Rio Celeste: Horseback Ride, Tarzan Swing & River Swim

Summary

Horseback adventure to Rio Celeste’s hidden swimming spot

You’ll ride horseback with a local guide through farmland and forest near El Pilón, cross a hanging bridge, try the Tarzan swing (if you dare), and swim in a private Rio Celeste pool where crowds can’t reach you. Expect real conversation, fresh air, and small surprises along the way—it’s more personal than any big group tour.

What’s the experience like?

We met Don Luis right in El Pilón—he was already waiting by the horses, boots muddy and grinning. He handed me the reins with a little nod, like he’d done this a thousand times. I tried to say “buenos días” but probably sounded nervous. The horses smelled like sun-warmed leather and grass. As we set off, you could see Arenal Volcano in the distance, half-shrouded by clouds that never seem to leave. Luis pointed out Caño Negro too—said if you come early enough you’ll hear monkeys howling from there.

The trail wound through farmland at first, cows watching us like they owned the place. Then it got dense and green; I kept brushing leaves off my jeans. There was this old hanging bridge where everything went quiet except for birds somewhere overhead—Luis laughed when I hesitated (he just walked across like it was nothing). After that came the Tarzan swing over a little ravine—I didn’t think I’d do it but somehow did, hands shaking after. It wasn’t graceful but it felt good to just let go for a second.

When we finally reached Rio Celeste, the water really was that blue—almost milky turquoise, not what I expected at all. No crowds or fences here, just a natural pool tucked away under trees. Luis said swimming’s not allowed inside Tenorio park anymore but here it’s fine (his family owns this land). The river was cold and soft on my skin; I still think about that shock of coolness after all the dust from riding. We stayed longer than planned because nobody rushed us—just floated and listened to cicadas buzzing somewhere close by.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Horseback ride to Celeste River pool

• Start tour in El Pilon town
• View Arenal Volcano and Caño Negro
• Ride horse through farmland and forest
• Stop at Tarzan swing and hanging bridge
• Swim in natural Celeste River pool

Top questions

Can you swim in Rio Celeste on this tour?

Yes, you can swim in a natural pool of Rio Celeste outside the national park boundaries during this tour.

Where does the horseback riding tour start?

The horseback ride begins in El Pilón, a local town near Arenal Volcano.

Is there a guide on the Rio Celeste horseback tour?

Yes, tours are guided by a local professional who also owns the land where you swim.

Are there any adventure activities included?

Yes—the tour includes crossing a hanging bridge and trying out a Tarzan swing over a ravine.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all physical fitness levels according to the operator.

Are service animals allowed on this horseback riding tour?

Service animals are allowed on this tour.

Is public transportation available nearby?

Yes, there are public transportation options close to El Pilón.

What’s included

Your day includes guided horseback riding from El Pilón with panoramic volcano views, time at both the Tarzan swing and hanging bridge along forest trails, plus exclusive access to swim in Rio Celeste’s private natural pool—all led by your local guide before heading back whenever you’re ready.