Hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to Los Teñideros and the milky blue Rio Celeste, spot sloths in a sanctuary and end the day with a traditional Costa Rican meal. This full‑day trip mixes volcanic geology, rainforest wildlife and practical trail experience.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You enter the rainforest to a chorus of dripping leaves and distant bird calls, the trail shaping itself over roots and volcanic rock. Within the first hour the forest tightens, ferns brushing your legs, and then a bright turquoise ribbon appears — Rio Celeste — as if the river decided to wear the sky.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness required: able to hike 5 miles on uneven, sometimes muddy terrain and handle stairs and short climbs.
Wildlife
History
Tenorio’s landscape is shaped by volcanic activity; the mineral‑rich streams and fumaroles reflect the park’s position on ancient lava flows and hydrothermal systems.
Conservation
The park limits access on trails and asks visitors to stay on boardwalks and avoid soaps or sunscreens in waterways to preserve Rio Celeste’s color and delicate aquatic ecosystems.
Reserve your spot on the Rio Celeste, Tenorio Hike, Sloths Sanctuary & Meal today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early
Departures begin around 7:30am — earlier light improves animal sightings and keeps you ahead of afternoon showers.
Wear grippy shoes
Trails include muddy sections, roots and boardwalks; closed‑toe hiking shoes with good tread reduce slips.
Respect thermal features
Keep to marked paths near fumaroles and hot springs — vents can expel scalding gases and unstable ground.
Protect the water
Do not use soaps or sunscreens in rivers and avoid touching the calcium deposits at Los Teñideros to preserve the blue color.
Hiking shoes
Sturdy, grippy shoes handle roots, mud and wet boardwalks on the 5‑mile loop.
Light rain jacket
Quick protection from tropical downpours common in the wet season.
summer
Insect repellent
Keeps mosquitoes and other biting insects at bay in humid rainforest sections.
summer
Binoculars or camera with zoom
Helps spot sloths, toucans and other canopy wildlife without disturbing them.