28 ༡ HAYES 
 JARVIS
PHOTO: COURTESY RÍO CELESTE HIDEAWAY (TUBING)
At the confluence of two forest 
streams, nature’s magic feels tangible. 
Experience the brilliance of turquoise 
waters, the ancient, untouched spirit 
of the lush greenery, and the rare thrill 
of spotting tapirs and toucans deep in 
the forest.
 
Celestial glow 
Nestled within the misty, emerald 
foothills of the Tenorio Volcano 
National Park, Rio Celeste offers 
a surreal escape into a primary 
rainforest that feels untouched by 
time. This region is globally renowned 
for its celestial turquoise waters — a 
rare natural phenomenon caused by 
volcanic minerals reflecting  
the sunlight.
Cathedral of green 
The true magic lies in the dense 
canopy of ancient trees draped in 
bromeliads, wild orchids, and hanging 
moss, creating a cool, prehistoric 
atmosphere. This lush corridor 
serves as a sanctuary for some of 
Costa Rica’s most iconic wildlife. 
Lucky observers may cross paths 
with elusive tapirs or spot three-toed 
sloths, howler monkeys, and vibrant 
keel-billed toucans.
 
Adventures in the Azure
Mystical landmarks: Inside the park, 
hike along trails to reveal breathtaking 
landmarks like the thundering Rio 
Celeste Waterfall and “Los Teñideros,” 
the mystical confluence where two 
clear rivers merge to create the 
water’s signature blue hue.
River immersion: Beyond the park’s 
boundaries, just downstream, where 
conservation restrictions lift, guests 
can immerse themselves in the cool 
currents for a refreshing swim or 
embark on an adrenaline-filled tubing 
excursion down the azure rapids.
Nocturnal connections: When the  
sun sets, the forest transforms once 
more; guided night tours reveal a 
hidden world of red-eyed tree frogs 
and other nocturnal creatures, 
offering a complete and immersive 
connection to one of Costa Rica’s most 
enchanting ecosystems.
Rio Celeste: An Immersion in Nature’s Magic
COSTA RICA
GREEN HEIGHTS & TURQUOISE DEPTHS
Rio Celeste waterfall
Tubing on 
the river

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