Spend a full day exploring Tenorio National Park from Bijagua: swim at Llanos de Cortes, hike to the surreal turquoise Río Celeste, sample local coffee and hunt for sloths with a bilingual guide. This practical, nature-focused tour blends geology, wildlife and Costa Rican cuisine.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
Morning fog peels off the canopy as your van threads north from the Pacific lowlands toward Bijagua. By midmorning you’re wading into the cool pool below Llanos de Cortes, the river daring you to strip off the travel dust and swim. Later, the trail to Río Celeste climbs through moss-lashed trees until the water insists on revealing its unnatural turquoise — a chemical marriage of volcanic minerals and flowing limestone.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
9 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate fitness: able to hike 3–4 miles round trip on uneven terrain and manage several flights of steps.
Wildlife
History
The Tenorio area has long been home to small-scale farmers; volcanic soils supported coffee and cattle that shaped Bijagua’s rural economy.
Conservation
Tenorio National Park protects delicate river chemistry — stay on trails, avoid contaminating water and support local guides who fund conservation.
Reserve your spot on the Sloths, Rio Celestes & Rainforest with Lunch, Full Day Tour today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Start early and hydrate
Departure is typically 7:30 a.m.; bring at least 1–2 liters of water to stay hydrated during hikes and transfers.
Footwear for mud and stairs
Choose grippy hiking shoes or trail runners — trails to Río Celeste have muddy sections and uneven stone steps.
Protect the river
Do not use soaps or sunscreens in river pools; Río Celeste’s color depends on delicate mineral and algal balance.
Bring local cash
Carry small bills for souvenirs or tips — some local stalls and the lunch stop prefer cash.
Sturdy hiking shoes
Provide grip and ankle support on wet, rocky trails and stair sections.
Light rain jacket
Quick showers are common year-round; a packable shell keeps you dry and warm.
summer
Swimsuit and quick-dry towel
For the Llanos de Cortes swim and river-side breaks.
Insect repellent with DEET or picaridin
Keeps mosquitoes and biting insects at bay during forest sections.
summer