- Return hike
- ~7 km
- Round trip
- ~3 h
- In the park
- No swimming
- From Arenal or Liberia
- ~1.5 h
Why is Río Celeste blue?
The colour appears at Los Teñidores, where two clear rivers meet. One carries volcanic minerals (aluminosilicates), and when they mix with the other river's more acidic water the particles grow larger and scatter sunlight, turning the water a milky sky-blue. After heavy rain the river can turn brown, so the colour is most reliable in the dry season and on dry days.
Hiking the Río Celeste trail
The trail from the ranger station is about 3.5 km each way, often very muddy. The first highlight is the waterfall, down a long staircase, followed by a viewpoint, the Laguna Azul, the bubbling Borbollones and finally Los Teñidores. Rubber boots can be rented in Bijagua or at the entrance. Swimming is not allowed anywhere in the park.
- Tickets are sold online through SINAC; the park usually admits visitors until early afternoon.
- Allow 3 to 4 hours for the hike.
- There are a few private swimming spots on the river outside the park.
Day tours from La Fortuna include transport, a guide, park entry and lunch.
Book a Río Celeste tour ↗Getting there
The park is about 1.5 hours from La Fortuna and from Liberia. The road is paved all the way to the entrance. Stay in Bijagua to hike early, before the crowds.
Rainforest lodges in Bijagua, many with sloth and frog night walks.
Lodges near Río Celeste ↗Plan your trip to Río Celeste
Tours & tickets
Guided tours, day trips and activities with free cancellation on most bookings.
See tours ↗Some links on this page are affiliate links. If you book through them we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn more.
Frequently asked questions
Can you swim in Río Celeste?
Not inside Tenorio Volcano National Park. Some private properties outside the park offer swimming spots on the river.
How long is the Río Celeste hike?
About 7 km return, typically 3 to 4 hours including the waterfall and Los Teñidores.
Can you visit Río Celeste as a day trip from La Fortuna?
Yes. It is about 1.5 hours each way by car, and many tours run from La Fortuna.
Last reviewed October 2026. Opening hours, prices and road conditions change: check official sources before you travel.