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Costa Rica · Your next adventure

Tubing at the Rio Celeste Magical Blue River

Arenal ・ Arenal Zone 2 ・ Central Guanacaste ・ Tamarindo ・ Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo

Your experience

Good to Know

Plunge into a surreal tubing adventure on Costa Rica's Rio Celeste, renowned for its striking electric-blue waters flowing through the lush Tenorio Volcano National Park. This guided excursion offers a thrilling mix of gentle currents and Class I-II rapids, balancing adrenaline with serene immersion in the tropical rainforest. While the river's signature hue is a natural phenomenon dependent on weather, the journey promises an unforgettable connection with nature and opportunities for wildlife spotting. It's an ideal experience for adventure seekers and nature lovers aged 5 and up.


About the tour

Tubing at Rio Celeste in Costa Rica offers an exhilarating and unique adventure amid the breathtaking natural beauty of the country. Rio Celeste, known for its striking blue color, is a stunning river flowing through the lush rainforests of Tenorio Volcano National Park, and on through the rural countryside, in the northern region of Costa Rica. The park is renowned for its captivating landscapes, including the iconic celestial blue river, created by a unique natural phenomenon involving the convergence of two mineral-rich streams.

During the tubing experience, visitors get to ride along the gentle currents of the river while surrounded by the rich biodiversity of the tropical rainforest. As you float downstream, you can immerse yourself in the tranquil ambiance, listening to the symphony of birdsong and the gentle rustle of leaves. The lush greenery and towering trees overhead create a canopy that adds to the sense of being embraced by nature.

The tubing journey offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation, making it suitable for ages 5+ and experience levels. You can take in the mesmerizing scenery as you navigate through serene sections of the river, which allows for moments of reflection and connection with the environment.

As you venture further downstream, the river's turquoise waters reveal their true magic, reflecting the vibrant colors of the surrounding flora. The sight of the dazzling blue hue against the backdrop of the dense rainforest is nothing short of awe-inspiring. The striking visual contrast creates an otherworldly experience that remains etched in the memory of every traveler fortunate enough to witness it.

Beyond the natural beauty, tubing at Rio Celeste also offers opportunities to spot various wildlife species that call this pristine ecosystem home. Keep an eye out for tropical birds soaring above, playful monkeys swinging through the treetops, and if you're lucky, glimpses of elusive wildlife hidden along the riverbanks.

The tubing adventure is complemented by the presence of experienced guides who accompany you throughout the journey. These knowledgeable guides not only ensure your safety but also share fascinating insights about the local flora and fauna, as well as the geological wonders that shape this unique landscape.

Tubing at Rio Celeste is a thrilling way to connect with nature and immerse yourself in the unique landscapes that make Costa Rica a truly exceptional destination for outdoor enthusiasts. It's an experience that blends the excitement of river tubing with the wonder of exploring a world-class natural wonder, leaving visitors with memories of a lifetime and a deeper appreciation for the wonders of the natural world. Whether you are an adventure seeker, a nature lover, or simply seeking a rejuvenating escape, tubing at Rio Celeste promises an unforgettable journey through one of Costa Rica's most enchanting locations.

Please note that the watercolor may be diluted or even tan in color following heavy rains, so the magical blue colors are not guaranteed. Also note that this tour may take up to an hour and a half of driving in each direction, though often less, depending on the location of your hotel. In total, the expected amount of time including transportation is around 5 hours but there are a variety of things that can change the expected time, due to the location and logistics of the activity.

What to Bring

Comfortable clothing, swimming suit, camera, bug spray, hiking shoes, sunscreen, binoculars, extra clothes.

Includes

Transportation, lunch, water bottle, guide and entrance fee.

Restrictions

5+ yo

Location and Availability

Available in: Arenal, Arenal Zone 2, Central Guanacaste, Tamarindo, Playa Hermosa, Coco, Southern Papagayo

Tour space is generally available when requested more than two days in advance and remains subject to confirmation.

Tour Times

07:30

Tour Type

  • Adventure
  • Rafting
Explore the location on the map

Location

Latitude: N 10° 43' 2.93" (10.717481)
Longitude: W 84° 56' 46.47" (-84.946243)

Recent Reviews

Overall
98%
Expectations
98%
Experience
99%
Guides
100%
Logistics
97%
Value
98%

Gerald B.

Had a great driver to the tour. He stopped and showed us some wildlife. The guide for the tubing was great and had great control. Enjoyed this tour much more than I expected.

Alison L.

This was our favorite activity of the entire trip. Our kids (age 6 and 10) had so much fun, they didn't want it to end. While we were floating we saw a sloth and howler monkeys. Our guide really made this a special day for our kids, they loved talking with him, and watching him do a backflip at the rope swing was pretty awesome.
Our tour guide was excellent and knowledgeable. Due to a glitch in drop off location we ended up with a private tour- which was great. They are doing many upgrades to the location which enhanced the tour. The fruit afterwards was a nice touch.

Before you go

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Rio Celeste unique for tubing?

Rio Celeste is renowned for its striking electric-blue waters, a natural optical phenomenon caused by the convergence of mineral-rich streams within the lush rainforests of Tenorio Volcano National Park in Costa Rica.


What is included in the Rio Celeste tubing tour?

The tour includes transportation, lunch, a water bottle, an experienced guide, and the entrance fee. All necessary safety gear, such as helmets, life vests, and high-quality tubes, are also provided.


Are there any age restrictions for the Rio Celeste tubing adventure?

Yes, participants must be 5 years old or older to join the Rio Celeste tubing adventure.


Can the magical blue color of Rio Celeste be guaranteed?

No, the river's signature turquoise hue is a natural optical phenomenon heavily dependent on weather. Heavy rains can temporarily diminish the color, dilute it, or turn the water clear, though the thrill of the ride remains.


The people behind your vacation

Personal service from Pacific Trade Winds

Make this tour part of your Costa Rica vacation

Request a vacation package including Tubing at the Rio Celeste Magical Blue River.