• Rio Celeste -

The dazzling centrepiece of the Tenorio Volcano National Park, the Rio Celeste is most famous for its shockingly bright blue color, the result of a natural reaction of volcanic sulfur and calcium carbonate, which turns the clear waters a powder-blue shade. Reached by hiking through the surrounding rainforest, there are a number of sights of interest located along the Rio Celeste, most notably the Rio Celeste Waterfall, a favorite photo spot where the river tumbles into a striking blue lagoon; the Tenideros, where two rivers merge in the Celeste; and the Poza Azul, the most renowned “dye pool,” where the reaction is most noticeable.

The river’s startling color change is best viewed during the dry season (December to April), as excess rainfall can dilute the reactive chemicals leaving the waters with a less-appealing muddy hue.

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The Rio Celeste, the crown jewel of Tenorio Volcano National Park, is renowned for its intense turquoise hue. This phenomenon is the outcome of a mix involving volcanic sulfur and calcium carbonate, which colors the clear river waters with a pale blue tint. Accessible via a hike through the nearby tropical forest, the Rio Celeste trail offers various attractions, including the Rio Celeste Waterfall \’96 an iconic photography location where the azure river cascades into a beautiful blue pool; the Tenideros, the confluence where two streams blend into the Celeste river; and the Poza Azul, the famed coloration site, where the chemical interaction is most dramatic.\n\nThe river’s vivid discoloration is optimally witnessed during the dry season, that spans from December to April. Heavier rainfalls can weaken the reactive substances and result in the river adopting a less spectacular, muddy coloration.

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.