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.
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.
Rio Celeste itineraries from local insiders
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.
Big Multi Family Group Adventure
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.
On the Road to Pura Vida
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.
Experiences in Rio Celeste
Explore hand-picked Rio Celeste tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Rio Celeste Hike
Rio Celeste Tubing
Tenorio Volcano and Rio Celeste Hike
Rio Celeste and Tenorio Volcano Guided Rainforest Hike
Where to stay in Rio Celeste
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Rio Celeste accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Rio Celeste Hideaway
The Río Celeste Hideaway is located near the Tenorio Volcano National Park in the northern highlands of Costa Rica. The renowned Río Celeste – with its mystical, creamy-blue waters – flows through this part of the country, attracting visitors from far and wide. Perfect for couples, honeymooners or small families, the Río Celeste Hideaway offers its guests a unique place to stay while traveling in Costa Rica.
Celeste Mountain Lodge
Nestled between the Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes in Guanacaste's northern highlands, Celeste Mountain Lodge's location couldn't be better - hikes through the Tenorio Volcano National Park, rafting along the Río Celeste and horseback rides to the Bijagua Waterfall are easily arranged and widely enjoyed.
Cataratas Bijagua Lodge
The Cataratas Bijagua Lodge is set on the lush slopes of the Miravalles Volcano and the banks of the Bijagua River in the Guanacaste province. Within the Bijauga de Upala region, this rural lodge is devoted to sustainable living and a rural lifestyle.
Tenorio Lodge
The Tenorio Lodge is located between the Tenorio and Miravalles Volcanoes, in the northern plains of Costa Rica, close to Guanacaste's regional capital of Liberia.
Sueno Rio Celeste Boutique B&B
Sueno Rio Celeste Boutique is an intimate bed and breakfast situated just outside the small town Bijagua in northern Costa Rica. Bijagua lies in the valley between the Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes, and offers visitors stunning scenery alongside some fabulous outdoor activities.
Natural Lodge Cano Negro
The Natural Lodge Caño Negro is set in the lush wetlands of the northern zone of Costa Rica, close to the small village of Los Chiles and three miles from the Nicaraguan border. The Caño Negro Wildlife Refuge, considered to be one of the most important biological areas of the country, is home to the Caño Negro Lagoon and Rio Frio.
Río Perdido
This eco-friendly hotel operates a private 600-acre (242-ha) reserve and thermal springs. Its bungalows, restaurant, and grounds are designed to use water and energy efficiently, as well as offer a wealth of fun activities for guests to enjoy.
Arenal Lodge
The Arenal Lodge is situated in the Northern Lowlands of Costa Rica, just outside of the popular town of La Fortuna. This region is blessed with natural beauty and peaceful tranquility. Nature lovers will consider the area in and around Arenal and the quaint village of La Fortuna to be a slice of heaven.
Tabacon Thermal Resort and Spa
At Tabacon Resort, you can enjoy the natural heat of the Tabacon Hot Springs, the purity of the surrounding rainforest, and rooms decorated with locally crafted furnishings. Treat yourself to a divine combination of amenities and simple luxury located outside of La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano National Park.
The Springs Resort and Spa
The Springs Resort and Spa has such a stunning view of the Arenal Volcano, so much so that location scouts chose it for filming “Keeping up with the Kardashians” and “The Bachelor.” Visitors come here for the views as well as the stunning series of mineral pools where visitors can soak up the tropical rainforest.
Hotel Campo Verde
Hotel Campo Verde is located right at the base of Arenal Volcano, just minutes northwest of La Fortuna. This paradise is surrounded by beautiful, lush flora and fauna. The picturesque town of La Fortuna is a wonderful place to do some shopping, dining and bird watching.
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa
Arenal Kioro Suites and Spa is located in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, near the majestic Arenal Volcano. Nature lovers will find themselves surrounded by unparalleled beauty that includes tropical rainforests, rolling green pastures, volcano views, and the grand Arenal Lake. The quaint, yet bustling town of La Fortuna is a great location to find tasty restaurants, do some shopping and marvel at the spectacular views.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
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Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
