Rio Celeste
"...after painting the sky God washed his brushes in this river"
The Celeste River, located in Tenorio Volcano National Park in Costa Rica, is famous for its turquoise waters and natural beauty, which seems straight out of a fairy tale. This unique phenomenon results from a mineral combination occurring at “Los Teñideros” — the point where two rivers merge, giving the water its intense sky-blue hue. This effect happens due to a physical phenomenon where increased water acidity enlarges aluminosilicate particles, which then reflect only the blue tone of sunlight.
The main park trail includes several highlights, with the Río Celeste waterfall as the standout. This waterfall flows into a natural pool surrounded by lush tropical rainforest, where swimming is prohibited to protect the ecosystem. Along the walk, visitors also see other fascinating spots, such as the Blue Lagoon, a pool of turquoise water, and “Borbollones,” sections where volcanic activity causes bubbling waters.
The park’s biodiversity adds to its allure. Visitors can observe tropical flora like orchids and giant ferns, as well as local fauna including monkeys, sloths, toucans, and poison dart frogs. Guides often offer personalized tours, maximizing opportunities to spot these species and learn about the area’s rich ecology.
The best time to visit the Celeste River is during the dry season, from December to April, when the climate is more stable and the water’s color is at its most vibrant. However, it’s also enjoyable in the rainy season, although sediment can sometimes dull the intense coloration. Outside the park, a popular free-access area allows locals and tourists to swim in the river’s blue waters, providing a refreshing experience after a hot hike. For a more immersive adventure, try the Tubing Tour, where you’ll navigate Rio Celeste’s Class II rapids for a couple of hours.
For those looking to explore further, the park is relatively close to other notable Costa Rican destinations, like Arenal Volcano and Bijagua — a small town where you can take night walks and spot tapirs and other nocturnal animals. This makes Río Celeste an ideal stop in any Costa Rican ecotourism itinerary.
