Why is Rio Celeste such a secret?
Tourism in Costa Rica has only started to hit its stride in the last decade or so. Only recently have tourists started to take advantage of the natural wonders that Northern Costa Rica has to offer. Since Rio Celeste is located north of the main tourism center, La Fortuna, Rio Celeste still attracts very few visitors, meaning that a very tranquil hike in the woods is in store for the folks who are willing to make the trek off the beaten path up to Guatuso.
The light blue river, a winding body of water surrounded by stunning rainforest in the Tenorio Volcano National Park, sports one of Costa Rica's most beautiful waterfalls, natural hot springs, as well as the unique phenomenon of clear water turning blue by means of a volcanic chemical reaction. (Yes, it's really that blue.) They say that sulphur emitted from volcanic activity below mixes with calcium carbonate to make the pretty light blue.
I say: Magic!!!
The center of Guatuso, San Rafael, is a mere hour bus ride from La Fortuna. From La Fortuna, take the 6:40 AM bus to Upala. (it is so important to get to Rio Celeste early in the day.) The Upala bus will arrive in Guatuso at around 8:00 AM, leaving you right in the center of town where you can hail a taxi to take you to the Tenorio Volcano National Park entrance.
At the park entrance, pay an entrance fee of $6 US in 2006 prices. After you're done with your hike in the afternoon, you can either stay in the Rio Celeste area or you can head back to Guatuso to spend the night. Just be aware that the last bus goes back to Guatuso by 1 PM, so if you want to get back the same day, you'll likely need to take a taxi back.
More information here.
Another link with directions and hours HERE.
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