La Fortuna: Rio Celeste Day Hike & Waterfall Swim with Lunch

Summary

Rio Celeste’s blue river hike, waterfall views and local flavors

You’ll hike through lush Tenorio forest with a local guide from La Fortuna, watch the river shift colors right in front of you, stand beside Rio Celeste’s roaring waterfall, share laughs over lunch at a local restaurant, and maybe even jump into those bright blue waters before heading home—muddy boots and all.

What’s the experience like?

We tumbled out of the van just outside La Fortuna, still rubbing sleep from our eyes, and there was our guide—José—already grinning like he knew what we were in for. He handed me a walking stick (which I thought was overkill at first… it wasn’t). The air smelled sharp and green, almost electric after last night’s rain. I could hear birds I couldn’t name and something that sounded suspiciously like monkeys arguing overhead. We set off into Tenorio’s forest, boots squelching a bit in the mud.

The Rio Celeste day trip is not exactly a stroll—about four hours of up and down, roots grabbing at your ankles. José kept us moving but stopped to show us tiny orchids clinging to tree trunks and pointed out where the river started turning blue. He tried explaining the volcanic minerals thing (I nodded along but honestly just stared at that unreal color). The waterfall itself—well, it’s loud enough you feel it in your ribs before you see it. I tried to take a photo but ended up just standing there with my mouth open. Some moments aren’t for Instagram, you know?

I didn’t expect lunch to be such a highlight, but maybe I was just starving by then—a plate of casado at this little spot near the park entrance, rice still steaming and plantains sweet as candy. Someone asked if we could swim in the river; José said yes, but only downstream where it’s safe. So we did—a quick dip that left my skin tingling cold and smelling faintly of minerals for hours after. The ride back to La Fortuna was quiet except for soft snoring (guilty). I still think about that impossible blue water sometimes when I’m stuck in city traffic.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and explore Rio Celeste

• Travel to Tenorio Volcano National Park
• Hike for about 4 hours
• See Rio Celeste blue river
• Visit waterfall and lookout point
• Observe river color change
• Enjoy lunch
• Take a quick dip in river
• Return to La Fortuna

Top questions

How long is the Rio Celeste day trip from La Fortuna?

The full tour takes most of the day including transfers; the main hike is about 4 hours.

Is lunch included on this Rio Celeste tour?

Yes, lunch at a local restaurant is included after the hike.

Can you swim in Rio Celeste during this tour?

You can take a quick dip in designated areas after hiking.

How tough is the Rio Celeste hike?

It’s medium-tough with some muddy or steep sections; moderate fitness is needed.

Are hotel pickups available from La Fortuna?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off in La Fortuna are included.

Is this tour suitable for children?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; moderate fitness is required.

What should I bring for this day trip to Rio Celeste?

Wear sturdy shoes and bring water; expect muddy trails especially after rain.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from anywhere in La Fortuna, a guided four-hour hike through Tenorio’s rainforest trails to see Rio Celeste’s color-changing waters and waterfall, a hearty lunch at a local restaurant (vegetarian options available), plus time for a quick swim before heading back to town.