Aguas Zarcas - Costa Rica

The name Aguas Zarcas come from the hot, mineral springs and is translated "Light Blue Waters". This village, that is ideal for a wellness vacation, is located on the slopes of the Cordellera Central, the central mountain chain. There are several hot springs and spas that offer massages, mud baths, aroma therapies, physiotherapies and places to soak in hot springs. Some of the hot springs are located in the Jungle, so one is surrounded by a wild tropical arbor. At night the noise of the tropical forest turns the hot springs into a very special and exotic experience.

The jungle foliage is well lit so it is possible to enjoy the nighttime biodiversity totally relaxed, from a worm's-eye view.

For tourists who are looking for more action you can explore the surrounding area of Aguas Zarcas on horseback. Like most locations in Costa Rica there are different tour operators that offer canopy tours.

Bathing in thermal waters in the tropical forest...

Aguas Zarcas is still an undeveloped tourist town, most of the inhabitants earn their living from agriculture. It is an ideal stop from or on the way to the volcano Arenal or one can stay and explore the Juan Castro Blanco National Park, which is located a bit south of town. Or you take a hot spring tour in Costa Rica from south to the northwest with stops in Aguas Zarcas, La Fortuna and Rincon de la Vieja National Park.

Aguas Zarcas on the map

Aguas Zarcas on the map

Facts about Aguas Zarcas, Costa Rica

  • Aguas Zarcas is part of the canton San Carlos, which belongs to the province of Alajuela.
  • Aguas Zarcas means "Light Blue Waters".

Driving times and distances

  • Distance from San Jose to Aguas Zarcas: 85.7 kilometers respectively 53.2 miles.
  • Travel time from San Jose to Aguas Zarcas: 2.34 hours.
  • Distance from Liberia to Aguas Zarcas: 186.3 kilometers respectively 115.6 miles.
  • Travel time from Liberia to Aguas Zarcas: 4.01 hours.