Rio Celeste

Rio Celeste, in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, is one of the most enchanting natural wonders in Costa Rica, a river and waterfall that run a vivid, milky sky-blue, or celeste. The astonishing colour is created where two clear streams meet and a natural mineral reaction scatters the light, turning the water a surreal turquoise. A rainforest trail leads to the spectacular waterfall, the bubbling hot springs and the very spot where the river magically changes colour.

The landscape

• The waterfall - the vivid sky-blue cascade in the rainforest.
• The blue lagoon - the turquoise pool beneath the falls.
• Los Tenideros - the spot where two streams meet and turn blue.
• The rainforest trail - the jungle walk past hot springs and wildlife.

When to go

December to April, the dry season, when the water runs its clearest and most vivid blue; heavy rain in the wet season can cloud the river brown and dull the famous colour, so the dry season is far more reliable for the blue.

Before you go

Heavy rain can turn the river muddy brown and spoil the famous blue, so the dry season is far more reliable; even then the exact vividness varies. Swimming is not allowed in the park to protect the fragile colour. The trail is a few hours' walk and can be very muddy, so bring proper shoes. It is popular, so go early.

Nearby

Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna are within reach.

Key facts