Rich in active gases or metals — a strong mineral character.
Buoyancy
Standard buoyancy
LowHigh
Soft water — natural, classic buoyancy.
SoufreSulfuresSulfates
Balneario Los Patios, in Turrialba, Cartago province, taps sulfurous water at 40°C at the foot of the volcano of the same name. Indoor pools, sauna and massage are available to visitors.
Insider tip — Balneario Los Patios sits in the Turrialba valley of Costa Rica's Caribbean slope, flanked by the active Turrialba Volcano which has erupted repeatedly since 2010, periodically dusting the region with fine ash. The volcanic geology drives sulfurous warm springs to the surface, creating the characteristic rotten-egg aroma that signals genuine geothermal water. The surrounding landscape transitions from montane cloud forest to lower tropical rain forest, and the Reventazon River valley below is renowned for world-class whitewater rafting. Combine a morning of rafting with an afternoon soak for one of Costa Rica's most adventurous thermal experiences.