Tenorio Volcano: Rio Celeste hike from La Fortuna + lunch

Summary

Follow the blue river trail in Costa Rica’s wild rainforest

You’ll walk through deep rainforest trails in Tenorio Volcano National Park with a local guide from La Fortuna, watching Río Celeste shift from clear to bright blue before reaching its famous waterfall. See where two rivers merge at Los Teñideros and enjoy a Costa Rican lunch after your hike — moments you’ll remember long after you leave.

What’s the experience like?

The first thing I noticed was the color — that impossible blue of Río Celeste, almost like someone dropped paint into the water. Our guide, Diego, grinned when he saw my face and said it gets everyone. We’d left La Fortuna early (I barely finished my coffee), bumping along back roads until the rainforest closed in on both sides. The air felt thick and sweet, like wet leaves and earth after rain, even though it hadn’t rained yet. I kept hearing birds I couldn’t see.

The hike itself isn’t too tough, but you do feel it — roots underfoot, a bit of mud here and there. Diego stopped every so often to point out something: a tiny frog on a leaf, or some plant whose name I forgot right away (sorry Diego). There was this moment at Los Teñideros where two rivers meet and suddenly the water just turns turquoise — I mean right in front of you. It’s kind of wild to watch. He explained why it happens but honestly I was too busy staring to remember the science part.

When we finally reached the waterfall, everyone went quiet for a second. The sound is huge — not just loud but echoing all around you. Mist on your skin, cool even though it was warm out. I tried taking photos but none of them really caught it. After heading back (legs a bit tired), we had lunch at this small place nearby — rice, beans, chicken, nothing fancy but somehow perfect after walking all morning. I still think about that view sometimes when things get noisy back home.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike

• Hotel pickup in La Fortuna
• Drive to Tenorio Volcano National Park
• Hike to Rio Celeste Waterfall
• Explore rainforest trail
• Return to starting point
• Enjoy packed lunch

Top questions

How long does the Rio Celeste hike take from La Fortuna?

The drive is about 1.5 hours each way from La Fortuna; the main hike takes around 1 hour to reach the waterfall.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

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

What should I bring for the Rio Celeste hike?

You should bring comfortable walking shoes, change of clothes, sunglasses, insect repellent, and water.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

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

Is this tour suitable for all fitness levels?

The tour requires moderate walking but is suitable for most fitness levels; not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

Are there restrooms or changing facilities at Tenorio Volcano National Park?

Yes, there are restrooms and changing facilities at the park entrance.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from La Fortuna or your rental home, guided hiking through Tenorio Volcano National Park with a local expert who shares stories along the way, entry fees covered, plus a traditional Costa Rican lunch before heading back in comfort.