RIO CELESTE COMBO : River Tubing+Blue Waterfall+Animal Sanctuary.

Experience the Best of Costa Rica’s Rainforest with the Rio Celeste Combo Tour

If you’re after a full-day adventure that combines nature, activity, and unforgettable wildlife encounters, the Rio Celeste Combo tour from La Fortuna might just be your perfect match. For $145 per person, you get a well-rounded experience lasting around 10 to 11 hours, packed with hiking, tubing, and wildlife spotting. Including hotel pickup and a traditional local lunch, it’s designed for those who want an active, authentic taste of Costa Rica’s lush rainforest.

What we love about this tour is its variety—it’s not just about gazing at a stunning waterfall, though you’ll definitely do that, but also about moving through the rainforest, floating down a river with incredible blue waters, and meeting some of the country’s unique animals, like sloths and colorful frogs. Plus, the guides seem to really know their stuff, making the whole day both fun and educational.

A potential consideration? Since the tour involves some moderate physical activity, including a walk with over 200 steps at the waterfall, it’s best suited for travelers with a decent level of fitness. Also, because it’s a long day with some driving, those looking for a more relaxed experience might prefer shorter excursions.

This tour is ideal for adventurous families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone eager to see Costa Rica’s rainforests from a local perspective. If you’re curious about the flora and fauna, and enjoy active outings, you’ll find this trip offers great value and plenty of memorable moments.

Key Points

• Comprehensive Experience: Combines rainforest hike, river tubing, wildlife spotting, and waterfall viewing.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides are praised for their friendliness and expertise, enhancing the experience.
• Good Value: For $145, you receive transportation, lunch, activities, and wildlife encounters—covering a lot in one day.
• Active Day: Expect walking, hiking, and tubing; a moderate fitness level is recommended.
• Authentic Encounters: Visit a local animal sanctuary and see species like sloths, frogs, and exotic birds.
• Beautiful Scenery: The highlight is the famous Rio Celeste waterfall with its striking blue waters.

A Detailed Look at the Rio Celeste Combo Tour

Setting the Scene: La Fortuna and the Rainforest

Starting from La Fortuna, the tour transports you into the heart of Costa Rica’s rainforest, on a private, air-conditioned vehicle. The drive itself is an experience—passing through landscapes dotted with citrus, pineapple, and cashew trees, giving you a taste of Costa Rica’s agricultural richness. The long but scenic ride sets the tone for a day of discovery.

Stop 1: Tenorio Volcano National Park and the Blue Waterfall

The first stop is the Tenorio Volcano National Park, home to the impressive Rio Celeste waterfall. Here, guidance begins with a walk through lush trails, providing a chance to observe the rainforest’s flora and fauna. The highlight is definitely the turquoise-blue waterfall, created by a natural chemical reaction, making it one of Costa Rica’s most photographed spots.

Reviews frequently mention the steep staircase—over 240 steps—that leads up to the waterfall. While some find this a bit challenging, many appreciate that it’s a manageable walk with stunning views at the top. As one traveler put it, “The hike to the waterfall was good and we saw an entire group of monkeys.” The scenery is worth the effort, with dense greenery framing the iconic cascade.

Stop 2: River Tubing Down Rio Celeste

Next is the river tubing experience, which is what many travelers look forward to most. The tubing segment lasts about 1.5 hours, during which you float down the beautifully blue waters of the Rio Celeste. The water’s color—caused by natural mineral deposits—is so vivid it looks surreal.

Guides typically stop at several points to let you swim and enjoy regional snacks, like fresh fruit. Many reviews sing the praises of the tubing, describing it as “spectacular,” and one quote highlights how “floating down the river in such a beautiful color was an experience I’ll never forget.” If you’re into water adventures, this part of the tour feels like a magical way to cool off in the rainforest.

Stop 3: Animal Sanctuary and Wildlife Viewing

The tour then pauses at Spring Paradise Bijagua Tours, a sanctuary that’s notable for its focus on local wildlife. Here, guides are praised for their knowledge and enthusiasm in pointing out creatures like sloths, frogs, exotic birds, and monkeys.

Some reviews mention exceptionally close encounters, with one reviewer stating, “The guide found so many amazing animals and amphibians for us to see.” The sanctuary isn’t just a zoo; it’s a chance to observe Costa Rica’s biodiversity in a natural setting. Expect to see at least two types of sloths, brightly colored frogs, and perhaps a glimpse of a snake or viper.

Stop 4: Árbol de la Paz and Scenic Photos

On the way back, there’s a quick stop at the Arbol de la Paz—a 500-year-old tree that’s a symbolic and scenic landmark. Travelers love capturing photos here, appreciating the scale and history of this impressive tree. It’s a peaceful moment to reflect on the day and take some memorable shots.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The combination of activities is what makes this trip special. The guided rainforest walk introduces you to the lush environment and wildlife, while the river tubing offers a refreshing, hands-on experience of Costa Rica’s unique waters. The animal sanctuary visit emphasizes the country’s conservation efforts and gives you a chance to see creatures that rarely come this close in the wild.

Guides like Alonso and Wilton consistently earn praise for their knowledge, friendliness, and enthusiasm. Their ability to share insights about wildlife, point out snakes, and keep everyone engaged makes all the difference. Many reviewers note that their guides “went above and beyond,” ensuring that everyone, from young children to adults, felt included and informed.

Value for money is another strong point. For $145, you get transportation, multiple activities, a hearty local lunch, regional fruits, and guided wildlife encounters. When you compare this to the cost of separate excursions, it’s a good deal that covers a lot of ground.

Practical Considerations and Tips

Since the tour involves about 200 steps at the waterfall and some walking on uneven trails, it’s wise to wear comfortable hiking shoes and bring a raincoat—weather can change quickly in the rainforest. Don’t forget your swimsuit and towel if you want to take full advantage of the tubing and swimming stops.

Given the long day and the driving involved, this tour suits travelers with a moderate level of fitness and those eager for a full immersion in nature. It’s also perfect for families and wildlife lovers, as reviews consistently highlight the rich wildlife sightings and family-friendly activities.

The Sum Up

The Rio Celeste Combo tour offers a well-rounded, engaging, and value-packed experience for those wanting to see the best of Costa Rica’s rainforest. The combination of adventure, nature, and wildlife encounters makes it ideal for active travelers who want to experience the country’s natural beauty firsthand.

The guides’ expertise and the stunning scenery elevate this trip from just a list of activities to a truly memorable day. While it’s a full schedule, many say it’s worth every effort, especially if you love wildlife, water adventures, and vibrant landscapes.

This tour is best suited for adventurous families, wildlife enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates a day filled with natural wonders and authentic Costa Rican culture. If you’re looking for a well-organized, comprehensive day that combines activity with education, this combo provides excellent value and plenty of stories to take home.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs approximately 10 to 11 hours, including transportation and all activities.

Is transportation included?
Yes, roundtrip air-conditioned transportation from La Fortuna is provided.

What should I bring?
Bring extra clothes, swimsuit, towel, raincoat, and comfortable walking shoes suitable for uneven terrain and steps.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, many reviews mention families enjoying the experience. The activities are family-friendly, but children should be able to handle some walking and steps.

Do I need to be physically fit?
A moderate fitness level is recommended due to walking, hiking, and stepping at the waterfall.

What wildlife might I see?
Expect to spot sloths, frogs, exotic birds, monkeys, and possibly snakes or vipers.

Is lunch included?
Yes, a typical local lunch and regional fruits are provided mid-day.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the activity, with full refunds.

Are guides bilingual?
Yes, guides are certified and speak both English and Spanish, ensuring clear communication.

Embark on this adventure if you’re craving a day immersed in Costa Rica’s vibrant rainforest, with plenty of exciting activities and wildlife encounters—it’s a day you’ll be talking about long after you leave.