Top Nature Experiences in Rio Celeste
Tenorio Volcano National Park is located in the northern lowlands of Costa Rica, right on the border between Guanacaste and Alajuela. Even though the volcano is dormant, the area has some of Costa Rica’s prettiest and most famous sights. With lots of natural wonders that include hot springs, abundant wildlife, and flush rainforests, the biggest attraction is Rio Celeste and its turquoise waterfall. The area focuses on rural tourism and outdoor activities, so most places to stay tend to cover the basics and allow you to indulge in the surroundings. This includes cabins, lodges, boutique hotels, and even camping spaces, glamping options, and tree houses.
A big stand-out among them is Rio Celeste Hideaway. It’s a great destination for adventure enthusiasts and eco-conscious travelers. The property has hiking trails, lots of rainforests, and enchanting waterfalls, while also providing modern comforts and privacy. Rio Celeste Hideaway features casitas with full amenities and a property that includes a pool area, great restaurants, and even a spa. It’s the best of both worlds: access Tenorio’s impressive natural wonders and enjoy world-class hospitality.
Highlights of Tenorio Volcano & Rio Celeste
The biggest highlight in the Tenorio Volcano National Park is the world-famous Rio Celeste. Rio Celeste has the perfect name: the water here is a striking turquoise. This is a natural occurrence. The volcano is dormant, but the geothermal activity below the surface is still ongoing. The rich minerals of this area taint the waters of the river and turn it into a fairytale blue. A local legend says that the river got this color because when God finished painting the sky, He cleaned the brushes in the river.
Rio Celeste includes many fantastic sights in one single place. Hiking along the trails, you can admire the rich rainforest with all its flora and fauna. As you go, there are other things to see. One attraction is called Los Teñideros, “Dyeing Place.” Here, two rivers merge and you can see the light-blue water contrasted with normal clear water. Another great spot is Los Hervideros, or “Boiling Place.” Here, hot springs come out scorching hot with bubbles from the underground gases released by the volcanic activity. Finally, the Rio Celeste Waterfall is the crowning jewel of this place. Standing 98 feet high, this incredible sight is at the bottom of a series of stairs that bring you even deeper into the forest.
Nature lovers and birdwatchers will also have a great time admiring the abundant plants and searching for all the creatures in Rio Celeste and Tenorio. Palms, heliconias, bromeliads, orchids, and ferns are all just some of the sights. Animals include capuchin monkeys, agoutis, tayras, crested guans, umbrellabirds, sunbitterns, a variety of reptiles, and another handful of amphibians.
What to Know about Tenorio/Rio Celeste Before Visiting
Tenorio Volcano and Rio Celeste are in a remote area surrounded by lots of forestry. It’s a place to disconnect from the everyday noise of the larger world and focus on the nature around you. It’s a place with winding roads and no big towns, centered around rural tourism. It’s ideal if you want a bit of a remote feeling during your stay. Usually, you’ll spend time at your hotel, head outside for adventure or wildlife tours, and then return to rest and enjoy the coziness of your room.
Going to the Tenorio Volcano National Park
If you want to hike to Rio Celeste Waterfall, we recommend booking a guided tour from a reputable provider. It’ll include round transportation, making it more accessible for everyone in your group. It’s also good to have a guide along since they can point out all the interesting details and give advice as to where to find what you want to see. If you go by yourself, we recommend you book your ticket ahead of time online. Many national parks in Costa Rica now have scheduled entrances to make things smoother for both visitors and the local nature. Make sure not to miss it!
Because of its location in the northern lowlands, this area is influenced by both Caribbean and Pacific winds, so weather can be unpredictable. Prepare for both hot days and occasional rain showers. An early morning visit to the park is the best way to avoid crowds or rain, and to have more chances to spot wildlife. If you’re a birdwatcher, make sure to be outside as early as possible as well to get a glimpse of as many species as possible.
Seeing the blue waters of Rio Celeste waterfall and its natural pools, many people want to touch them or swim in them. Sadly, you can’t swim in Rio Celeste. The water has high mineral content and geothermal gases, so it’s best not to have direct contact with it in case it abrases the skin.
Single-use plastics are also not permitted at the park, so only bring your reusable water bottle. There are many steps to come down to see Rio Celeste waterfall, so you’ll need it! Remember also that the trails can get muddy during the rainy season, so make sure your hiking shoes are in top condition if you visit between May and December.
How to Move Around Rio Celeste & Tenorio Volcano
Because of its remoteness, we recommend you hire private transportation to this area. An experienced driver makes any transfer both safer and livelier. If you prefer to rent a car, then go for a 4x4 because of the winding, narrow, and often muddy roads in that area. Always drive during daylight hours to avoid possible problems, and if you rely on digital maps, download them ahead of time in case the phone signal becomes spotty.
Rio Celeste is about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna/Arenal Volcano area, which is convenient if you want to have an immersive nature trip. In addition to the hiking and sights at Rio Celeste, nearby you can go on adventures such as river tubing, white water rafting, or horseback riding, and cultural activities such as a chocolate farm visit.
