Coming in at number 4 of our list of Natural Wonders in Costa Rica is the magnificent Rio Celeste Waterfalls. Located in Tenorio Volcano National Park, Rio Celeste meanders its way throughout the park grounds where it finally spills over into a breathtaking waterfall and oh-so-inviting, extremely photogenic pool. With its undeniably amazing color and a sight to behold, Rio Celeste is of course a shoo-in for our list of 7 Natural Wonders in Costa Rica.
What Makes Rio Celeste So Blue?
But how does Rio Celeste get that incredible blue color? Well, Rio Celeste is actually fed by two rivers, Buenavista and Sour Creek, both of which are somewhat chemically unique themselves. The vibrant blue is the result of a sudden change in pH… thanks to the high acidity waters of Sour Creek meeting the Buenavista River with its high concentration of alum inosilicate particles. At the confluence of these two rivers, where Rio Celeste is formed, the water is the most intensely blue. But even as it continues quietly winding its way through the lush green of the jungle foliage, the vibrant blue of the Rio Celeste remains in stark contrast to the green and it is absolutely breathtaking… truly a lifetime “must see”. Pencil it in it on your Costa Rica Bucket List right now, I’ll wait!
When is the Best Time to visit Rio Celeste in Costa Rica?
Depending the time of the year, Rio Celeste can be a little less celestial blue and a little more like chocolate milk. During the rainy season, the heavy rains can muck up the rivers. If visiting Rio Celeste is at the top of your bucket list, we suggest book your Costa Rica vacation between December and April before the heavy rains hit. However, even if you miss out on the bright blue phenomena, hiking the trails of the Tenorio National Park are all still worth it. From the entrance to the Tenorio Volcano National Park to Rio Celeste, you will actually pass through 5 different micro climates! It is no wonder they sell rain boots and rain ponchos at the entrance.
Be Prepared to Traverse 5 Microclimates in the Tenorio Volcano National Park…Yippity Skippity!!
Can I Swim in Rio Celeste?
No, unfortunately the chemical reaction that gives Rio Celeste that intense blue color makes the water not safe to swim in. I know, a bit disappointing. But not to worry, there are natural hot springs you can find and take a dip in elsewhere in the park. Keep in mind however that the PH levels change and at times you will not be allowed to enter the pools for your own safety. Be sure to check with the park staff ahead of time.
How Do I Get to Rio Celeste in Costa Rica?
The main access to Rio Celeste is from the Tenorio Volcano National Park Entrance. If you have your own vehicle, you can of course simply pay admission to the Tenorio Volcano National Park and explore the whole thing at your leisure. There is a hike that follows the Rio Celeste from its ultra-blue start all the way to its gorgeous crescendo: the aforementioned famous waterfall and extremely photogenic pool.
Guide at Volcan Tenorio Parque Nacional Warns of Poison Ivy Type Plants Along the Trails
But if you really want to get the most of your Rio Celeste experience, we recommend a guided tour. Guides know all about the parks evolving climate, flora & fauna, the best trails, where wildlife is hiding, etc. Best of all, a guide will take your photo in front of the falls rather than you having to take a selfie and miss out on the most epic photo shots.
There are guided hiking tours you can take from both La Fortuna & Arenal and Tamarindo & Papagayo in Guanacaste which specifically highlight the Rio Celeste and the national park which we recommend to get the most of your experience.
Guided Tour to Rio Celeste from La Fortuna & Arenal Hotels
The tour to Rio Celeste from La Fortuna is between 8 and 9 hours typically. This is a straight shot there and back with a stop for lunch along the way. The guides here are very knowledgeable and love what they do. You will be able to tell from their passion the moment you hit the national park. This is also the most economical guided tour out there.
The Blue Rivers of Rio Celeste
Guided Tours to Rio Celeste from Guanacaste
There are actually 3 options to visit Rio Celeste from Guanacaste. There is the straightforward Tenorio Volcano National Park + Rio Celeste Hike which is about 10 hours total depending on where you are staying. Then there is a 12 hour combo tour with the Heliconia’s Hanging Bridges + Rio Celeste Hike which is pretty popular. If you have not heard, the hanging bridge in Costa Rica are pretty amazing.
And finally, probably the best deal out there right now, is the Rio Celeste, Sloth Sanctuary & Llano de Cortez Waterfall combo. This is a long day coming in at 12+ hours. But hey, while you are headed in that direction, you may as well hit all the best stops! Aside from the Tenorio National Park & Rio Celeste Waterfall, this tour takes you to a sloth sanctuary and frog farm where you have the chance to see wildlife up close. The guides here are one of a kind. Not to mention you will have the chance to take Nat Geo worthy photos of Sloths, Frogs, butterflies and whatever other critters call Finca Verde home.
Resident Sloth in Finca Verde, Costa Rica
And because we are in Costa Rica where one waterfall is just never enough, it visits the stunningly large Llano de Cortez Waterfall too!!
The Impressive Llano de Cortez Waterfall in Costa Rica
The Impressive Llano de Cortez Waterfall in Costa RicaBut that’s just one trail to Rio Celeste you will find in the Tenorio Volcano National Park… there are numerous other trails to explore. The Tenorio National Park itself is one big adventure!!! With its dormant Tenorio Volcano, distinct rainforest, cloud forest, river habitats and world class bird watching; there is certainly plenty to see and do in Tenorio Volcano National Park. Rio Celeste is just the icing on the cake.
Rio Celeste Waterfalls in Action. Absolutely Breathtaking!
We know, there are so many destinations in Costa Rica to choose from. But there is a certain tinge of excitement, that twist of uniqueness and wonder in a visit to Rio Celeste. If you’re looking for a rainforest experience with a little something extra, we definitely recommend a visit to Rio Celeste. Remember to bring your camera! But leave your filters behind… none needed here, living color is as lovely and vibrant as it gets.
Other Natural Wonders in Costa Rica You May Want to Visit
Tortuguero Canals
Cerro Chirripo National Park
Isla del Coco Marine Park
Poas Volcano
Check out some of our favorite Natural Wonders in Costa Rica so you can decide which one is your favorite. Or heck, put them all on your bucket list and plan the best Costa Rica vacation ever!!