Overview
Legend says that when God finished painting the sky, he washed his brushes in this river. In Tenorio Volcano National Park, a guided 5-mile rainforest hike takes you to the Rio Celeste waterfall, past fumaroles venting volcanic gas, to Los Teñideros — the spot where two clear streams meet and turn the river its famous turquoise. A dip in natural hot springs and a hearty lunch finish the day.
- 6:00 am
Pickup in Tamarindo
Your guide collects you from your hotel for the drive east toward the Tenorio volcano.
- 9:00 am
Tenorio Volcano National Park
A short introduction from your guide at the ranger station, then into the rainforest.
- 9:45 am
Rio Celeste waterfall
Down the stairs to the viewpoint over the waterfall, a column of white water dropping into a sky-blue pool.
- 11:00 am
Fumaroles & Los Teñideros
Past volcanic vents and bubbling springs to Los Teñideros, where two clear streams meet and the river turns blue before your eyes.
- 1:00 pm
Hot springs & lunch
Soak tired legs in natural hot springs, then sit down to lunch.
- 5:00 pm
Back in Tamarindo
Dropped back at your hotel door.
What's included
- Round-trip transport from your Tamarindo hotel
- Bilingual naturalist guide
- Tenorio Volcano National Park entrance
- Natural hot springs visit
- Lunch
- Bottled water
Not included
- Gratuities for your guide and driver
- Souvenirs and personal expenses
What to bring
- Long pants for the trail
- Hiking shoes with grip — the trail is often muddy
- Swimsuit and a change of clothes for the hot springs
- Rain jacket or poncho
- Insect repellent
- Camera and binoculars
- Moderate fitness needed: about 5 miles of muddy, uneven trail with stairs down to the waterfall.
- Swimming in the Rio Celeste itself is not allowed inside the park.
- After heavy rain the river can turn milky; the forest and waterfall are worth it regardless.
- Children under 12 receive a 20% discount; under 3 travel free.
- Cancellations 24+ hours before departure carry a 50% fee. Inside 24 hours there is no refund.