25 Free or Cheap Things to do in Rio Celeste

Rio Celeste is well-known for its stunning turquoise blue waters, hiking trails, lush rainforest, beautiful landscape, and wildlife. Most of the fun things to do when visiting revolve around these attractions. There are about 40 fun activities in and near Rio Celeste to engage in that will make your visit worthwhile. And having tried out all 40 of them, I highly recommend just 25.

Yearly, tourists troop into Costa Rica to visit the much-talked-about natural wonder because, compared to other tourist attractions in the country that look similar, there is nothing like it.

As someone who has been visiting Costa Rica for the past ten years with my husband, Rio Celeste is one of the places we have visited the most, which has given us enough time to participate in all of the 25 recommended activities.

In this guide, I will share vital information on the activities that are the easiest and hardest to try, those you should do based on personal preference, and also the best times to try them.

Key Takeaways

Here are some takeaways from this article if you don’t have time to read through them:

• The Rio Celeste has five main attractions, and hiking through the trails takes approximately 4 hours.
• The best time to watch birds and see an array of wildlife is in the dry season, from December through April.
• The activity that is full of adrenaline and gives you the most beautiful scenic view of the Rio Celeste is ziplining and canopy tours.
• Picnicking by the riverbank is the best way to bond with your family and loved ones.
• Having a yoga retreat by the river with turquoise waters is the most fulfilling thing.
• Buying local crafts and souvenirs is an excellent way of supporting local businesses.
• Attending local events and festivals gives you a view of the area’s richness.

List of Rio Celeste Things To Do 

In no particular order, here is the list of things to do when visiting Rio Celeste:

1. Hike to the Rio Celeste Waterfall

I’ve compiled a table with essential information and recommendations for you to help you plan. Here’s what you need to prepare for this hike:

Item	Recommendation
Park Tickets	Purchase online before arrival on SINAC website.
Reusable Water Bottle	Bring a filled reusable water bottle; single-use plastics are not allowed.
Hiking Shoes	Wear closed-toe waterproof hiking shoes or trail running shoes.
Rain Gear	Bring a waterproof rain jacket or heavy-duty poncho.
Bug Spray	Apply insect repellent before and during the hike.
Sunscreen	Apply sunscreen before starting the hike.
Clothing	Wear lightweight, breathable clothing (e.g., shorts and a t-shirt).
Daypack	Carry essentials like water, snacks, and rain gear.
Snacks	Pack non-plastic container snacks (e.g., granola bars).
Arrival Time	Arrive before 9 AM during peak season (December-April, July).
Hike Duration	Plan for 3–4 hours to complete the entire trail.
Trail Length	3.7 miles (6 km) round trip.
Difficulty	Moderate, with 200 steep steps to the waterfall.
Guide	Not required, but can be helpful for wildlife identification.
Camera	Bring a waterproof camera or protective case.
Cash	Bring cash for entrance fees or rent rain boots ($5 USD).
Change of Clothes	Pack a spare set of clothes for after the hike.

Additional tips for the Rio Celeste Waterfall hike:

1. The trail can be muddy and slippery, especially during the rainy season, so be prepared for potentially challenging conditions.
2. Swimming is prohibited inside the national park, but there’s a free public entrance 1 km away where swimming is allowed.
3. The waterfall’s signature blue color may not be visible after heavy rains, so check weather conditions before your visit.
4. The park closes at 4 PM, with the last entry at 2 PM.
5. Consider visiting during the drier months (December–April) for a higher chance of seeing the vibrant blue color, but be prepared for larger crowds.

The hiking starts once you’ve gained entrance into the jungle. The jungle has five significant attractions, and hiking trails lead to each.

The waterfall, also called “Catarata,” was the first place we headed, following the signs. We climbed down about 250 staircases leading to the waterfall. It was such a magnificent sight to behold.

The water gushing out of the waterfall is crystal clear; however, when it hits the pool beneath, you see a stunning turquoise-blue watercolor flowing through rocks and lush generations.

We took some time to immerse ourselves in the beauty and then moved on to see the Mirador (viewpoint), where you can see the beautiful Tenorio Volcano Mountain with clouds.

Then, the Blue Lagoon, also called the Laguna Azul, where we saw the beautiful turquoise-colored river, then the Hot Springs (Borbollones), where you see the bubbles on the river due to sulphuric gasses coming from the Tenorio Volcano.

And lastly, the Los Tenideros, where we saw the confluence of the two rivers to give the striking turquoise color and brought our hike to an end.

The hiking trails were a blend of rocks and wooden suspended bridges. Some, like the one leading to the waterfall, were very steep, while others were easy to hike through.

The hike was worth it and took us approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes.

2. Explore Tenorio Volcano National Park 

It is located in the Guanacaste Volcanic Mountain Range, Northern Costa Rica. Tenorio Volcano National Park encompasses an area of approximately 18,400 hectares and is named after the majestic Tenorio Volcano.

One of the main attractions of Tenorio Volcano National Park is the stunning Rio Celeste, a beautiful turquoise-colored river that spirals through the lush tropical rainforest.

To gain access to the park, you pay a $12 entrance fee for adult foreigners and $5 for children

Once inside the park, tourists can hike along the Rio Celeste trails, which lead to the majestic waterfalls, breath-taking viewpoints, and natural hot springs.

The park is the abode of various species of plants and animals, making it the perfect place for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

As you continue hiking, you can hear the forest teem with life from the constant sound of insects, the chirping of birds, etc.

My husband and I spotted a toucan, quetzal, monkey, and sloth. It was an exciting hike indeed.

3. Visit Los Tenideros

As I hiked more profoundly into the lush rainforest, one of the most beautiful sights I’ve ever seen was Los Tenideros. Here is where the two rivers, Rio Buena Vista and Quebrada Agria, converge to form the Los Tenideros.

There are many myths about how the Rio Celeste got its turquoise-blue color. The indigenous people believe that goods dipped their paint brushes into rivers after painting the sky.

However, in recent times, a comprehensive analysis from the University of Costa Rica discovered that the watercolor is an optical illusion caused by the dispersing of sunlight from the suspended Aluminosilicate in the river and appears turquoise blue to the eyes.

You can try taking some water samples into a clean, crystal-clear container, and you’ll notice that it is transparent.

4. Relax at Hot Springs 

The hot springs have a temperature of about 39–45 °C. Standing by it, you can see bubbles on the water’s surface due to sulphuric gasses coming from beneath the Tenorio Volcano into the Spring.

Before they restricted tourists from swimming in it, it was an excellent relation spot in the park where you could dip in after the long hike. However, you can visit the nearby Hot Springs at Arenal Volcano for a dip.

The therapeutic benefits of swimming in the hot springs include relief from arthritis and muscle aches, stress reduction, and improved blood circulation.

The best time to visit the hot springs is during the dry season, from December to April. It’s because the water is at its warmest around this time.

5. Bird Watching

Whether you are an experienced birder or not, hiking through the park will take you on a captivating birdwatching journey, as there are various species of birds sitting pretty on top of the tree branches.

While hiking through the trails, I noticed a gorgeous Motmot decorated with striking turquoise and rust feathers on a tree branch.

As I proceeded, I saw Toucans, Parrots, Hawks, Tangaras, Hummingbirds, Quetzals, and a lot of bird species that I could not remember their names. It was so beautiful and thrilling to watch. 

6. River Tubing

River tubing in a turquoise-colored river is out of this world. You can feel the water on your skin and see the fish underneath it, with a tiny dose of adrenaline running through your body while traveling over small rapids.

It was the best thing I enjoyed doing while hiking in the Rio Celeste until they put a restriction on it due to some casualties. However, you can still go river tubing in nearby tourist destinations like Arenal Volcano.

The service would cost $50–$70 for an adult and $15–$30 for children. The lowest age for children is four years, and there is insurance and a tour guide. You can rivertub for up to 4 km, watching birds and other scenic views around you as you drift.

Pro Tip

• The best time to go river tubing is during the dry season, from December to April.
• Wear a waterproof shoe so even if you get wet, you don’t mind.
• Always ask for a life jacket before river tubing.

7. Horseback Riding

A horseback riding tour is one of the activities you should look forward to enjoying when you visit Rio Celeste.

It is thrilling as you ride on horseback with other tourists to an elevated point where you can see the majestic Rio Celeste waterfall from that high point.

You also have a scenic view of the entire landscape and its beauty. Many tours, like David Tours, offer this fun activity near Rio Celeste, which costs between $40 and $70 for this service.

Pro Tips

Before riding on the back of a horse, ensure the following:

• The horse is in stable condition.
• You are provided with a helmet.
• The riding boots are sturdy, have a small heel, and completely cover your ankle.
• The saddle fits you correctly.
• A professional is riding along with you.

8. Kayaking

Kayaking is another fun thing to do when visiting the Rio Celeste, but no spots are available at the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

However, you can visit the nearby Arenal Lake to kayak with loved ones and other tourists.

9. Picnicking by the River

Swimming in Rio Celeste is strictly not allowed in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, as is picnicking by the river. However, you can picnic and swim in the turquoise river in the free pool outside the park.

It is easily accessible and a minute’s drive from Tenorio Volcano National Park. When you arrive, there is a short pathway down the river from where the cars are parked. 

Once you get there, you can look for a comfortable spot to picnic by the riverbank. Then you can swim in it, but ensure not to dip your head in the river due to its minerals.

It’s cool and refreshing and it’s best visited during the weekdays and in the morning when the crowd is less.

Pro Tip

• There is no parking lot. You can park by the roadside, but ensure you take valuables out of your car and lock it properly.

10. Wildlife Photography

Rio Celeste is a desirable spot for taking memorable shots. The stunning turquoise-blue waters, lush rainforest, and wildlife in the park are all perfect for a photograph.

One of the things I was grateful for coming along with was my camera when I first visited. I took so many beautiful shots that seeing the photos now brings back so many memories. And the funny thing is, I have taken countless photos on my subsequent visits, and they all feel brand new with different memories.

Whether you are a professional photographer or not, Rio Celeste is a perfect spot to take mind-blowing shots.

11. Swimming in Natural Pools

The turquoise watercolor is so tempting to swim in, but swimming in it is no longer allowed after some casualties in the river. However, you can swim in the pool outside the park; it is free, but your safety depends on you.

12. Cultural Tours

Costa Rica has a vibrant culture. When visiting the Rio Celeste, take a cultural tour around the area.

For example, tour the local farms to learn the production and cultivation of cocoa beans and take a tour of the Maleku indigenous reserve to learn about their traditions and way of life.

Visit a local chocolate and coffee factory to learn how chocolate and coffee are made. Trust me, you need to visit with an empty stomach because I was filled with tasting different varieties.

And try out local cooking classes to learn Costa Rican cuisines, etc. Having this tour helps you immerse yourself in the culture of this area.

13. Guided Nature Walks

If you are a wildlife enthusiast and nature lover, it’s good to go into the park with a tour guide who is very knowledgeable about the flora and fauna of the area.

You will learn a lot about the ecological relationships in the jungle, the use and benefits of most plant species, and how to respect nature in and out of the park.

Highly recommended and worth the tour.

14. Camping

There is no nightlife or camping sites inside of the Tenorio Volcano National Park. However, you can camp at lodges and hotels close to the park.

Below are some of the hotels near Rio Celeste I’ve camped at that offered excellent service:

Rio Celeste Hideaway

• Address: 700 meters west of national park Tenorio Alajuela Rio Celeste, 21502, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 2206 4000
• Website
• Ratings: 4.8/5 on Google

It is one of the best hotels I have stayed at in Costa Rica, and I don’t want to return.

It was an incredible experience of luxury. The services were top-notch, the staff was beautiful, and the food was delicious. My husband and I kept talking about it the entire time on our way back.

The hotel is 700 meters from the Parks entrance, so you get to enjoy the scenic views and listen to the sounds coming from the jungle.  A night here cost us $400 when we last visited.

Catarata, Rio Celeste Lodge

• Address: 400 meters northwest of the Paz San Rafael school, 21504, Costa Rica
• Contact: +506 8938 9927
• Website
• Ratings: 4.4/5 on Google

If you are on a budget, this is the perfect lodge. A night here costs about $70 and is just 3 km from the park’s entrance. The rooms are spacious, and the food is excellent. They also provide free wifi.

15. Visit Local Villages

Rio Celeste is surrounded by small towns and villages with their own attractions. The first time I visited most of the villages I will share with you was after my husband and I finished hiking and were looking for more fun things to do.

Then, a local told us to try nearby villages and explore their beauty. I was initially skeptical, but the next day, we decided to visit some of the nearby towns. Below are a few of them:

Katira: 22 km from Rio Celeste, you are in this beautiful town. It is a small, peaceful village with a lovely local market where you can shop for locally made handcrafts and fresh local produce.

Guatoso: is a small town near Rio Celeste where you can explore beautiful caves and learn some Costa Rican crafts.

Bijagua: The gateway to the Tenorio Volcano National Park, is a lively town with blue water, wildlife, and many 4-star hotels and restaurants.

16. Attend a Cooking Class

Another fun thing to do while visiting is to attend cooking classes to learn how to make simple traditional Costa Rican cuisine.

The duration of this class always lasts between one hour and three hours, and you pay between 60 and 150 colones per person.

Aside from learning how to cook Costa Rican cuisine, the class is always fun and full of laughter.

It would be best if you tried it out.

17. Fishing

The waters of Rio Celeste abound with different species of freshwater fish. You can see them swim in the river as you hike along. However, fishing is not allowed in the park. You can go fishing in the free pool outside the park.

You can easily catch trout and other freshwater fish. But here’s the thing: these fish are more visible and accessible in the dry season.

So if you plan on fishing when you visit the Rio Celeste, go in the dry season.

18. Yoga Retreats

Rio Celeste is such a peaceful and pristine environment that encourages Yoga retreats and wellness programs.

From my adventure of trying out fun things to do in Rio Celeste, I discovered that most hotels offer yoga retreats and wellness programs, but the one that stood out for me was at Rio Celeste Hideaway.

The yoga and wellness sessions were beginner-friendly and offered a yoga detox, massage therapy, and workout. I would recommend it.

19. Visit Nearby Waterfalls

Aside from the Rio Celeste waterfall, there are other lesser-known waterfalls with incredible views and landscapes near Rio Celeste. My husband and I visited a couple of them and had a great time there. Below are some of these waterfalls:

La Leona Waterfall

This waterfall is located in the Guanacaste province of northern Costa Rica, and a 20-minute drive from the Liberia International Airport will get you there. The waterfall is incredible, flowing from a deep orange canyon into a breathtaking swimming pool beneath it.

The hike to the waterfall was moderate and involved crossing mouth-gaping blue rivers, climbing small ladders, and swimming using a rope to fight the current before you finally reached the waterfall.

El Santuario (La Catedral Waterfall)

A 1-hour, 15-minute drive from Liberia gets you to this beautiful waterfall. It is the widest waterfall I’ve seen in Costa Rica, cascading into a narrow, sloped canyon beneath a lovely patch of rainforest.

It’s such a breathtaking sight, and we were lucky to see the ethereal light rays.

Llanos de Cortez

Llanos De Cortez is located in the Alajuela province, and a 20-minute drive from Liberia International Airport will get you here. 

Hiking to the waterfall was very easy, and the water was warm to swim in. The beautiful thing about this waterfall is that the spray of the falls creates a constant rainbow.

The best time to visit is in the dry season.

20. Coffee Plantation

Another fun thing to do when visiting the Rio Celeste is to take a coffee plantation tour.

The tour is usually done on coffee farms near Rio Celeste, where you learn about the processes involved in coffee cultivation, from planting to harvesting.

The tour guides explained the various phases of coffee growth, factors that affect the quality of the cocoa beans, and the different processing methods and stages.

All of these are so much fun and learning. The part I enjoyed most was picking the beans and tasting various coffees and their unique flavors.

And one more thing: you can see various wildlife while touring the plantation. I saw a beautiful baby sloth.

21. Explore Caves

Exploring some caves near Rio Celeste was among the fun things I did with my husband.

We visited the Venado Caves, about an hour and 30 minutes’ drive from Rio Celeste. When we arrived at the cave, our tour guide gave us helmets and headlamps, and we changed into light clothes and sturdy hiking waterproof shoes.

Then we went into the dark hollows, wading through underground rivers, climbing rocks, and crawling narrow passages for two hours.

It was quite an adventure, only suitable for people with moderate fitness levels.

22. Take a Canopy Tour

Another fun activity to do while visiting Rio Celeste is ziplining and canopy tours.

This activity gives you the best adventure and views full of adrenaline. You will go through seven lines of canopy, experiencing the landscape on the treetops and observing wildlife.

I did the zip-lining and canopy tour with a professional tour guide. Before the activity, the tour guide gave me a helmet, gloves, and fruit drinks.

The tour took an hour, and what I love the most is that it requires little fitness. It’s not much work—just gliding through zip lines and enjoying the scenery around you.

This costs between $38 and $46 per person. $38 for residents, $42 for public tours, and $46 for private tours. And it’s available for ages 4 to 70.

23. Visit Indigenous Reserves

After the hike, I overheard some tourists talking about visiting some Indigenous reserves in the area and thought it was a fun thing to do, so I joined them. We visited the Maleku Indigenous Reserve, which is located near Guatuso town, not too far from the Tenorio Volcano National Park.

The population of the inhabitants is about 600, making it the smallest tribe in Costa Rica.

When we arrived, the community leaders guided us on a trail to learn about their use of medicinal plants, native farms, crafts, and language. We watched how they presented an ancient ceremony to the Holy God, nature, and man—and ended the tour by buying souvenirs and handicrafts made by community artisans to support their local economy.

Pro Tip

• Please respect the culture and traditions of the people and ask for permission before taking photos.

24. Attend Local Festivals

There are several festivals and events to attend in Costa Rica because of their love for parties and food.

All year round, there are celebrations of events and festivals of all kinds, from religious and secular to national and both small and big festivals alike.

If you visit in January, you should attend the New Year’s Celebration, Palmares Fiestas, a two-week concert with bullfighting, horseback riding, folklore, and dancing, or the Santa Cruz Fiestas in Guanacaste.

In March, you can attend the International Arts Festival, where there are exhibitions of world-class art performances and dance, or the Fruit Festival, where you can taste different, unique fruits and recipes.

April is the Holy Easter Month and celebrations. July is the Annexation of Guanacaste Day, a national celebration in honor of when the Guanacaste province chose Costa Rica over the neighboring country Nicaragua in 1824. The celebration is on July 25th and features parades, bullfighting, and plenty of drinks. 

And many other celebrations, such as Independence Day in September and Christmas celebrations in December,.

25. Shopping For Local Handicrafts

There is a souvenir store close to the park. However, if you want to see an array of homemade crafts and souvenirs to choose from and buy, go to the town of Bijagua, the central market in Liberia, or La Fortuna near Arenal Volcano.

These are places where you can find a wide range of traditional crafts and souvenirs.

While exploring Rio Celeste, you can also savor local cuisine by checking out the Restaurants Near Rio Celeste for great dining options. 

Conclusion

Rio Celeste is a beautiful sight, but the vast array of activities in and near it makes it a bundle of non-stop fun and learning.

Remember that most activities may require physical fitness and traveling for an hour or more. So come prepared to enjoy and participate in the ones that you can.