volcanic River
Main river area
Soak in naturally heated volcanic waters surrounded by lush Costa Rican rainforest. Pure bliss!
Secluded River Spots
Upstream from the main entrance
Walk a bit further to find quieter, deeper pools for ultimate relaxation away from the initial crowds.
Family-Friendly Shallow Areas
Right side of the river
Enjoy the warm waters in shallower sections, perfect for families with younger children.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Scammers
Embrace the Natural Experience
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Avoid Parking Scams
Park further up the road and walk down to avoid unregulated 'parking attendants'. +1
🚶♀️ Short Hike Required
A quick 5-minute hike leads you to the river. Wear appropriate footwear!
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all your trash to keep this beautiful natural spot clean for everyone.
🦥 Sloth Spotting
Keep an eye out for sloths in the trees nearby; some attendants might point them out.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Avoid Parking Scams
Park further up the road and walk down to avoid unregulated 'parking attendants'. +1
🚶♀️ Short Hike Required
A quick 5-minute hike leads you to the river. Wear appropriate footwear!
♻️ Leave No Trace
Pack out all your trash to keep this beautiful natural spot clean for everyone.
🦥 Sloth Spotting
Keep an eye out for sloths in the trees nearby; some attendants might point them out.
💧 Water Temperature
Comfortable in the morning, can feel quite hot during midday.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors love the free, natural hot springs experience at Río Chollín, praising the warm volcanic waters and lush rainforest setting. Many recommend it as a more authentic alternative to paid resorts. However, some are disappointed by unregulated parking attendants and litter left by other visitors, urging authorities to better manage the area.
"El Choyin was our most enjoyed nature activity while visiting La Fortuna. (Heads up that you will likely need a car in order to reach the hot springs. The river is approximately 15 minutes outside of city center.) We were recommended by locals to visit the free springs rather than the paid because they use the same water source. The only difference is that you have showers and lockers at the paid springs, whereas you must partake in a quick ~5 minute hike to enter El Choyin. We didn’t mind the walk and definitely felt like the experience was worth the $3 we paid locals to help us park and watch our car.
We arrived early (at about 9am) on a Sunday morning and had the springs to ourselves. There were about 2 or 3 other small groups of people. If you walk a bit further down the path there are plenty of spots to enter the water, sit, and enjoy the warmth. (FYI: We were told that entering the left side of the river has deeper pools, and the right is a bit more welcoming for families who wish to enjoy shallower water.) The water was a comfortable temperature in the morning hours, and would likely feel a bit hot during the day.
We highly recommend paying El Choyin a visit if you have time!"
Taylor Kickbush
"This is a popular place in town where you can experience a thermal volcanic river for free. You can park next to the road, mostly up the hill. There are people in high-visibility jackets that ask for a fee/tip to watch your car. This is the parking maffia and they are unregulated. There is no fee to park here next to the road. If you want to avoid them it is best to come early in the morning, before 8AM. The entrance is at the lowest point on the southern side of the road, you will see 2 pathways down to the river. You will cross through a fence to get to the river. If you follow the path upstream there are a few good places to sit. The river has a perfect temperature and it is wonderful to relax here. Unfortunately there are a lot of people who leave their trash here. Please clean up after yourself. Later in the day it gets busier at the river and at night even more people enjoy the warm waters in the dark. It was a great experience and you should definitely try it!"
Sam H
"Skip the resort day pass and come here. Being surrounded by nature while soaking in hot springs (at the source) is unbeatable. We came on a Wednesday around 5pm and it wasn't too crowded since it was getting close to sunset. Most of the people seem to have gotten in immedately at the entrance. I would walk up a bit and find a spot, there was way more space. Also, we parked up a little further on the road and walked down to avoid the scammer attendants. One guy didn't even see us park but tried to get us on our way back saying he "watched" our car for us. I literally just told him "No" and kept it moving. Don't even bother going back and forth with them."
Laila Gaisi
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Río Chollín is located about 15 minutes outside of La Fortuna. You'll likely need a car to reach it. Many visitors park along the road near the entrance. Be aware of unofficial parking attendants who may ask for fees.
The entrance is on the southern side of the road, often marked by pathways leading down to the river. Look for the lowest point on the road. Some sources mention crossing a fence to access the river.
Public transport options are limited for reaching this specific natural spot. Renting a car or hiring a taxi from La Fortuna is the most convenient way to access the free hot springs.
To avoid unregulated parking fees, it's best to arrive early (before 8 AM) or park further up the road and walk down. +1 Some attendants may offer to watch your car, but these fees are unofficial.
One TikTok video mentions visiting with a disability, suggesting some level of accessibility, but the natural terrain might present challenges. It's advisable to check current conditions if accessibility is a major concern.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Río Chollín is a free natural hot spring! The only potential costs are for unofficial parking attendants, which are best avoided by arriving early or parking further away.
+1
As a natural hot spring, there are no official operating hours. However, it's recommended to visit during daylight hours for safety and to avoid the 'parking mafia'. Early mornings and late afternoons are popular times.
No, tickets are not required as Río Chollín is a free, natural attraction. Simply show up and enjoy the thermal waters.
One TikTok video mentioned a 25% discount for adults and free entry for children under 11 during a specific promotional period in July 2025. However, this is a free natural spring, so such offers are likely temporary promotions.
You'll likely encounter unofficial attendants asking for parking fees. +1 A short hike down a path leads to the river where you can find spots to relax in the warm water.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
The water temperature is generally comfortable and warm, originating from volcanic activity. It's most pleasant in the morning and can feel quite hot during the midday sun.
No, Río Chollín is a natural hot spring with no developed facilities. You'll need to be prepared to hike to the river and there are no restrooms or showers available.
Walk a bit further upstream from the main entrance to find more secluded and deeper pools. The right side of the river is generally shallower and more family-friendly.
The right side of the river offers shallower areas that are more welcoming for families with children. Always supervise children closely in natural water bodies.
Bring swimwear, a towel, water shoes for the rocky riverbed, and plenty of water. Also, pack out everything you pack in, including trash.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the lush rainforest surrounding the steaming thermal river for stunning nature shots. The early morning light offers a magical ambiance.
While the natural beauty is photogenic, be mindful of your belongings. The area can get crowded, and it's wise to keep valuables secure.
There are no specific regulations mentioned regarding drones, but always be respectful of other visitors and the natural environment. Check local drone laws before flying.
Focus on the contrast between the steamy water and the vibrant green foliage. Shots of people relaxing in the river are also popular.
The pathways leading down to the river offer good vantage points. Exploring upstream can reveal more secluded and picturesque spots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
🌿 Nature Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating the 'Parking Mafia' and Safety
Beyond the parking situation, the natural environment itself requires awareness. The riverbed can be rocky, so water shoes are recommended.
The Natural Appeal of Free Thermal Waters
The river's layout provides options for different preferences. The right side is noted for its shallower pools, making it ideal for families with children.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit