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Hike to the surreal turquoise falls of Río Celeste, then swap boots for a tube and float through volcanic-fed pools on a full-day tour from La Fortuna. Expect rainforest trails, gentle river currents, and a Costa Rican lunch.
Hike to the surreal turquoise falls of Río Celeste, then swap boots for a tube and float through volcanic-fed pools on a full-day tour from La Fortuna. Expect rainforest trails, gentle river currents, and a Costa Rican lunch.
You step off the minivan into warm, green air and the forest closes behind you like a living wall. Birdcalls puncture the humidity while leaf litter gives slightly underfoot as the trail climbs toward the sound of running water. Ahead, the river appears—an impossible turquoise that seems to dare you closer—then drops into a thunderous, moss-framed waterfall.
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Operated by Rio Celeste Nature · Bijagua, Guanacaste
You step off the minivan into warm, green air and the forest closes behind you like a living wall. Birdcalls puncture the humidity while leaf litter gives slightly underfoot as the trail climbs toward the sound of running water. Ahead, the river appears—an impossible turquoise that seems to dare you closer—then drops into a thunderous, moss-framed waterfall.
The route threads through Tenorio Volcano National Park, created to protect headwaters that feed Costa Rica’s northern lowlands. Geology does the heavy lifting here: volcanic minerals and a chemical reaction between sulfur and calcium carbonate give Río Celeste its striking blue. Locals in Bijagua have steered community tourism around these features for decades, balancing visitors with small-scale farms and guiding traditions.
On this full-day combination you’ll hike through mixed primary and secondary rainforest—rooted, sometimes muddy trails with short, steep pitches—before switching to an inflatable tube for a calm float in deeper river pools. Tubing sections are typically gentle (Class I–II); guides set the pace and point out plunge pools, natural rock formations and places to swim.
Practical guide: expect 6–7 hours total, multiple short trail sections adding to roughly 4–6 km of walking and about 150–250 m cumulative elevation gain on uneven terrain. Wear closed-toe shoes with grip, carry water and reef-safe sunscreen, and be ready for shifting weather. The tour includes a Costa Rican lunch; bring a small daypack and a dry bag for electronics. Arrive with local cash for tips and small purchases, and follow park rules—stay on trails and don’t apply sunscreen before entering the river to protect the fragile chemistry that creates the blue.
The hike is moderate: uneven paths, some steep short sections, and roughly 4–6 km of walking across the day with about 150–250 m cumulative elevation gain.
Yes—tubing sections are typically gentle (Class I–II) and guided; operators will set safety expectations and life vests are provided. Check age and weight limits with the operator.
The blue comes from a natural reaction between volcanic minerals and suspended particles; pollutants like sunscreen and soaps can alter water chemistry, so avoid applying them before entering the river.
Tours usually include guide, tubing equipment, park access and lunch; bring water, snacks, sun protection, insect repellent, sturdy shoes and a small dry bag for valuables.
Rio Celeste Nature operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.
You step off the minivan into warm, green air and the forest closes behind you like a living wall. Birdcalls puncture the humidity while leaf litter gives slightly underfoot as the trail climbs toward the sound of running water. Ahead, the river appears—an impossible turquoise that seems to dare you closer—then drops into a thunderous, moss-framed waterfall.
You step off the minivan into warm, green air and the forest closes behind you like a living wall. Birdcalls puncture the humidity while leaf litter gives slightly underfoot as the trail climbs toward the sound of running water. Ahead, the river appears—an impossible turquoise that seems to dare you closer—then drops into a thunderous, moss-framed waterfall.
The route threads through Tenorio Volcano National Park, created to protect headwaters that feed Costa Rica’s northern lowlands. Geology does the heavy lifting here: volcanic minerals and a chemical reaction between sulfur and calcium carbonate give Río Celeste its striking blue. Locals in Bijagua have steered community tourism around these features for decades, balancing visitors with small-scale farms and guiding traditions.
On this full-day combination you’ll hike through mixed primary and secondary rainforest—rooted, sometimes muddy trails with short, steep pitches—before switching to an inflatable tube for a calm float in deeper river pools. Tubing sections are typically gentle (Class I–II); guides set the pace and point out plunge pools, natural rock formations and places to swim.
Practical guide: expect 6–7 hours total, multiple short trail sections adding to roughly 4–6 km of walking and about 150–250 m cumulative elevation gain on uneven terrain. Wear closed-toe shoes with grip, carry water and reef-safe sunscreen, and be ready for shifting weather. The tour includes a Costa Rican lunch; bring a small daypack and a dry bag for electronics. Arrive with local cash for tips and small purchases, and follow park rules—stay on trails and don’t apply sunscreen before entering the river to protect the fragile chemistry that creates the blue.