Hidden within the lush rainforests of Costa Rica, the Rio Celeste Waterfall is a natural wonder that feels almost otherworldly. Its strikingly vibrant turquoise waters cascade 30 meters (about 98 feet) into a serene pool surrounded by dense tropical greenery. The color, so surreal it seems painted, is a result of a unique chemical reaction between minerals from the Tenorio Volcano, creating a magical optical effect.
As you approach the falls, the sound of rushing water grows louder, building anticipation until you finally glimpse this jaw-dropping masterpiece framed by the emerald hues of the jungle. The atmosphere is enchanting—mist from the falls dances in the sunlight, birds sing from the treetops, and the air is thick with the sweet, earthy scent of the rainforest.
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What is the Rio Celeste Hike?
The RIo Celeste hike is a trekking experience within the Tenorio Volcano National Park, following a trail surrounded by lush nature along the Buena Vista River, popularly known as RIo Celeste. Dive into this guide, and we’ll reveal everything you need to know to make the most of this incredible adventure.
How to Get to Rio Celeste Waterfall
The Rio Celeste Waterfall is located within Tenorio Volcano National Park. It is one of five stops along the protected area’s trail where you can enjoy hiking.
The easiest way to get there is by car. A 4×4 vehicle is not required, and with Google Maps or Waze, you can easily reach the destination. Fortunately, this must-visit tourist spot is strategically located near some of Costa Rica’s most popular attractions, including Monteverde, La Fortuna, and the beaches of Guanacaste.
Here are the exact coordinates for Tenorio Volcano National Park:
Ultimate Guide to Hiking Rio Celeste Falls
The hike to Río Celeste Waterfall is less than 3 kilometers (about 1.8 miles) one way, making it a round trip of approximately 6 kilometers (3.7 miles). The trail is an out-and-back route, meaning you’ll follow the same path to the waterfall and return the way you came. The first major stop is the waterfall itself, which is about 1,200 meters (0.75 miles) into the hike.
To get the best view of the waterfall, you’ll need to descend around 350 steps. We recommend wearing comfortable, sporty clothing and sturdy shoes for the walk. The weather and trail conditions can vary depending on the season, so pack light and bring only the essentials. Don’t forget to stay hydrated, but please avoid single-use plastic bottles to help protect this beautiful environment.
Many local guides suggest visiting the other points of interest in the park first and saving the waterfall for the return trip. To help you plan your adventure, here’s a map of the trail for reference.
Guided Tours to Hike Tenorio Volcano
One of the wonders that truly complements the magic of Río Celeste is its people. Most of the available guides are locals—many of whom grew up or were even born in the area. They know every corner of the park like the back of their hand, which is why many visitors prefer guided hikes. With a local guide, you’ll gain firsthand, educational, and accurate insights about the river’s enchanting beauty, shared by those who have witnessed its magic their entire lives.
If you don’t want to miss a single detail, we highly recommend the following products developed by locals:
If you decide to explore the trail on your own, keep in mind that you’ll need to purchase your tickets in advance. These can be found on the official website of SINAC (National System of Conservation Areas). You’ll need to create an account, and once you do, you can use it to buy tickets not only for Río Celeste but also for other national parks across Costa Rica.
Rio Celeste Entrance Fee
For international visitors, the entrance fee is $12 plus taxes. For Costa Rican nationals and residents, the entrance fee is 800 colones plus taxes.
Hiking Difficulty and Trail Conditions
As mentioned, the Río Celeste trail extends approximately 2.7 km (1.7 miles) one way, featuring uneven, rocky terrain with significant inclines. While some of the steeper sections have stairways to improve accessibility, the hike still requires a moderate level of physical fitness.
The path winds through dense rainforest, occasionally becoming muddy, especially after rainfall. Proper hiking shoes with good traction are highly recommended. Although the journey presents some challenges, the breathtaking scenery and the reward of reaching the stunning Río Celeste Waterfall make every step worthwhile.