Río Celeste

A strikingly turquoise river within Tenorio Volcano National Park, colored by volcanic minerals. A jungle hike leads to its vivid waterfall, blue lagoon and bubbling hot springs.

Things to do

• Río Celeste Waterfall — Descend around 250 steps to view the iconic turquoise cascade plunging into a milky-blue pool.
• Los Teñideros — Witness the exact spot where two clear rivers merge and volcanic minerals turn the water vivid blue.
• Blue Lagoon (Laguna Azul) — Photograph the serene turquoise lagoon along the main trail through Tenorio Volcano National Park.
• Borbollones hot springs — Watch bubbling, sulfurous volcanic springs seep into the river amid a rotten-egg scent.
• Mirador viewpoint — Climb to the lookout for sweeping views of Tenorio Volcano and the surrounding rainforest.
• Wildlife spotting on the trail — Keep an eye out for coatis, poison dart frogs, toucans and howler monkeys along the muddy jungle path.
• River tubing near La Fortuna del Bajo — Join a guided float on the clear waters downstream outside the park where swimming is permitted.

Food to try

• Casado — A hearty plate of rice, black beans, plantains, salad and a choice of meat served at local sodas near the park entrance.
• Gallo pinto — The classic Costa Rican breakfast of stir-fried rice and beans, often with eggs, cheese and Lizano sauce.
• Fresh tilapia — Locally farmed fish fried or grilled and served whole at roadside restaurants in the Bijagua area.
• Agua dulce and coffee — Warm drinks made from sugarcane or locally grown coffee, perfect after a rainy hike.
• Tres leches cake — A moist, milk-soaked sponge dessert commonly offered at family-run eateries.
• Fresh tropical fruit batidos — Blended smoothies of mango, papaya, pineapple or blackberry made with water or milk.

Local customs & good to know

• Swimming is prohibited in the park — To protect the fragile ecosystem, entering the turquoise water inside Tenorio Volcano National Park is forbidden and enforced.
• Arrive early and bring rubber boots — The trail gets muddy and slippery, and the park caps daily visitors, so come near opening or reserve ahead.
• Support Bijagua community tourism — The nearby town of Bijagua relies on eco-tourism, so hiring local guides and staying at family lodges directly benefits residents.
• Embrace 'pura vida' — This national phrase reflects Costa Ricans' relaxed, friendly attitude, so greet locals warmly and don't rush.

Nearby

• Lake Arenal — 23 km
• Venado Caves — 33 km
• Rincón de la Vieja National Park (Guanacaste) — 36 km
• Arenal Volcano — 44 km