Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour
Traveler rating
4.6/5
Based on 1,184 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour worth booking?
Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour is a 12-hour experience in Alajuela, Costa Rica, from $135 per person. It scores 83 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Exceptional”, based on a 4.6/5 rating across 1,184 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 83 / 100
- Rating
- 4.6/5 (1,184)
- Duration
- 12 hours
- From
- $135 per person
Llanos de Cortes Waterfall To start your day, we will take you to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, where you can relax and take a swim at the falls or walk around exploring the flora and fauna. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike - Tenorio Volcano National Park Upon arriving at the entrance, you will go on a 2 hour moderately difficult hike in the park. You will walk through the rainforest and along the Celeste River where you can observe one of nature's most intriguing phenomenon. Organic Farm - Sloth and Frog Sanctuary After lunch, take a tour on a rural organic farm! You will be taken on an inspiring and educational walk, showcasing natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and many more animals that inhabit the farm.
What you get
About this experience
Llanos de Cortes Waterfall To start your day, we will take you to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, where you can relax and take a swim at the falls or walk around exploring the flora and fauna. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike - Tenorio Volcano National Park Upon arriving at the entrance, you will go on a 2 hour moderately difficult hike in the park. You will walk through the rainforest and along the Celeste River where you can observe one of nature's most intriguing phenomenon. Organic Farm - Sloth and Frog Sanctuary After lunch, take a tour on a rural organic farm! You will be taken on an inspiring and educational walk, showcasing natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and many more animals that inhabit the farm.
What's included
Included
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Driver/guide
- Lunch
- National park fees
- Professional bilingual guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Round Trip Transport from Andaz, Planet Hollywood, Fours Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Catalinas
- JW Marriott/Pinilla Pick Up Fee
What you'll see and do
Cataratas Llanos de Cortes
LLanos de Cortes Waterfall Discover the hidden gem of Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, tucked away amidst the pristine landscapes of the Guanacaste region. As you make your way through the tropical forest, the sound of cascading water grows louder, signaling your arrival at this natural marvel. The sight of the waterfall is nothing short of breathtaking, with its crystal-clear waters tumbling over moss-covered rocks into a tranquil pool below. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, surrounded by lush greenery and the symphony of nature. Relax on the sandy shores, bask in the warm sun, and revel in the serenity of this secluded paradise. It's the perfect conclusion to a day filled with adventure and exploration.
60 minutes here · Admission included
Rio Celeste
You will begin your hike within the pristine confines of Tenorio Volcano National Park, first heading to the mesmerizing Rio Celeste Waterfall, where the crystalline waters cascade gracefully down a rugged cliff face, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. You'll embark on a guided hike on trails that meander through the dense rainforest, enveloped by a symphony of exotic bird calls. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the rich biodiversity of the region, pointing out unique plant species & wildlife that call this pristine wilderness home. As you approach the waterfall, you'll be stunned by the majestic cascade of turquoise-hued water tumbling dramatically into a tranquil pool below. Stand in awe of this natural spectacle, feeling the cool mist and the sheer power of nature. Take your time to savor this moment, capturing photographs of this unique hidden gem from various angles. **Please be aware, on rare occasions the river may be brown due to heavy rains
120 minutes here · Admission included
Jungle Life Sloth Sanctuary After immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Rio Celeste, our journey continues to the Jungle Life Sloth Sanctuary, where you'll have the rare opportunity to encounter these endearing creatures up close. Nestled within the verdant rainforest, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for sloths rescued from various situations. Learn about their behaviors, habits, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them as you observe these fascinating animals in their natural habitat. Your guide will also showcase natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and more!
60 minutes here · Admission included
Bijagua de Upala
Costa Rican Lunch Indulge in a hearty Costa Rican meal at a local restaurant, where you'll savor traditional dishes bursting with flavor. Enjoy staples like gallo pinto (rice and beans), plantains, savory meats, and fresh tropical fruits, providing a delicious taste of Costa Rica's culinary delights.
60 minutes here
Tamarindo Beach
6:30 am
Pass by without stopping
Native's Way
Hotel Pick up After pick up from your hotel, house or condo (see pick up areas), you will stop for coffee and/or breakfast, you will be driven 3 hours to Tenorio Volcano National Park.
Pass by without stopping
Playa Langosta
6:20 am
Pass by without stopping
Playa Conchal
6:40 am
Pass by without stopping
Playa Matapalo
RIU Guancaste/Palace 6:45 am
Pass by without stopping
Tamarindo
6:30 am
Pass by without stopping
Playas del Coco
7:20 am
Pass by without stopping
Playa Panama
7:40 am
Pass by without stopping
Playa Flamingo
6:30 am
Pass by without stopping
Playa Hermosa
7:40 am
Pass by without stopping
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
Alajuela
7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Meeting point
Alajuela
Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:30 am.
Meeting point
Alajuela
Meeting point
Alajuela
Tamarindo Hotels/Houses & Condos - 6:30 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
Meeting point
Alajuela
Meeting point
Alajuela
Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:15 am.
Meeting point
Alajuela
Hilton Garden Inn, Liberia - 8:30 AM Liberia Peri Supermarket - 8:40 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood - 7:00 am ($70 transport fee per booking, not per person) - billed separately
Meeting point
Alajuela
Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 7:30 am
Meeting point
Alajuela
Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gateand other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 7:30 am
Meeting point
Alajuela
7:20 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
MAIN SECURITY GATE 6:45 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
6:30 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
6:15 AM - ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Meeting point
Alajuela
6:30 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
6:45 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
6:30 AM
Meeting point
Alajuela
Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM ($50 extra fee per booking, not person - paid separately) Please let security know we are coming
Hotel pickup
Pickup is available for selected locations.
Ends at
7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Ends at
Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:30 am.
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Tamarindo Hotels/Houses & Condos - 6:30 AM
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Returns to the starting point
Ends at
Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:15 am.
Ends at
Hilton Garden Inn, Liberia - 8:30 AM Liberia Peri Supermarket - 8:40 AM
Ends at
Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood - 7:00 am ($70 transport fee per booking, not per person) - billed separately
Ends at
Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 7:30 am
Ends at
Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gateand other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 7:30 am
Ends at
7:20 AM
Ends at
MAIN SECURITY GATE 6:45 AM
Ends at
6:30 AM
Ends at
6:15 AM - ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)
Ends at
6:30 AM
Ends at
6:45 AM
Ends at
6:30 AM
Ends at
Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM ($50 extra fee per booking, not person - paid separately) Please let security know we are coming
Options you can book
Shared Transportation
Shared Tour & Transport: Round trip transport from JW Marriott, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia Pickup included
Self Drive/Meet at Park
Drive your Own Vehicle : Meet your guide at Catarata Llanos del Cortés & follow our tour bus to Sloth Sanctuary and Tenorio National Park Starting points: Catarata Llanos del Cortés, Guanacaste Province, Bagaces, Costa Rica Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio, Katira centro, Provincia de Alajuela, Guatuso, 21504, Costa Rica
Private Transportation & Guide
Private Guide & Transportation: Round trip transport from JW Marriott, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia Pickup included
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 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Native's Way Costa Rica
Know before you go
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
- If your hotel is not listed, contact us for quoting
- Due to a new requirement issued by the Ministry of Tourism and the National Park Systems of Costa Rica, we need each person to send us the following information: Full Name on Passport, Passport number, Passport issuing country. You must carry a picture of your passport with you on your tour!
Photos
What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 1,183 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
6 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Knowledge and storytelling
2 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
Traveler reviews
1,183 verified traveler reviews for Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Fun times
Was a fun time with the guide and every one on the tour was nice and friendly
Response from the operator: It’s great to know you had such a fun time with us! We’re happy to hear you enjoyed the tour, your guide, and the friendly atmosphere with the rest of the group. Thanks for joining us and for sharing your experience! Pura Vida! Native's Way
via Tripadvisor
Excellent tour
Excellent trip- amazing sites and animals. Learned a lot about Costa Rica
Response from the operator: Sounds like you had a fantastic day exploring Costa Rica! We’re happy you enjoyed the amazing scenery and wildlife and were able to learn more about the country along the way. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and we hope to see you again on your next adventure! Pura Vida! Native's Way
via Tripadvisor
Must do this tour!
Felipe was best and took us to other really excellent guides.
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that Felipe provided such a great experience We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back again soon! Pura Vida, Native's Way
via Tripadvisor
Great Tour and Guide
This tour was a big hit with our family and the most memorable experience of our trip. Rudy and Orlando were truly remarkable guides! We had some great conversations with Rudy and couldn’t have asked for anyone better. He and Orlando made sure our daughters (9 and 11) had a great experience! We loved swimming at the waterfall, seeing sloths, and the Volcano hike. Rain is almost a guarantee in the rainforest, be sure to bring a poncho. We had disposable ponchos, I would bring reusable if I did it again because the disposable just stuck to our skin. No need for water shoes on this trip. Llanos de Cortes is a short walk from the parking lot and the waterfall area is all sand. Sandals work fine there.
Response from the operator: What a wonderful way to remember your Costa Rica trip! We’re so happy to hear that this tour was such a hit with your family and that Rudy and Orlando helped make the experience so memorable. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with both of them! It’s especially great to know that your daughters had such a fantastic time. We also appreciate you sharing your helpful tips about the rain and footwear for future travelers. Thank you for choosing Native’s Way and for recommending us. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming your family back to Costa Rica someday! Pura Vida, Native's Way
via Tripadvisor
Ehhh experience
Nothing on this tour was breathtaking. The bus driver drove fast enough that I was scared. I couldn’t hear the tour guide on the bus. He needed a microphone.
Response from the operator: Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that some aspects of the tour did not meet your expectations. Regarding the tour guide’s audio, we have not previously received a complaint that it was difficult to hear the guide inside the van or that a microphone was needed. Nevertheless, we appreciate you bringing this to our attention and will certainly take your suggestion into consideration as we look for ways to improve the experience for our guests. The safety and security of our guests is always our highest priority. We have made all of our drivers aware of the situation and reminded them of the driving guidelines and the standards of service we expect them to maintain. We reached out to you to learn more about what happened and better understand your concerns, but unfortunately, we did not receive a response. As for your comment that nothing on the tour was breathtaking, we are genuinely sorry that you were unable to enjoy any of the natural beauty and attractions included in the experience. While we understand that every guest may have a different perspective, the tour is designed to showcase some of the region’s most remarkable natural surroundings. We appreciate your feedback and will continue working to ensure our guests have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Pura Vida, Native's Way
via Viator
Good to know
- Duration
- 12 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $135 to $375
- Hotel pickup
- Available for selected locations
- Booked in 30 days
- 414
- Verdict
- Exceptional
Who runs this experience
Operated by Native's Way Costa Rica, who run 23 experiences we rank across 6 cities, with an average Outty Ranking of 72.5 and 1 in the 90+ Club.
See everything Native's Way Costa Rica runsWhy this scores 83
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for Alajuela.
How much does Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour cost?
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Prices start at $135 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 Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour take?
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Plan for about 12 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 Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 83 out of 100, which we label "Exceptional". That score blends traveler sentiment (4.6/5 across 1,184 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in Alajuela, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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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 Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 12-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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Around 414 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 12-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour 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.
What is included in Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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Included: Hotel pickup and drop-off; Driver/guide; Lunch; National park fees; and Professional bilingual guide. Not included: Gratuities; Round Trip Transport from Andaz, Planet Hollywood, Fours Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Catalin; and JW Marriott/Pinilla Pick Up Fee. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Does Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour include hotel pickup?
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Yes, pickup is offered, or you can meet at the start point instead from 99 listed pickup locations in and around Alajuela. You can also enter a custom pickup address when booking.
What languages is Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
What happens to Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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Across 1,184 reviews averaging 4.6 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, knowledge and storytelling. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Shared Transportation, Self Drive/Meet at Park, Private Transportation & Guide. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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