Río Celeste: Nature Hike, Blue River Swim & Farm Lunch

Summary

Walk rainforest trails see blue rivers swim eat local lunch

You’ll hike lush trails to see Río Celeste’s unreal blue waters, stand at Los Teñideros where colors change before your eyes, then cool off with a swim at a local farm. Lunch is fresh and simple — Costa Rican comfort food shared outdoors. Expect surprises: mist on your face at the waterfall or laughter echoing over turquoise water.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t really believe the stories about Río Celeste’s color until we stood there — that wild blue just sort of glows under the trees. Our guide, Carlos, grinned when he saw our faces at Los Teñideros, where the two rivers meet and suddenly turn that shade. He explained the science but honestly I was too busy watching sunlight flicker through mist above the water. It smelled like wet earth and something sweet I couldn’t name.

The hike through Tenorio’s rainforest was muddy in spots (my shoes are still recovering), but we stopped often — birds overhead, a flash of something green darting past. At the waterfall, you could barely hear anything over the roar. I tried to take a photo but my lens fogged up from all the spray. Afterward we drove out to Don Alexis’ farm for swimming; stepping into that cool blue river felt like shock therapy for my tired legs. There were hammocks strung between trees and some folks just napped while others swam or laughed at how cold it was.

Lunch was simple — rice, beans, chicken — but somehow it tasted better after all that walking and swimming. Carlos told us about his childhood here; he pointed out a tree older than anyone in his family (we took awkward group photos with it). The whole day felt both relaxed and full, if that makes sense. I still think about how quiet it got by the river after lunch — just wind in the leaves and someone humming softly nearby.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Hike and swim at Rio Celeste

• Visit Tenorio Volcano National Park
• See Rio Celeste Waterfall
• Explore Los Teñideros and Los Borbollones
• Enjoy tropical rainforest views
• Stop at ancient tree for photo
• Arrive at Don Alexis Farm
• Swim in turquoise river
• Relax on hammock
• Have delicious Costa Rican lunch

Top questions

How long is the Río Celeste hike?

The main hike inside Tenorio’s rainforest typically takes several hours with stops at key spots like Los Teñideros and the waterfall.

Is swimming allowed in Río Celeste?

You can swim at Don Alexis’ farm on the river after visiting the national park section.

Are hotel pickups included for this tour?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included in your booking.

Is lunch provided during this day trip?

Yes, a traditional Costa Rican lunch is included at Don Alexis’ farm after hiking.

What should I wear for hiking Río Celeste?

Wear comfortable clothes you don’t mind getting muddy and sturdy shoes suitable for rainforest trails.

Can children join this Río Celeste tour?

Children can join if accompanied by an adult; child rates apply when sharing with 2 paying adults.

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The hike is suitable for most fitness levels but not recommended for pregnant travelers or those with poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off by air-conditioned minivan, all entry fees to Tenorio’s rainforest trails and Río Celeste waterfall, bottled water and snacks along the way, plus a hearty Costa Rican lunch served right by the river before heading back in the afternoon.