Tenorio Volcano National Park Río Celeste
Discover the magical turquoise waters of Rio Celeste, nestled within Costa Rica's lush Tenorio Volcano National Park. Hike through rainforest to a stu...
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Clearer turquoise water
Tenorio Volcano National Park Río Celeste
Best Time
Clearer turquoise water
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover the magical turquoise waters of Rio Celeste, nestled within Costa Rica's lush Tenorio Volcano National Park. Hike through rainforest to a stunning waterfall.
"An otherworldly blue that defies explanation but demands exploration. 
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails are steep, rocky, and can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails. Food is generally not allowed on the hiking paths.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Rio Celeste Waterfall
Tenorio Volcano National Park
Witness the breathtaking cascade of vibrant turquoise water plunging into a lush jungle oasis.
+1The Turquoise River
Tenorio Volcano National Park
Marvel at the surreal, otherworldly blue hue of the river, a result of volcanic minerals.
+1
Borbollones (Bubbling Springs)
Along the trail
Observe fascinating sulfur springs bubbling up in the river, adding a unique geological element to your hike.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets Online in Advance
Prepare for a Rugged Hike
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails are steep, rocky, and can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails. Food is generally not allowed on the hiking paths.
🎫 Book Tickets Online
Crucial for entry! Service is unreliable, and no tickets are sold at the window.
🐒 Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for monkeys, toucans, and other fascinating rainforest creatures.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Sturdy Hiking Shoes
Trails are steep, rocky, and can be slippery. Good grip is essential for a safe and enjoyable hike.
💧 Bring Plenty of Water
Stay hydrated on the trails. Food is generally not allowed on the hiking paths.
🎫 Book Tickets Online
Crucial for entry! Service is unreliable, and no tickets are sold at the window.
🐒 Look for Wildlife
Keep an eye out for monkeys, toucans, and other fascinating rainforest creatures.
🌦️ Be Prepared for Rain
It's a rainforest, so expect occasional showers, even in the dry season.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about the stunning, otherworldly blue color of Rio Celeste and its magnificent waterfall, calling it a must-see natural wonder. The hike, though challenging with steep and rocky terrain, is considered worth the effort for the breathtaking scenery and wildlife spotting opportunities. However, some find the inability to access the bottom of the waterfall disappointing, and the need to book tickets online in advance is a crucial point for planning.
"Loved the blue water and the waterfall. It was interesting to see the sulfur spring bubbling up in the water further down the trail. The trail has intense parts, steep and rugged, steep stairs and further down the trail steep and uneven stairs. But it is worth the effort if you are in moderately good physical shape. Bring plenty of drinking water and eat a hearty meal before you leave. It is my understanding that they don’t allow food on the trail. We spent about 4 hours on this trail observing birds and enjoying the beautiful blue water."
Stephanie East
"This is a wonderful place if you enjoy outdoor hiking. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes because you will walk a lot ! I saw two snakes on the way but they seemed cool."
Sui Chen
"First and foremost if your coming buy your tickets in advance. Make an account and buy the tickets, they will not see you at the window without tickets and service sucks once you get there.
The walk was awesome not recommended to do it if your hungover but that did help me sweat everything out. The walk is easy but if any elderly that can’t walk or is difficult to walk don’t do it. It’s flat then hilly and full of rocks. The water fall is amazing but the only downside of it is that you can’t walk all the way down to the bottom it’s closed off due to fallen trees. So you can only see it from where we took the photo. Is it worth the money maybe, but you should look elsewhere to get to a waterfall up close. You drive over the water and that’s free you can’t miss it. If we would of known that we couldn’t get to the bottom we would of gone to another one."
Elfego Sanchez Jr
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Rio Celeste is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna or Upala. Many visitors rent a car or hire a taxi. Some tours also include transportation from nearby towns.
Yes, it's a popular day trip from La Fortuna, though it requires an early start. The drive takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours each way.
Renting a car offers the most flexibility, allowing you to stop at scenic points. Alternatively, guided tours often provide convenient transportation and a guide.
Several shuttle services operate between popular tourist hubs like La Fortuna and Rio Celeste. Booking in advance is recommended.
The roads leading to the park can be unpaved and bumpy in sections, especially closer to the entrance. A 4x4 vehicle is not strictly necessary but can provide a more comfortable ride.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entrance fees apply and are typically paid online in advance. It's essential to check the official park website for current pricing and booking procedures.
No, tickets must be purchased online in advance. There is no ticket counter at the park, and on-site service can be unreliable.
The park typically opens in the morning and closes in the late afternoon. It's best to verify the exact hours on the official park website before your visit.
While not always mandatory, booking online in advance is highly recommended to guarantee entry and avoid potential issues with limited capacity or slow internet.
Information on discounts can vary. It's advisable to check the official park ticketing portal for any available concessions or special rates.
🎫 🥾 Onsite Experience
The main trail is about 3 miles (5 km) round trip and can be challenging with steep, rocky sections and stairs. It leads to the waterfall and other viewpoints. +1
Swimming is generally prohibited in Rio Celeste and its waterfall due to safety concerns and to protect the delicate ecosystem.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and various bird species. Keep an eye out during your hike!
The hike to the waterfall typically takes about 1 to 1.5 hours each way, depending on your pace and how often you stop to observe nature.
The trail is considered strenuous with steep inclines and uneven terrain, making it difficult for those with significant mobility challenges. +1
📸 📸 Photography
The main viewpoint for the waterfall offers iconic shots. The river itself provides stunning turquoise vistas along the trail.
The main viewpoint is accessible, but you can only see the waterfall from a designated area due to fallen trees.
Early morning offers softer light and fewer crowds, which can be ideal for photography. Midday sun can be harsh.
Drone usage is typically restricted in national parks to protect wildlife and visitor experience. Check park regulations before flying.
Using a polarizing filter can help enhance the vibrant blue tones. Experiment with white balance to capture the true color.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider packing snacks to enjoy before or after your hike, as food is restricted on the trails. Booking tickets online in advance is crucial to avoid queues. If the full hike seems too strenuous, you can still experience some of the magic by driving over the river, where you can see its color for free.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
Be sure to carry sufficient water and wear sturdy hiking shoes. The moderate challenge of the hike can be a great way to connect with nature and enjoy a sense of accomplishment. Keep an eye out for wildlife; you might even encounter other solo travelers or small groups to share the experience with.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1 Early morning light provides softer illumination and fewer people, ideal for capturing the best shots. Experiment with polarizing filters to enhance the blue hues and consider a wide-angle lens for the waterfall and expansive river views. Be mindful of the trail conditions; while you can get great shots along the path, remember to prioritize safety. The bubbling springs also offer unique photographic subjects.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic Behind Rio Celeste's Color
+1This unique geological process is most visible downstream from where the two rivers converge. The intensity of the blue can vary depending on factors like sunlight, rainfall, and the concentration of minerals. While the exact science is complex, the visual result is undeniably magical and a major draw for visitors to Tenorio Volcano National Park.
+1Visitors often express awe at the unreal color, with many describing it as otherworldly or like something out of a fairytale. The contrast between the bright blue water and the lush green rainforest creates a truly picturesque scene, making it a photographer's dream.
+1Hiking the Trails of Tenorio Volcano National Park
While the hike is considered moderately challenging, the effort is widely regarded as worthwhile for the stunning natural beauty encountered along the way. Hikers are advised to wear sturdy, closed-toe shoes with good traction, as the trails can become slippery, especially after rain. Bringing plenty of water is also crucial, as there are limited opportunities to refill.
Beyond the main attraction of the waterfall, the trails offer opportunities to spot diverse wildlife. Keep your eyes peeled for monkeys swinging through the trees, colorful toucans, and various other bird species. The park's rich biodiversity adds another layer of excitement to the hiking adventure.
Planning Your Visit: Practicalities and Tips
When it comes to what to bring, comfortable and supportive hiking shoes are non-negotiable due to the trail conditions. Pack ample water, as food is generally restricted on the trails. Be prepared for rainforest weather; a light rain jacket or poncho is advisable, as showers can occur unexpectedly.
For those looking to maximize their experience, arriving early in the morning is recommended. This strategy helps avoid the largest crowds, offers a more serene atmosphere, and increases your chances of spotting wildlife. Consider visiting during the dry season (December to April) for the clearest water color, though the park is beautiful year-round.
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