The Ultimate Guide to Hiking Rio Celeste

Rio Celeste is one of the most picturesque sights in Costa Rica and is set in the stunning landscapes of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. Rio Celeste is a must-see for any nature lover. With this Rio Celeste hike guide, you’ll be able to explore all the best this stunning natural paradise offers. From beautiful rainforest trails to lagoons and geothermal pools, the Rio Celeste hike has something for everyone. And of course, the highlight of the hike is the spectacular Rio Celeste waterfall, with its sky-blue waters that are simply mesmerizing.

Where is Rio Celeste located and how to get there?

If there‘s an extra and honorable mention outside of these two beautiful areas, it is definitely Rio Celeste.

The Celeste River is the location within the Tenorio Volcano National Park. The distance from the capital San Jose depends on the selected route but will be around 200 kilometers and approximately 4 hours of driving. It is also possible to enter from the Arenal park side as it borders the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Tenorio Volcano National Park

Tenorio Volcano National Park is a must-visit for any nature or adventure enthusiast! The park is home to an active volcano, Tenorio volcano, which stands at 6,286 feet tall~ 1.9 kilometers. The park also boasts a hiking trail with spectacular views of the Rio Celeste Waterfalls. In addition to its volcano and hiking trail, Tenorio Volcano National Park offers horseback riding and birdwatching opportunities.
Situated in the beautiful Guanacaste mountain range, the park is home to a stunning volcano, hiking trails, and the famous Rio Celeste Waterfalls. Although the volcano is now dormant, there is still plenty of geothermal activity in the river.

Rio Celeste, the Blue River

Rio Celeste Waterfalls are the main attraction in the Tenorio Volcano National Park. The water is fiercely blue – almost bluer than the sky! People come from all over to take pictures in front of the waterfalls, and it’s easy to see why. The magnitude of the falls is impressive, and the evidence of volcanic activity is fascinating. It’s definitely worth a visit if you’re ever in the area!

Hiking Rio Celeste

The Rio Celeste Hike is a great way to see the falls and discover the breathtaking sky-blue waters of Rio Celeste. The hiking trails are well-marked and easy to follow, and there are plenty of lagoons, geothermal pools, and rainforest wildlife to see along the way.

The Hiking Trail to Rio Celeste Waterfalls

The Hiking Trail to Rio Celeste Waterfalls is a challenging yet rewarding journey. The trail is around 3.5 miles (5.6 kilometers) each way and takes approximately 1 hour to complete. I recommend adding more time when it rains, and the trail is muddy. The trail is relatively easy to follow and well-marked. There are some steep and slippery sections when it’s wet. The reward for completing the hike is the stunning Rio Celeste Waterfalls. The waterfalls are located in a secluded cove surrounded by lush vegetation. The best time to visit the waterfalls is early morning when the sun is shining on the water.

The ranger station is a great place to start your hike. You can pick up a map and ensure you have all the supplies you need for your little hike. The first part of the trail is flat and paved and is super easy for hikers of all skill levels. However, the trail becomes more challenging when you turn off to the waterfall. The waterfall is a fantastic sight. It’s mighty and blue. You can feel the spray of the water as it plunges to the side of you. Hiking to the waterfall is a great way to experience the beauty of nature.

Rio Celeste Waterfalls

Rio Celeste Waterfalls are fed by Rio Celeste, which is a magical river that runs through the jungle. The river gets its color from the minerals in the volcanic rocks it flows over. When Rio Celeste meets with Rio Bueno, the river turns a deep blue color. These magnificent waterfalls are one of the most popular tourist destinations in Costa Rica.

Other things to do in Tenorio Volcano National Park

Rio Celeste is a stunning example of what happens when two rivers collide – literally. The beautiful blue color results from a mingling of minerals, and it’s definitely something you want to see in person. But the fun doesn’t stop there! Continuing on from the falls, you’ll find several other interesting spots. Laguna Azul is a pool of milky blue water surrounded by greenery. At the same time, Los Borbollones lets you see geothermal activity up close (just be careful not to touch the water!). And last but not least, El Tenidero is where the two rivers meet – and it’s an absolutely incredible sight. So if you’re looking for a place full of natural beauty and wonders, Rio Celeste is definitely the place for you.

How long and how difficult is the Rio Celeste hike?

The duration and difficulty on the hike depend on the personal abilities and weather, but a general rule of thumb is around 3 hours for a round-trip with no mud and good conditions.

What is Rio Celeste famous for?

Rio Celeste is famous for its eye-catching water coloration. The river hosts a large water waterfall as well as several hot springs. Lush jungle and stunning landscapes will follow along the path in this beautiful hiking affair.

Can you swim in Rio Celeste?

The vibrant blue and green hues are created by a natural chemical reaction between the sun and minerals in the water, and this fragile ecosystem is easily disturbed. As a result, swimming is not allowed anywhere in the park to protect the water’s unique color. While it may be tempting to take a dip, remember that you’re here to admire the beauty of nature, not make a splash.

Tenorio Volcano National Park entrance ticket

The entrance fee is $12 for adults and $5 for children. 

The guided tours can cost as high as $100 per person, depending on the tour operator.

If there‘s an extra and honorable mention outside of these two beautiful areas, it is definitely