Hiking • Nature • Full-day tour

Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike

Discover one of Costa Rica’s most magical places on a guided hike to the Rio Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park. Walk deep into the rainforest to see turquoise waters, bubbling hot springs and the famous “Teñideros”, where the river turns its unreal blue color.

  • 7 km guided hike through lush rainforest trails
  • Visit the iconic Rio Celeste Waterfall & the Blue Lagoon
  • See the Teñideros, viewpoints, hot springs and bubbling river
  • Includes park entrance, lunch, snacks & bilingual guide
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Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike – Tenorio Volcano National Park

Experience overview

The Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike is a journey through the heart of Costa Rica’s pristine rainforest. Starting at the park entrance, the well-marked trail covers approximately 7 km (round trip) and takes about three hours of hiking, plus transfer and lunch time for a full-day adventure.

Along the way you’ll reach the impressive Rio Celeste Waterfall, the calm Blue Lagoon, panoramic viewpoints of Tenorio Volcano and the magical Teñideros, where two rivers meet and transform into the famous turquoise color due to a natural phenomenon.

This is a moderate hike with muddy sections, humidity and some steep parts. It’s suitable for active travelers with normal physical condition who love nature, hiking and discovering hidden waterfalls.

Why Rio Celeste is a must-do from La Fortuna

Looking for something truly special during your stay in La Fortuna? A day trip to Rio Celeste is hard to beat. You’ll disconnect from the crowds and immerse yourself in dense rainforest, listen to the sounds of the jungle and admire one of the most unique landscapes in Costa Rica – the vibrant blue waters of Rio Celeste.

Throughout the hike, your local certified guide will share stories about the area, point out wildlife, explain the science behind the color of the river and reveal hidden corners of the park. At the end of the tour, you’ll enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant – the perfect way to finish an unforgettable day.

Photo gallery

Real images from the Rio Celeste trail, waterfall, Blue Lagoon, viewpoints and forest.

Rio Celeste Waterfall viewpoint Blue Lagoon along the trail Hiking through the rainforest Teñideros – where the river turns blue Bubbling river and hot spring sections Lunch at a local restaurant

Quick details

  • Duration: Full-day tour (approx. 8–10 hours total)
  • Hiking distance: About 7 km round trip
  • Difficulty: Moderate – muddy, uneven terrain, some steep sections
  • Minimum age: 5 years old
  • Departure: From La Fortuna area
  • Location: Tenorio Volcano National Park, Costa Rica

Tour highlights & itinerary

  1. Pickup
    Early morning pickup at your hotel in an air-conditioned vehicle and drive towards Tenorio Volcano National Park.
  2. Arrival & briefing
    Meet your certified bilingual guide, receive a safety briefing and start the hike on a well-marked jungle trail.
  3. Rio Celeste Waterfall
    Descend to the famous viewpoint of the Rio Celeste Waterfall and admire the surreal blue water and lush canyon walls.
  4. Blue Lagoon & viewpoints
    Continue along the trail to the calm Blue Lagoon and enjoy panoramic views of Tenorio Volcano from a lookout point.
  5. Teñideros & bubbling river
    Reach Los Teñideros, where two rivers meet and magically turn blue. On the way back, walk alongside bubbling sections of the river and small hot springs.
  6. Lunch at a local restaurant
    Finish the hike and head to a nearby restaurant to enjoy a typical Costa Rican lunch before returning to La Fortuna.

What’s included

  • Certified bilingual local guide
  • Round-trip transportation with A/C from La Fortuna
  • Entrance fee to Tenorio Volcano National Park / Rio Celeste
  • Bottled water and light snacks
  • Traditional Costa Rican lunch
  • Liability insurance
  • Support for sustainable tourism initiatives

Not included

  • Personal expenses and extra drinks
  • Tips for guide and driver
  • Alcoholic beverages
  • Hotel in La Fortuna (available on request as a package)

What to bring / wear

  • Hiking shoes or sturdy closed-toe footwear (it can be muddy)
  • Comfortable, lightweight clothing
  • Rain jacket or poncho
  • Insect repellent
  • Sunscreen and hat
  • Small daypack for personal items
  • Camera or smartphone for photos

Is this Rio Celeste tour right for you?

This tour is ideal for travelers who enjoy the outdoors and don’t mind getting a bit muddy. The trail is considered moderate, with uneven terrain, humidity and some uphill sections – but the views and unique blue river make the effort totally worth it.

Perfect for you if you are:

  • An active traveler who enjoys hiking at a steady pace
  • A nature lover excited to explore rainforest and wildlife
  • A curious student interested in the science behind Rio Celeste’s color
  • A photography enthusiast looking for unforgettable landscape shots

This tour may not be the best option if:

  • You have limited mobility or difficulty walking for long periods
  • You are traveling with very young children or someone who dislikes muddy, uneven trails

Age & safety restrictions

  • Minimum age: 5 years old
  • Physical condition: Good physical health required due to muddy sections and moderate inclines
  • Swimming: Swimming in Rio Celeste is not allowed, as it is a protected national park
  • Weather: The blue color depends on natural conditions; heavy rain can affect visibility. Refunds are only given if the park officially closes the trail due to weather.