Rio Celeste: Costa Rica's Celestial River
Discover the celestial beauty of Rio Celeste, where turquoise waters and lush rainforests create an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.
Rio Celeste, located within Tenorio Volcano National Park in Costa Rica's Alajuela Province, is renowned for its vibrant turquoise blue waters. The unique coloration is a result of a natural chemical reaction between volcanic minerals. Visitors can hike through the lush rainforest to witness the stunning Rio Celeste Waterfall and the convergence of two rivers at Los Teñideros, where the distinctive blue hue originates.
A brief summary to Rio Celeste y Los Teñideros
- P287+739, Cantón de, Alajuela Province, CR
- +50626955180
- Monday 8 am-2 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-2 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-2 pm
- Thursday 8 am-2 pm
- Friday 8 am-2 pm
- Saturday 8 am-2 pm
- Sunday 8 am-2 pm
Local tips
- Arrive early to avoid crowds and make the most of your visit, as the park opens at 8:00 AM and limits entry.
- Purchase park tickets online in advance through the SINAC website to guarantee entry.
- Wear sturdy hiking boots, as the trails can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season.
- Bring a reusable water bottle, as single-use plastics are not allowed in the park.
- Consider visiting during the dry season (December-April) for the best chance to see the vibrant blue color of the river.
Getting There
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Driving
From La Fortuna, drive approximately 1.5 hours (68.4 km) to Rio Celeste. Head east on Route 142, then continue onto Route 4. Turn left onto C. La Paz in San Rafael de Guatuso and follow the road to the entrance of Tenorio Volcano National Park. Parking costs 2,000 colones. Be aware that roads can be narrow and winding
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Public Transport
From La Fortuna, take the 6:45-7:00 AM bus to Upala, which takes about two hours and costs approximately $5. From the Upala bus stop, take a taxi to Rio Celeste, which can cost between $30 and $75 depending on the destination, whether it's the National Park or a nearby lodging. The taxi trip can take 15 to 30 minutes. Note: This option may not be feasible for a day trip.
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Shuttle
A roundtrip shuttle from La Fortuna to Rio Celeste is a convenient option for a day trip. Shuttles pick up from accommodations in La Fortuna around 7:00 AM and provide approximately 4 hours at the park. The shuttle ride is about 1.5 hours each way. Prices range from $64 for children to $75 for adults. This option offers a balance of convenience, time savings, and cost.
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