Rio Celeste
The Río Celeste winds through the verdant rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park. You can opt to see this bright blue river on a moderately challenging 4.5-mile (7.5 km) hike. It's also possible to take a 1-mile (1.5 km) hike that goes directly to the Río Celeste Waterfall from the entrance of the park.
Plan my TripPlanned with a local insider, takes just 2 minutes.
The Río Celeste becomes blue at a point where two clear-water tributaries merge, at a point called El Teñidor. El Teñidor translates to “The Dyer” in English. Scientists have come up with numerous theories as to where the Río Celeste gets its color. Most recently they have discovered that rocks at the bottom of the river have a mineral coating that includes silicon, oxygen, and aluminum. It is the size of these minerals, as well as the reflection of the sunlight, that gives the water its incredible hue.
Along the trail you can also see thermal hot springs and a blue lagoon. Visitors must stay on the trail so as not to disrupt any part of the forest’s ecosystem.
The Río Celeste can be accessed from either Gautuso or Bijagua. Gautuso is about an hour from La Fortuna. It takes closer to an hour and 45 minutes to reach Bijagua. Accessing the park from Bijagua is somewhat easier, and the main road in Bijagua has been recently upgraded.
Wildlife Sightings
Spotted at Rio Celeste
White-faced capuchin monkey
Humpback whale
Sea turtles
Resplendent quetzal
Jaguar
Scarlet macaw
Keel-billed toucan
Red-eyed tree frog
Blue jeans frog
Howler monkey
Squirrel monkey
Baird's tapir
Agouti
Coati
American crocodile
Green iguana
Fer-de-lance
Bullet ant
Magnificent frigatebird
Tours & Activities
Experiences in Rio Celeste
Explore hand-picked Rio Celeste tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Arenal
Rio Celeste Hike
Tour
Tenorio Volcano Area
Rio Celeste Tubing
Tour
Tenorio Volcano Area
Tenorio Volcano and Rio Celeste Hike
Tour
Tenorio Volcano Area
Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Guided Rainforest Hike
Tour
Trips to Inspire
Rio Celeste itineraries
Explore hand-picked Rio Celeste itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
From $1,324 per person
9 days · Monteverde
Friends
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that juxtaposes bustling urban energy with lush, untouched rainforests, delivering a dynamic escape from everyday routine. From San José’s lively streets you’ll head to Monteverde’s cloud‑forest canopy for sky tram rides and hikes, then dive into Rio Celeste’s turquoise waters and trek El Silencio’s volcanic paths. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides will immerse you in coffee farms, rainforest sounds, and volcanic vistas, leaving you with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s spirited hospitality and natural wonder.
Costa Rica
From $2,866 per person
23 days · San Gerardo de Dota, Puerto Jimenez, Drake Bay, Jaco +3
Family
Emmett & Bridgette explored Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes on an extensive self‑drive adventure. From Corcovado’s rain‑soaked forest and Cabo Blanco’s coastal cliffs to Rio Celeste’s cloud‑forest, they hiked, kayaked mangroves, and floated down turquoise rivers. Friendly local guides shared conservation stories, letting both leave with a deeper respect for Costa Rica’s wild heart and its sustainable rhythms.
Costa Rica