Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park
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September 2026
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Who is going?
Adults
Age 13 and over
Children
Age 12 and under
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Free cancellation up to 24 hours before. Same price on Viator, Outty earns a commission.
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 21 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park worth booking?
Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park is a 3-hour experience in Alajuela, Costa Rica, from $60 per person. It scores 72 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 21 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 72 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (21)
- Duration
- 3 hours
- From
- $60 per person
Join a professionally guided hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park and discover one of Costa Rica's most extraordinary natural wonders. Visit the iconic Río Celeste Waterfall, the serene Blue Lagoon, and Los Teñider
What you get
- Use of Optical Equipment
- Snacks
- Entrance fees
- Professional Guided Service
About this experience
Join a professionally guided hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park and discover one of Costa Rica's most extraordinary natural wonders. Visit the iconic Río Celeste Waterfall, the serene Blue Lagoon, and Los Teñideros, where a fascinating natural phenomenon creates the river's vibrant turquoise color. Along the trail, keep an eye out for wildlife while your expert local guide shares insights into the rainforest, volcanic geology, and the unique ecosystem that makes this national park truly unforgettable. Highlights • Explore Tenorio Volcano National Park with a certified local naturalist guide • Visit the iconic Río Celeste Waterfall, Blue Lagoon, and Los Teñideros • Learn the science behind Río Celeste's vibrant turquoise color • Spot wildlife in a protected tropical rainforest • Enjoy a personalized small-group experience
What's included
Included
- Use of Optical Equipment
- Snacks
- Entrance fees
- Professional Guided Service
Not included
- Parking fee is not included
What you'll see and do
Tenorio Volcano National Park
1. Rainforest Trails – Your guide will lead you through lush primary and secondary rainforest, explaining the diverse plants, trees, and wildlife you encounter along the way. 2. Río Celeste Waterfall – Admire the iconic turquoise waterfall formed by volcanic minerals, a breathtaking sight surrounded by rainforest. 3. Scenic Viewpoint – Stop at the main viewpoint to enjoy panoramic views of the Volcano, river, and waterfall. 4. Blue Lagoon – Walk along the river to see the serene, vivid blue waters, perfect for photos and observing aquatic life. 5. Borbollones (Boiling Springs) – Witness the natural bubbling water caused by volcanic activity, a fascinating geologic feature. 6. Los Teñideros – Visit the spot where two clear rivers merge to form the unique turquoise color of Río Celeste.
180 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Alajuela
The tour Guide will be waiting for you at the antrance of the National Park
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
At entrance of Tenorio Volcano National Park
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 10 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Rio Celeste Wildlife Tours
Know before you go
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 21 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
8 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
8 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Physical effort
7 mentionsExpect real walking or climbing: reviewers mention the effort involved.
Food and drink
4 mentionsThe tastings and food stops are a highlight for most reviewers.
Good for families
3 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Photo opportunities
2 mentionsThe views and photo stops come up again and again.
Traveler reviews
21 verified traveler reviews for Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Experience of a life time!
Jostin was the best tour guide. He was very knowledgeable on all things plants, bugs, local features and animals. He made us feel very comfortable and taught us so much about Costa Rica. He even arranged an authentic lunch to be ready for us afterwards.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a pleasure having you on the tour and sharing the amazing nature and wildlife of Bijagua with you. I’m very happy to hear that you enjoyed learning about the plants, insects, animals, and local culture. I’m also glad you enjoyed the authentic Costa Rican lunch! It was a pleasure meeting you, and I hope you have an amazing rest of your trip. Thank you for choosing Río Celeste Wildlife Tours!
via Tripadvisor
Waterfall hike/ chocolate coffee tour
My family and I went on the Rio Celeste hike and the chocolate/coffee tour. Jostin was our guide, he was absolutely amazing! So nice and very knowledgeable. When our 22 month old got a little fussy he was very patient and even helped to calm her down and entertain her. He pointed out a viper, sloth, and large spider we would have other wise missed. After the waterfall he took us over to a local spot for lunch which was the best meal we have had here so far. If you’re looking for a local guide I would absolutely book with him! Thank you so much Jostin! Pura vida!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the wonderful review! It was an absolute pleasure guiding your family on the Río Celeste hike and coffee & chocolate tour. I'm so glad we spotted the wildlife, enjoyed a great local lunch, and kept your little one entertained! Hope to welcome you all back to Costa Rica again soon. Pura Vida!
via Tripadvisor
Highly recommend!!
What an amazing experience! Jostin was very insighful, taught us so much about Costa Rica’s wildlife. Such a fun family adventure, seeing multiple animals and enjoying a rainy hike to the waterfall. Would highly recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the kind words! It was a pleasure sharing Costa Rica’s wildlife with your family. Even with the rain, it turned into a fun adventure, and I’m glad you enjoyed the hike and waterfall. Hope to see you again! 🇨🇷🦥
via Tripadvisor
Fantastic tour with Jostin: knowledgeable, friendly, lots of wildlife!
We had an incredible tour of Río Celeste with Jostin as our guide. He was exceptionally knowledgeable, sharing fascinating facts about the wildlife, plants, waterfall, river, and volcano, as well as the local legends behind them. Thanks to his sharp eye, we spotted several snakes, tarantulas, a sloth, and the absolute highlight—a huge mama tapir with her beautiful striped baby, which he said is a very rare sighting! Jostin was friendly, engaging, and clearly passionate about the area. We learned so much and couldn't have asked for a better guide. Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for the amazing review! It was a pleasure having you on the tour. I’m really happy we got to see so much wildlife, especially the tapir mother and her baby — that was definitely a special moment! I really enjoyed sharing Río Celeste with you, and I’m glad you had a great experience. Hope to see you again someday!
via Tripadvisor
Great hiking tour in the Tenorio
Excellent experience in the tenorio park with this company. Our guide Damaris was lovely and so patient with our kids. She was knowledgeable and made sure we had a great time.
Response from the operator: hank you so much for your review! We’re really happy you enjoyed the experience at Tenorio Volcano National Park. Damaris will be very glad to hear your kind words. She always does her best to make the tour enjoyable and informative for everyone, especially families with kids. Thanks again for choosing Río Celeste Wildlife Tours and we hope to see you again someday!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 3 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- 3+
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $60 to $80
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 7
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Why this scores 72
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Alajuela.
How much does Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park cost?
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Prices start at $60 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in Alajuela usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park take?
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Plan for about 3 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in Alajuela is not rushed.
Is Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 72 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 21 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in Alajuela, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park suitable for kids and families?
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The operator sets a minimum age of 3. Older children generally do well here, and families should factor in the 3-hour running time when deciding.
How far in advance should I book Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park?
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Around 7 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in Alajuela can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in Alajuela and add a light layer if any part of the 3-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Hike to Río Celeste Waterfall in Tenorio Volcano National Park start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central Alajuela within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in Alajuela?
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On Outty we rank every Alajuela experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Arenal Volcano Full-Day Combo Tour with Lunch and Dinner, Arenal Volcano Experience Full-Day Tour from San Jose, Manuel Antonio National Park Sightseeing and Wildlife Day Tour from San Jose. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit Alajuela?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in Alajuela?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
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