Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

We went when it rained- not ideal when you go to see the blue water. We booked online for a time- they didn't seem to pay attention to the time you booked for because we arrived rather early and they let us right in. We also opted for doing the hike without a guide. I'd say if it is raining, to skip this stop. The water will be brown instead of pretty and blue. The trail is extremely muddy and the long path out to the water was pretty uneventful- the waterfall was the main attraction.

Although the booking process online kind of sucks, the park is well worth the visit. It's a moderately easy trail, being relatively flat most of the time and about 5km in length. You'll see a lot of interesting wildlife if you look close, a great whiff of sulfur, and beautiful views of rainforest, misty trails and blue water. The waterfall and bridges were super cool and not too crowded on a Sunday afternoon in November. Despite getting a lot of rain, this part of the river seems to be consistently blue.

ReParque Nacional Volcán Tenorio is an absolutely beautiful place to visit! We explored the park without a tour guide and had no issues. Purchasing tickets online was easy, and I’d definitely recommend doing so in advance. A big tip for anyone driving—stick to Google Maps! Waze took us the wrong way, so I’d avoid using it. Also, be sure to take a screenshot of the park ticket, as there’s little to no cell signal in the area. The park itself is stunning, with lush landscapes and plenty of wildlife. We were lucky enough to see a sloth, howler monkeys, and even an eyelash viper! The trails were well-maintained, and the scenery made the hike completely worth it. If you’re visiting Costa Rica, this park is a must-see!

Beautiful park . The Rio Celeste waterfall is a real beauty . I went during the off season so there was a lot of rain. I could not see its vibrant blue color but it was still beautiful . The trail goes up with a steep incline . You must be in shape to go to the top well worth the time and efforts ❤️ you can get a guide for extra cost but not necessary . I did fine on my own .

Location tend to rain so be prepare for walking under the raim. Because of it, the river might not be blue as in the pictures. Other than that is a nice walk

Review: Tenorio Volcano National Park – A Hidden Gem in Costa Rica Having traveled extensively, I can confidently say that Tenorio Volcano National Park is one of the most unique places I have ever visited. The park’s star attraction, Rio Celeste, is a breathtakingly bright blue river, its color formed by the volcanic minerals mixing with the water—a sight that feels almost otherworldly. The Hike & Scenery The journey through the park is just as spectacular as the final destination. The trail winds through lush rainforest, misty mountains, and cloud-covered peaks, creating an ethereal atmosphere. While the hike is not extremely difficult, it is not recommended for absolute beginners or those with ankle or foot injuries—the terrain can be challenging, especially after rain. Along the way, wildlife sightings are common. We even spotted a viper snake on the trail, adding to the adventure. The park is teeming with biodiversity, so keep an eye out for tropical birds, monkeys, and other rainforest creatures. Rio Celeste Waterfall Although we couldn't view the actual volcano, the Rio Celeste waterfall more than made up for it. The stunning turquoise cascade set against the deep green jungle is a sight that pictures can’t do justice. If you visit, make sure to take your time absorbing the view—it’s truly one of Costa Rica’s natural wonders. Tips for Visiting Book tickets in advance online. While the park provides Wi-Fi for booking, cell service is unreliable in the mountains. Bring a poncho or rain jacket. The weather can be unpredictable, and rain is common. Wear proper hiking shoes. The trails can be muddy and slippery, especially after rainfall. Plan for a moderate hike. If you're not used to hiking, pace yourself and take breaks as needed. Final Verdict Tenorio Volcano National Park is a must-visit for nature lovers, hikers, and anyone seeking a truly unique experience in Costa Rica. The surreal blue waters of Rio Celeste, the wildlife, and the stunning scenery make it an unforgettable destination. Just be prepared for a bit of a challenge on the trails—but trust me, it's worth every step!

The national Park has an easy to follow trail, therefore I can recommend this for anybody. Steep stairs to go down and see the waterfall but it's really worth it. It is probably best to book your tickets in advance on the national website because they can finish especially during high season. It could be worth booking a guided tour to be able to spot as much wildlife as possible, that is otherwise difficult to see alone!

The rain did not stop us. It was a beautiful hike to the waterfall. We saw an animal that looked like a small pig. Overall, it was adventurous and fun.