Río Celeste Full Day Pass: Tubing and Horseback Riding
Rating: 4.5/5 (based on 5 reviews)
Price: $124.50 per person
Location: La Fortuna, Costa Rica
Duration: Approximately 6 hours
Supplier: Steven Mauricio Vargas Sánchez
Contact: +50689562227 | [email protected]
Travelers eager to explore Costa Rica’s natural beauty often dream of the vibrant, otherworldly hues of Río Celeste. This full-day experience combines horseback riding, tubing down the river, swimming in natural pools, and sharing the rainforest with farm animals — a blend of adventure and tranquility wrapped into a single memorable day.
Two features truly stand out for us: first, the chance to see wildlife like sloths, monkeys, and a variety of birds in their natural habitat, making the journey more authentic. Second, the delicious à la carte lunch at an elegant restaurant offers a relaxing break amid the lush surroundings.
However, a potential caveat is the booking process, which has received some mixed reviews. One traveler noted difficulties with reserved time slots not being honored, and delays that affected their plans. So, if your schedule is tight, it’s worth confirming your reservation well in advance.
This tour is perfect for nature lovers, adventurers, and families seeking a full day of outdoor fun. If you’re comfortable with guided activities and enjoy wildlife spotting, you’ll likely find this experience rewarding.
Key Points

- Authentic rainforest experience: Includes wildlife sightings, river swimming, and farm animals.
- Balanced adventure: Combines horseback riding with tubing, offering a variety of activities.
- Includes a quality meal: A tasty, customizable lunch at an elegant restaurant enhances the day.
- Potential booking hiccups: Be sure to confirm your reservation well ahead of time.
- Great for wildlife enthusiasts: Early reports of sloth sightings and bird watching make this a nature-centered trip.
- Safety and comfort: Both tubing and horseback riding are designed for most travelers, with safety gear provided.
A closer look at the Río Celeste Full Day Pass Experience
.jpg)
While in La Fortuna, here are other experiences we've covered
The Setting: Río Celeste and Its Enchanting Hues
Río Celeste is renowned for its stunning, surreal blue color, caused by a natural chemical reaction, making it one of Costa Rica’s most visually arresting sights. This tour provides a chance to experience this natural wonder up close, along with the rainforest environment that surrounds it. The day begins at a meeting point near La Fortuna, conveniently accessible for travelers based in this popular area.
The Itinerary: A Thoughtfully Curated Mix of Activities
The tour’s core activities are horseback riding and tubing, each lasting about an hour and a half. The horseback riding takes you through scenic trails, where well-trained horses respond smoothly to your commands — whether you’re an experienced rider or a beginner. It’s a calming way to connect with nature and enjoy the lush landscape.
The tubing segment offers a fun, relaxing float down gentle rapids, surrounded by rainforest. Travelers have reported seeing wildlife — one reviewer happily mentioned spotting their first sloth during the ride — adding a layer of excitement to the activity. The tubing is done safely in designated areas with all necessary gear, making it suitable for most ages.
After each activity, you can cool off in a fully conditioned natural pool — a perfect place for a refreshing swim and to unwind. The water is kept safe for swimming, so you won’t need to worry about the conditions, and the tranquil setting provides a peaceful escape.
Wildlife and Farm Animals: Close Encounters
One of the highlights, as noted by reviewers, is the chance to share time with farm animals and observe rainforest creatures. It’s a gentle reminder of Costa Rica’s rich biodiversity, and guides are typically knowledgeable about spotting and explaining wildlife behaviors.
The Culinary Break: A Tasty, Customizable Lunch
No full-day adventure is complete without good food. The tour includes a delicious à la carte lunch at an elegant restaurant, giving you a chance to relax and refuel. The menu allows for some choice, accommodating different tastes, which guests appreciate after a morning of activity.
While in La Fortuna, here are other experiences we've covered
Authenticity and Guides
Reviewers rave about the guides’ expertise and friendliness, which greatly enhances the experience. One guide named Jimmy received praise for his engaging manner, making the activities even more enjoyable. Their local knowledge adds depth to the journey, especially when spotting wildlife or explaining the rainforest’s features.
Booking, Cost, and Value
Priced at $124.50 per person, this tour offers several activities bundled into one day. While the price might seem steep, the inclusion of meals, equipment, and the variety of experiences provides solid value — especially considering the potential for wildlife encounters and the scenic beauty.
It’s advisable to book about 24 days in advance, as demand is high, and you’ll want to secure your preferred time slot to avoid surprises like the one reviewer experienced.
Considerations and Tips
- Confirm reservations early to minimize the risk of scheduling mishaps.
- Wear comfortable clothing suitable for water activities and warm weather.
- Bring waterproof gear or dry bags for your valuables during tubing.
- Be prepared for a full day outdoors, so sun protection and insect repellent are wise.
Who should consider this tour?
.jpg)
This experience suits those who love outdoor adventures with a natural twist, especially wildlife enthusiasts and families with curious children. If you’re looking for a well-rounded day that combines gentle adventure, wildlife spotting, and good food, this tour hits the mark. It also appeals to travelers who appreciate guides who are both knowledgeable and friendly.
Final thoughts
.jpg)
This Río Celeste tour offers a well-considered mix of adventure, wildlife, and relaxation, all set in a stunning rainforest setting. While there have been some booking hiccups reported, the overall experience is highly regarded, especially for those eager to connect with nature in Costa Rica’s lush landscapes.
You’ll enjoy riding gentle horses, floating down the river, cooling off in natural pools, and sharing the rainforest with the flora and fauna. The inclusion of a tasty lunch rounds out the day, making it a full, satisfying experience.
If you’re a traveler craving authentic rainforest encounters combined with gentle adventure activities, this tour will likely be a highlight of your Costa Rican journey. Just remember to confirm your reservation, dress appropriately, and bring your sense of curiosity and adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
.jpg)
Will I see wildlife during this tour?
Yes, wildlife sightings are common, including sloths, monkeys, and various bird species. Guides are knowledgeable about spotting and explaining animal behaviors.
How long do each activity last?
Both horseback riding and tubing last about 1 hour and 30 minutes, giving enough time to enjoy each without feeling rushed.
Is the river swimming area safe?
Absolutely. The natural pool is fully conditioned and designed for safe swimming, providing a refreshing break during the activities.
Are meals included?
Yes, a delicious, customizable à la carte lunch is part of the package, along with a fruit snack after each activity.
Do I need private transportation?
Transportation is not included, so you’ll meet at the designated starting point near the hotel. Some travelers arrange their own transport.
Is this tour suitable for children or less experienced riders?
Most travelers can participate, and the horses are well-trained. As always, children should be supervised, and beginners can enjoy the guided horseback riding.
This tour truly makes for a day packed with natural beauty, gentle adventure, and authentic wildlife encounters. For those wanting to experience Río Celeste beyond just viewing it from afar, it offers a balanced taste of what Costa Rica’s rainforest has to offer—peaceful, lively, and full of surprises.
More Full-Day in La Fortuna
- Full-Day Arenal Inspirations Combo: Waterfall, Bridges, Volcano
- Arenal Full Day Tour
- Full-Day Top 3 Activities Tour in Arenal La Fortuna
- Full day Tour with Hanging Bridges, Waterfall and Volcano Hike
- Arenal Best 4 Attractions (Full day – Combo) Incl. Lunch & Dinner
- Skip the Line: Mineral Hot Springs Full Day Ticket w/ Optional Lunch or Dinner
More Horses in La Fortuna
More Tour Reviews in La Fortuna
- Pure Trek Canyoning, Arenal Volcano Hike & Hot Springs
- Flora & Fauna Garden at Danaus EcoCenter
- Best combination: Rafting level III with canyoning in waterfalls with tarzan swing , the nearest San Jose
- Danaus Park butterfly garden self-guided Day Pass 7.15am-5pm
- Private Transfer from La Fortuna to Juan Santa Maria Airport
- Choyín Thermal River & Hot Springs
More La Fortuna experiences we've covered
- Pure Trek Canyoning, Arenal Volcano Hike & Hot Springs
- Flora & Fauna Garden at Danaus EcoCenter
- Best combination: Rafting level III with canyoning in waterfalls with tarzan swing , the nearest San Jose
- Danaus Park butterfly garden self-guided Day Pass 7.15am-5pm
- Private Transfer from La Fortuna to Juan Santa Maria Airport
- Choyín Thermal River & Hot Springs
- ARENAL DISCOVERY ADVENTURE (2): Safari Float, Waterfall & Lunch
- Birdwatching at Mundo Aventura Natural Park
- Horseback Riding at Volcano foothills + La Fortuna Waterfall
- Sloth & Wildlife Nature Walk
- Birdwatching by the Lake Arenal
- Tubing along the Celeste River
