Rio Celeste Hiking

Río Celeste Hiking is an experience you won’t soon forget.  The Río Celeste (river) winds through the verdant rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park.  The Río Celeste becomes amazingly blue at a point where two clear-water tributaries merge, at a point called El Teñidor (“The Dryer”). 

The Rio Celeste’s vibrant blue waters have led scientists to hypothesize about the origin of this magnificent show of color.  Most recently they have discovered that rocks at the bottom of the river have a mineral coating that includes silicon, oxygen, and aluminum.  Scientists believe that it is the size of these minerals, as well as the reflection of the sunlight, that gives the water its incredible hue and make it a destination not to be missed.  National Geographic named Rio Celeste of of the most beautiful places on the Planet due to its sparkling waters.  

In addition to the beauty of this river, hikers on the trail can also observe thermal hot springs and a blue lagoon. Park rules require that hikers must stay on the trail so as not to disrupt any part of the forest’s ecosystem.  We also combo this tour with a visit to the Sloth Sanctuary (you will see these creatures up close like rarely seen before).  We then spend the rest of time at Llanos de Cortez (a beautiful waterfall)  where hikers can enjoy a complimentary lunch, a swim and take pictures.  

Options are available to accommodate your level of hiking expertise.  For beginning hikers (or those with young children) we have a 1 mile/1.5km hike that starts at the park’s entrance and goes directly to the Rio Celeste Waterfall.  For a moderately challenging hike we also offer a 4.5 mile/7.5 km option to expand your views of Rio Celeste’s beauty.

Trip Details: 

Pick Up/Drop Off:  To be determined by group size/needs/location

Meals/Snacks:  Complimentary Lunch provided

What to Wear/Bring:  Comfortable clothing for hiking with bathing suit; sunscreen, hiking/water shoes; a simple backpack that you can carry easily; your attitude for adventure; a smile

What Not to Bring:  Things of value that should not get wet or you’d be sad if they got lost (examples:  iPad; iWatch, car keys to a rental car; your passport).