Exploring the stunning Rio Celeste River Waterfall is a must-do activity for nature enthusiasts visiting Costa Rica. This full-day tour from San Jose promises a breathtaking hike through lush rainforest trails, culminating in the mesmerizing blue waters of the waterfall. Relaxing in the nearby mineral-rich hot springs adds to the allure of this immersive adventure. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, adventurers can expect personalized attention and an unforgettable experience. But what we love about this tour, and why should travelers consider adding it to their itinerary? Let’s dive in to find out.

This experience made our list of the 14 Best Spa And Hot Springs Experiences In San Jose.

Good To Know

  • Full-day adventure from San Jose to Tenorio Volcano National Park, featuring stunning blue waters, mineral-rich hot springs, and guided rainforest hikes.
  • Includes hotel pickup, 2.5-hour drive, Costa Rican lunch, and a 2.5-hour hike through rainforest trails with waterfalls and lookout points.
  • Maximum group size of 15 travelers ensures an intimate experience with a professional guide.
  • Flexible cancellation policy allows free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.
  • Moderate physical fitness level required, with the tour not suitable for individuals with mobility issues or serious medical conditions.

Tour Overview

Rio Celeste River Waterfall, Hike and Hot Springs Tour From San Jose, Costa Rica - Tour Overview

The Rio Celeste River Tour offers a full-day adventure from San Jose to explore the stunning blue waters of Costa Rica’s Tenorio Volcano National Park.

Along the way, you’ll hike alongside the river and soak in mineral-rich hot springs near the Arenal Volcano. The tour includes pickup from select hotels, a 2.5-hour drive, a Costa Rican lunch, and guided nature walks showcasing the lush Alajuela province.

The highlight is the 2.5-hour hike through rainforest trails, with opportunities to see waterfalls and scenic lookout points.

With a maximum of 15 travelers, this tour provides an intimate and immersive experience in one of Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

Itinerary Details

The tour begins with pickup from hotels in San Jose, Alajuela, Heredia, or Cartago at 8:00 am.

It’s then a 2.5-hour drive to Tenorio Volcano National Park. Along the way, there’s an opportunity to purchase snacks before entering the park.

Once there, travelers will enjoy a Costa Rican lunch before embarking on the 2.5-hour hike through the rainforest trails, complete with waterfalls and lookout points.

The hike showcases the lush Alajuela province and Tenorio Volcano National Park, providing an immersive experience in Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

Included in the Tour

Rio Celeste River Waterfall, Hike and Hot Springs Tour From San Jose, Costa Rica - Included in the Tour

The tour’s inclusions feature local taxes, a Costa Rican lunch, a professional guide, necessary equipment, gratuities, and souvenir photos.

Groups are limited to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a personalized experience. A minimum of 2 people is required to book the tour, making it ideal for couples or small parties.

Travelers can take advantage of the tour’s flexible cancellation policy, which allows them to cancel up to 24 hours before the experience starts without penalty.

The tour’s inclusions provide a comprehensive package that caters to the needs and comfort of the participants, allowing them to fully enjoy the natural beauty of Rio Celeste.

Group Size and Booking

Rio Celeste River Waterfall, Hike and Hot Springs Tour From San Jose, Costa Rica - Group Size and Booking

The tour limits group sizes to a maximum of 15 travelers, ensuring a more personalized and intimate experience for participants.

A minimum of two people is required to book the tour, allowing the experience to operate even for smaller groups. This group size model provides a balance between enjoying the tranquility of the natural surroundings and having a guide’s full attention.

Travelers can also take advantage of the free cancellation policy up to 24 hours before the tour starts, offering flexibility in planning their Costa Rican adventure.

Cancellation Policy

Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience starts provides travelers with the flexibility to adjust their plans as needed. This policy allows customers to receive a full refund if they need to cancel their Rio Celeste tour for any reason.

Booking the tour requires a minimum of two people, ensuring a small group size for a more personalized experience. The maximum group size is 15 travelers, maintaining an intimate atmosphere throughout the day’s activities.

This cancellation policy and group size requirements make the Rio Celeste tour an accessible and hassle-free option for those wishing to explore Costa Rica’s natural wonders.

Health and Accessibility

Participants should have a moderate physical fitness level to partake in the Rio Celeste tour.

The hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park lasts approximately 2.5 hours and covers rainforest trails with waterfalls and lookout points.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, so travelers with mobility issues may have difficulty. Plus, the tour is unsuitable for individuals with heart problems or serious medical conditions.

Participants should be prepared for a moderately strenuous hike through varying terrain.

Traveler Feedback

Rio Celeste River Waterfall, Hike and Hot Springs Tour From San Jose, Costa Rica - Traveler Feedback

Travelers have left a total of 6 reviews for the Rio Celeste River Tour, with an overall rating of 4.5 stars.

Feedback on the tour experience has been generally positive, with praise for the knowledgeable and friendly guide. However, some travelers noted that changes in itinerary due to weather conditions can affect the vibrant blue color of the Rio Celeste river.

Getting to Tenorio Volcano National Park

The Rio Celeste River Tour begins with a pickup from hotels in San Jose, Alajuela, Heredia, or Cartago at 8:00 am.

The approximately 2.5-hour drive to Tenorio Volcano National Park allows travelers to take in the lush scenery of the Alajuela province.

Before entering the park, there’s an opportunity to purchase snacks.

The tour then includes:

  • A Costa Rican lunch
  • A 2.5-hour hike through rainforest trails with waterfalls and lookout points
  • Exploring the blue waters of the Rio Celeste
  • Soaking in mineral-rich hot springs near Arenal Volcano

The tour is led by a professional guide and accommodates a maximum of 15 travelers.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size on the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 15 travelers. The minimum number of people required to book the tour is 2.

Is Transportation From San Jose Included in the Tour Price?

Yes, transportation from San Jose hotels is included in the tour price. The overview states the tour provides pickup from hotels in San Jose, Alajuela, Heredia, or Cartago at 8:00 am.

Are There Any Additional Fees or Costs Not Mentioned?

The tour price includes local taxes, lunch, guide, equipment, gratuities, and souvenir photos. There don’t appear to be any additional fees or costs not mentioned in the tour overview details.

Can Private Tours or Customized Options Be Arranged?

Yes, private tours and customized options can be arranged for this experience. Guests should contact the tour provider directly to discuss their preferences and any additional costs or requirements.

What Should Participants Bring or Pack for the Tour?

Participants should bring comfortable hiking shoes, light clothing, rain jacket, swimsuit, towel, insect repellent, sunscreen, and camera. It’s also a good idea to pack snacks and water for the day’s activities.

The Sum Up

This Rio Celeste River Waterfall tour from San Jose offers a chance to take in Costa Rica’s natural beauty. Hikers will witness stunning waterfalls, vibrant blue waters, and relax in mineral-rich hot springs, all while enjoying a local lunch. With small group sizes and knowledgeable guides, this day trip provides a personalized and unforgettable experience in Tenorio Volcano National Park.