Rio Celeste & Los Tenideros is a park located in central Costa Rica. It’s an amazing hiking area with lots of animals, through dense jungle.
There’s a massive blue waterfall to see, and many river features.
How To Get There
If you’re not yet in Costa Rica, be sure to check Expedia for flights. Compare different dates and airports to find the best price before you visit paradise.
Once you’re in Costa Rica, you’ll find a few different routes to arrive at Rio Celeste. If you’re coming from Highway 1(the main north/south highway), you’ll be turning a few kilometers north of Canas.
Once you reach a small town called Bijagua de Upala, there’s a small road you’ll turn on. It’s called Cam. al Parque on Google Maps.
This road is winding and has great overgrowth, but use caution. Several sections of the road are concrete and can become slippery in certain conditions. Take it slow so you make it to Rio Celeste in one piece.
If you're heading out for an adventure, you're going to need some cold watch and snacks. Pick up a backpack cooler, which has ample room for what you'll need while you enjoy the beach. There is an added benefit of freeing up your hands to carry the fun stuff!
What To Bring
The hike at Rio Celeste is pretty incredible, but it is a long one. You can expect to walk more than 5km if you want to see each location. This is up and down several mountains which are either stairs or rough terrain.
Only reusable water bottles are allowed in the park, and no snacks. There’s a security guard checking bags as well so be sure to show up with the proper gear.
The following gear is recommended for this hike:
- Comfortable back pack
- One liter of water per person in the pack. One additional liter waiting in the car.
- Eat some snacks before departing.
- Comfortable hiking shoes or boots. Be sure to wear socks.
- Bug spray
- Trekking Poles (if required)
- Binoculars for animal viewing
Before you head out, be sure to think of anything else you might need. If you forget something, there’s a few stores in Bijagua de Upala which are large and have a wide selection.
Protect your gear with a waterproof fanny pack. These are great as you can be confident that nothing will get wet as you tour Costa Rica. You definitely don't want to leave important items on the beach, so with these packs you can explore the water without constantly watching your stuff!
Enjoy The Hike
This park has 3 primary locations to hike and visit. The closest is the waterfall. It’s very big, very blue and awesome to see in person. The path down to the waterfall is a stair case that was busy with people and kind of slippery. Take your time when you’re walking down to it.
The next area is the Blue Lagoon. This path is a bit farther and involves going up and down a winding and rough path. It would be difficult to traverse for somebody with mobility issues. Along the way, you’ll stop at The Mirador – Lookout. It will give you a great view of the mountains and valleys around the park.
The Blue Lagoon is really cool, it’s bright blue and fairly calm. You’ll definitely want to take a break here after the winding path.
Then at the very end, there’s the Mixing Point. This is a really cool area where a crystal clear river mixes with seeping mineral deposits. You can actually see where the minerals come up under the river and cause the water to turn blue.
During the hike we happened to see a few Vine Snakes, a Tucan, and some unique lizards. If you’re interested in a tour guide, there’s lots who can offer this service.
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FAQ: Hiking to Rio Celeste
How long does the hike to Rio Celeste take?
The hike to Rio Celeste typically takes around 3 to 4 hours round trip, depending on your pace and how long you spend at the various points of interest along the trail.Is the hike to Rio Celeste difficult?
The hike is considered moderately challenging. The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season, with some steep sections. However, it’s manageable for most people with a basic level of fitness.When is the best time to visit Rio Celeste?
The best time to visit Rio Celeste is during the dry season, from December to April, when the trail conditions are better and the river is most likely to be its iconic bright blue color.Why is the water in Rio Celeste blue?
The unique blue color of Rio Celeste is due to a chemical reaction between volcanic minerals and the river’s water. The phenomenon is best observed where two rivers meet, creating the blue hue.Are there facilities along the hike to Rio Celeste?
Yes, there are basic facilities at the park entrance, including restrooms and a small visitor center. However, there are no facilities along the trail itself, so be prepared with water and snacks.Can you swim in Rio Celeste?
Swimming in Rio Celeste is prohibited within the park to preserve the natural beauty and fragile ecosystem of the river. However, there are areas outside the park where you can swim in the same river.What should I bring for the hike to Rio Celeste?
It’s recommended to bring sturdy hiking shoes, plenty of water, snacks, insect repellent, and a rain jacket, especially during the rainy season. A walking stick can also be helpful on the muddy sections of the trail.How do I get to Rio Celeste?
Rio Celeste is located in Tenorio Volcano National Park. The most common way to reach it is by car from nearby towns like La Fortuna or Liberia. The park is about a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from these locations.Is there an entrance fee for Tenorio Volcano National Park?
Yes, there is an entrance fee to enter Tenorio Volcano National Park, which is where Rio Celeste is located. The fee is around $12 for foreign visitors and $2 for Costa Rican residents.Are guided tours available for the hike to Rio Celeste?
Yes, guided tours are available and can provide more insight into the area’s natural history and the unique phenomenon of the river’s color. Many tour companies will include transportation, entrance fees, and a guide who can for the hike.
