Hola 👋
There are so many beautiful places in Costa Rica that it’s surprisingly easy to keep pushing some of them down the list. That’s exactly what happened with Rio Celeste for us. When we finally made the trip, it just so happened to be during the two days that Tenorio Volcano National Park was closed for maintenance. Of course. But even with that setback, we had a great time exploring the area and quickly understood why it’s become such a popular stop.
Rio Celeste is now firmly on our list as a favorite one night stopover if we’re aimlessly exploring, or an easy few day escape from the heat when we’re in Playa Flamingo. If you’re planning a visit, this quick travel guide to Rio Celeste is a simple starting point to help you make the most of your trip. Let’s go.
Looking down at Anita in the blue river
How to Get to Rio Celeste
Rio Celeste flows through northern Costa Rica near Tenorio Volcano National Park, but the river itself stretches well beyond the park boundaries. Only a small section of the river, including the famous waterfall and the point where the water turns bright blue, is located inside the national park.
If you’re flying into Liberia International Airport (LIR), the drive is about 1.5 hours and is the most convenient option. From San José International Airport (SJO), expect closer to 3.5 to 4 hours depending on traffic and weather.
If you’re starting in the San José area, we recommend building Rio Celeste into a larger route. Spend a few days in La Fortuna, continue north to Rio Celeste, and then head down to the Guanacaste beaches like Brasilito, Playa Flamingo, or Potrero. It makes for a well balanced 10 day loop without too much backtracking.
Cities, mountains, beaches… oh my
Stunning from above
Accessing Rio Celeste
Most visitors enter Tenorio Volcano National Park to hike to the iconic Rio Celeste Waterfall and the point where two clear streams merge to create the river’s bright blue color. This is the most photographed section and the main draw.
That said, the river continues well outside the park and can be accessed in several other areas. Along parts of the main highway, you’ll find small roadside pull offs where visitors park and walk down short paths to reach the water. Some sections are public and informal, while others sit on private property with small entrance fees.
Anna and I stayed two nights at Hideaway Rio Celeste, which gave us access to a semi private stretch of the river reserved for hotel guests. Experiencing the water outside the main park entrance was a quieter and more relaxed way to enjoy the area, especially early in the morning.
If you want the waterfall and official trail system, head into the park. If you want a slower pace and fewer people, consider staying nearby and exploring additional access points.
Sometimes empty
Sometimes crazy, but always a good time
Where to Eat and Grab a Brew
There isn’t much other than a few sodas (local restaurants) directly around the Rio Celeste park entrance, so most travelers venture back into Bijagua de Upala, the small town just down the road. Bijagua has a handful of solid cafes, local restaurants, and small markets. It’s not flashy, but it has everything you need for a comfortable stay.
If you’re into craft beer, make time for Colors Brewing Company right in town and Blue River Brewery nearby. They’re close enough that you can stop on your way in, on your way out, or multiple times while you’re there. Rio Celeste is about slowing down. Bijagua brings some energy back into the trip. Blue River Brewing is a lunch/dinner spot that shouldn’t be missed, and the view is surreal when the weather cooperates.
The very first customer at the new taproom
Where to Stay in Rio Celeste
There are plenty of eco lodges and cabins scattered throughout the area. Most are tucked into forested properties with views of Tenorio Volcano or access to nearby trails. Some of the popular spots are below.
- Hideaway Rio Celeste
- Carolina Lodge
- Celeste Mountain Lodge
- Tenorio Lodge
We chose to stay at Hideaway Rio Celeste for two nights. It’s on the expensive side for us, but we were able to leverage some free nights by using our credit card points. The property is quiet and surrounded by nature, and offers direct river access. Waking up to howler monkeys in the trees above us and the sound of the river nearby was a completely different experience than treating Rio Celeste as a quick stop. Two nights gave us enough time to explore the hotel grounds that included a hiking trail and river access, relax, and enjoy the slower pace of the area without feeling rushed.
Fancy for us 😂
Mellow pool time
How Long to Stay in Rio Celeste?
One to two nights is ideal. You could technically visit Rio Celeste as a long day trip, but staying overnight allows you to explore at a more relaxed pace and experience the area beyond just the waterfall. If you’re using it as a stopover between La Fortuna and Guanacaste, one night works well. If you want to enjoy your lodge, nearby trails, and a slower rhythm, two nights is perfect.
Travel Tips for Rio Celeste
- If recent heavy rain has occurred, the water may not appear as vividly blue.
- Book accommodations in advance. The best lodges and cabins can fill up quickly throughout the year.
- Always prepare for rain. Even in the dry season, weather can shift quickly. See our Costa Rica packing list for recommendations.
- Use Rio Celeste as a strategic stopover to break up longer drives between destinations.
- Visit the national park early in the morning for fewer crowds and better trail conditions.
Let’s go!
Rio Celeste is one of those places that feels almost unreal the first time you see it. The color of the water doesn’t look natural, and that’s exactly what makes it special. Whether you’re hiking inside Tenorio Volcano National Park, swimming at a quieter access point, or spending a couple of nights in Bijagua, Rio Celeste Costa Rica deserves more than a quick photo stop. It works beautifully as a stopover, a short nature escape, or part of a larger northern Costa Rica route. If you have room in your itinerary, make the time. Rio Celeste Costa Rica is absolutely worth it.
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For more tips on car rentals in Costa Rica, check out our Guide To Renting A Car in Costa Rica.
