About this experience
This river is famed for its shockingly bright blue color, a natural wonder caused by the reaction of volcanic sulfur and calcium carbonate. The result is a stunning powder-blue shade that will leave you in awe.
A hike through the lush rainforest will lead you to a number of incredible sights along the Rio Celeste. Be sure to capture the beauty of the Rio Celeste Waterfall, where the river dramatically cascades into a vibrant blue lagoon. Witness the Tenideros, the confluence of two rivers that merge to create the Celeste, and experience the magic of Poza Azul, the most renowned "dye pool" where the color reaction is at its most intense.
For the best views of the river’s startling color change, we recommend visiting during the dry season, from December to April. During this time, the reactive chemicals create the most vibrant blue, as excess rainfall can dilute the color, sometimes leaving the waters with a less appealing muddy hue.
At a glance
- Duration: 8 hr–9 hr
- Private experience
Plan your experience
Set aside 8 hr–9 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Local guides to help you plan
La Fortuna Waterfall, at your own pace
A considered waterfall day begins with the descent, the return and the people who care for the place.
What is included
- Transport
- Water
- All Fees and Taxes
- Naturalist Guide
Itinerary and highlights
• The dazzling centrepiece of the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste is most famous for its shockingly bright blue color, the result of a natural reaction of volcanic sulfur and calcium carbonate, which turns the clear waters a powder-blue shade. Reached by hiking through the surrounding rainforest, there are a number of sights of interest located along the Rio Celeste, most notably the Rio Celeste Waterfall, a favorite photo spot where the river tumbles into a striking blue lagoon; the Tenideros, where two rivers merge in the Celeste; and the Poza Azul, the most renowned "dye pool," where the reaction is most noticeable.
The river’s startling color change is best viewed during the dry season (December to April), as excess rainfall can dilute the reactive chemicals leaving the waters with a less-appealing muddy hue.
Best tour
We do daily tours from Tamarindo
Languages and tickets
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Arenal Expeditions-Tours and Transfers
Accessibility and practical details
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
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