Northern Zone
Río Celeste
The turquoise river of Tenorio Volcano National Park and its waterfall.
The sky-blue river
Inside Tenorio Volcano National Park flows the Río Celeste, famous for its intense turquoise color. The tone comes from a natural phenomenon: at a spot called Los Teñideros two clear rivers meet, and the volcanic minerals they carry scatter the light and turn the water sky blue.
Things to do
- Río Celeste trail: a hike of about 6 to 7 kilometers round trip through rainforest, of moderate difficulty.
- Río Celeste Waterfall: the most photographed spot, reached by a long staircase.
- Laguna Azul, Los Borbollones and Los Teñideros: turquoise pools, bubbling volcanic gases and the point where the river changes color.
- Tenorio Volcano viewpoint, on clear days.
- Tubing or swimming outside the park: there are pools and river tours outside the protected area.
Before you go (important)
- Swimming is not allowed inside the park, including at the waterfall and the pools.
- Tickets are sold online on the SINAC platform, by time slot. The park is open every day and the last entry is early, in the early afternoon.
- After heavy rain the water can look less blue, and the park sometimes closes because of trail conditions.
Tips
- Arrive early and wear shoes with good grip: the trail is often muddy.
- Pets and strollers are not allowed.
Getting there
The nearest town is Bijagua. Río Celeste is an hour and a half from Liberia airport and about two hours from La Fortuna, so it is a natural stop between Arenal and the beaches of Guanacaste.
Where to stay in Río Celeste
Hostal Río Celeste ★★
Budget · Shared pool, Wi-Fi
from $45 per night
Hotel Río Celeste Boutique ★★★★
Comfort · Pool, Wi-Fi, Restaurant
from $95 per night
Río Celeste Lodge & Spa ★★★★★
Premium · Spa, Pool, Restaurant, Transfers
from $180 per night
Things to do in Río Celeste
- Guided hike to Río Celeste from $35 pp
- River tubing from $50 pp
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Plan your trip
from $45 per night
Choose hotel, nights and activities; prices follow the season.
Best time to visit
February to April; after heavy rain the water can look less blue