Celeste River (Río Celeste)

The Basics

Reached by hiking through the surrounding rain forest, Rio Celeste rewards visitors with its natural beauty and a number of other sights along the river. Most notable are the Rio Celeste Waterfall, a favorite photo spot where the river tumbles into a striking blue lagoon; the Teñideros, where two rivers merge in the Celeste; and the Poza Azul, the most stunning “dye pool.”

Many travelers opt to visit the national park on a 1- or 2-day tour from Tamarindo or La Fortuna. Excursions usually include a hike to the waterfall. Although swimming is prohibited within the park, it is possible to bathe in the river’s hot springs or enjoy white-water tubing along the river.

Things to Know Before You Go

• There is an admission fee to enter the Tenorio Volcano National Park and visitor numbers are limited, so it’s best to arrive early.

• The trail to the waterfall is 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) round-trip, and hiking to the waterfall takes about an hour.

• A raincoat and sturdy shoes with a good grip are essential, as rain is common even in the dry season. The trails are unpaved and can get extremely muddy.

• Restrooms, a restaurant, and a car park are located at the entrance to the national park.

How to Get There

The Río Celeste is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in northwestern Costa Rica, about 100 miles (160 kilometers) from San José. There is no public transport directly to the park, but it’s possible to take a taxi from the nearby town of Bijagua.

When to Get There

The river’s startling color change is best viewed during the dry season (December to April). Excess rainfall can dilute the reactive chemicals, leaving the waters with a less appealing muddy hue. The busiest period is from February to April, when it’s best to make an early start. Hikers allowed on the trail are limited, so you might find yourself having to wait if it gets too crowded.

Tenorio Volcano National Park

Hiking is the main activity in Tenorio Volcano National Park and there are a number of well-signposted short trails to follow. The Waterfall Trail is the main attraction, but worthwhile detours include the Mirador, a 5-minute trail that affords gorgeous views across the rain forest; and the Tenorio Volcano trail, although it’s not possible to climb to the summit. The park also harbors a wealth of wildlife, including tapirs, howler monkeys, ocelots, and jaguars.

What is the best time of year to visit the Celeste River (Río Celeste)?

The best time to visit the Celeste River (Río Celeste) is during Costa Rica’s dry season—December to April—when you'll have the clearest skies and the best chance of seeing the river's vibrant blue color. In the rainy season from May to November, the trails can be muddy and the river can appear less blue.

What causes the unique blue color of the Celeste River?

The unique blue color of Celeste River is caused by a rare phenomenon: The confluence of two clear rivers—the Rio Buenavista (which is alkaline) and Quebrada Agria (a creek bearing the mineral aluminum silicate, making it acidic)—mixes and, under certain light conditions, scatters light wavelengths, creating the magical turquoise hue.

Can you swim in the Celeste River?

No, swimming in the Celeste River isn’t allowed—it’s prohibited to protect the delicate ecosystem and preserve the water's unique color. However, you can swim in the river’s turquoise waters outside the park at the Rio Celeste Free Pool.

Do you need a guide to hike to Celeste River?

A guide is not mandatory for hiking to and along the Celeste River. The trails are well maintained, linear, marked, and partially concrete, so it’s unlikely you’ll get lost or have issues. However, a guide can offer valuable insights into the local flora and fauna, as well as the area's history and geology.

Is it hard to hike to Celeste Waterfall?

Most consider the hike to Celeste Waterfall to be moderately challenging, though it depends on your level of fitness. The trail is 3.7 miles (6 kilometers) and involves some steep and uneven sections, including over 200 stairs. The path can be muddy, especially during the rainy season, so suitable footwear is a must.

How do I get to Celeste River from San Jose?

It’s about a 4-hour drive if traveling to Celeste River from San Jose by car. Alternatively, buses run from San Jose to Bijagua, a town near the park entrance, and then you can take a taxi into the park. Of course, an organized tour takes out all the navigation hassles, as most tours include round-trip transportation.

Ways to explore

Hiking along the Celeste River is a highlight of any visit to Tenorio Volcano National Park. The most popular trek leads to the Rio Celeste Waterfall, where the river tumbles into a striking blue lagoon, while other notable photo spots are the “Teñideros,” where two rivers merge into the Celeste, and the Poza Azul, a stunning “dye pool.”

Guided tours are the easiest way to discover the park, and many travelers visit on a day trip from Tamarindo, La Fortuna, or Guanacaste. To explore further, take a night walk or horseback ride through the rainforest, or enjoy tubing along the river.

Accessibility

The national park isn’t wheelchair accessible; some trails are manageable for those with limited mobility, but they can be slippery after rainfall.

Age limits

None; the park’s trails are easily accessible for kids.

What to pack

National park ticket (must be bought in advance), cash (parking fees are cash only), reusable water bottle, camera, sunscreen, bug spray, waterproof backpack, raincoat

What to wear

Lightweight clothing suitable for warm and wet weather, clothes you don’t mind getting muddy, hiking boots with a good grip

Not allowed

Swimming is prohibited along the river, except at the Hot Springs.

Amenities

Ranger station, lodging, drinks kiosk, drinking water, restrooms, paid parking

Address

The Río Celeste is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in northwestern Costa Rica, about 120 miles (190 kilometers) from San José. You’ll need your own transport or to join a tour.

Driving

From La Fortuna, it’s about a 1-hour drive to reach the park; take National Route 6 to Bijagua, then follow the signs. Note that you’ll need a 4WD if you’re visiting in the rainy season.

Public transportation

There is no public transport directly to the park, but it’s possible to take a taxi from the nearby town of Bijagua.

Best times to visit

Tenorio Volcano National Park is open daily year-round from 8am to 4pm, with the last entrance at 2pm. Visitor numbers are limited, so it’s best to arrive early to avoid disappointment. A morning hike usually means cooler weather and more wildlife-watching opportunities, too.

Best days to visit

Plan your trip or book a tour midweek to dodge the crowds; the trails are almost always busiest on the weekends.

Best months to visit

The dry season (December through April) is the best time to visit, when the trails are easier to hike and lower water levels give the river its brightest hue. Avoid the rainiest months of September and October when excessive rainfall dilutes the color.