Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike from Arenal

Summary

Spend a delightful day exploring the natural wonders of Tenorio Volcano National Park. Your tour begins with morning pickup at your La Fortuna hotel, and then a drive that takes you through the scenic hillsides of Arenal Volcano National Park. Stock up on snacking provisions at a local store if you like (own expense) before entering the majestic beauty of Tenorio Volcano National Park.  Embark on a moderately challenging roughly 2-hour hike through the lush rainforest of the park. The terrain is steep and rocky at parts, so feel free to hike at a pace that works for you. Your guide will point out highlights of the landscape, including interesting plants and the many types of wildlife that call this area home. Keep an eye out for blue morpho butterflies, tropical birds, tapirs, ocelots, sloths and spider monkeys.  When you arrive at the Rio Celeste waterfall, you’ll immediately see how this cascade got its name, which means ‘sky-blue river.’ Admire the crashing waters that empty into a lagoon, which takes on a brilliant blue hue courtesy of natural mineral deposits in the river. Relax along this picturesque scene as your guide shares local myths about how the river got its eye-catching color. Continue on your hike to the Los Teñideros, which features the convergence of two rivers in the jungle. Behold the clear waters turning bright blue when they merge as if by magic — a natural spectacle caused by a chemical reaction of volcanic minerals in the water.  At the end of your hike, rest and refuel with delicious regional cuisine at a local restaurant before the return drive to your La Fortuna hotel.

Tour info

Duration
6 hours
Group Size
Pricing (From)
Commentary
Meeting Point
Dropoff location

Why take this tour?

Discover the celestial blue waters of Tenorio Volcano National Park on this day trip from La Fortuna. Trek through a jungle, learn from an expert guide about the rainforest’s plant and animal life, and come upon Río Celeste waterfall and its glowing azure lagoon. Find more magic at Los Teñideros, where two rivers merge — and watch the water turn turquoise before your very eyes. Uncover the secret behind this transformation and after the hike, tuck into a delicious lunch at a local restaurant. Air-conditioned hotel transport is included.

What’s included?

  • Hotel pickup and drop-off

  • Lunch

  • Local guide

  • Gratuities

Things to know

Before you book

  • Duration: 6h

  • Mobile tickets accepted

  • Instant confirmation

Covid Policy

  • Regular temperature checks for staff
  • Regularly sanitized high-traffic areas

Ask about our "Pure Private - Pura Vida" upgrades to make your tour completely PRIVATE. We also have locally-handmade, 3-ply fabric masks and plastic masks for sale. Let us know if there is anything we can assist with for making your travels as safe & comfortable as possible.

Cancellation Policy

    For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

Operated by:

Desafio Adventure Company

About operator:

Desafio Adventure Company is the pioneering outfitter in Costa Rica's Epicenter of Adventure near the Arenal Volcano founded in 1992. Desafio offers high-quality rafting, canyoning, biking, hiking, birdwatching, kayaking, stand up paddling, cooking classes, unique cultural experiences, transfer with tour services, incentive programs, volunteer opportunities and much more! We only have two rules: 1) Be Safe! and 2) Have Serious Fun! Look for Desafio in Downtown La Fortuna near the Arenal Volcano, next to the El Salto waterfall or take the Desafio Adventure Connections to the Monteverde, Guanacaste, San Jose, Manuel Antonio and Playa Samara. Desafio is family-owned and operated and your "one-stop-shop" for adventure travel in Costa Rica and beyond!

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