San José (SJO) to Río Celeste (Tenorio Volcano NP)

Río Celeste is the impossibly turquoise river in Tenorio Volcano National Park, and the waterfall at its heart is one of the most photographed sights in Costa Rica. From San José, the easiest way is along Route 27 and Route 1 to Cañas, then north on Route 6 to the village of Bijagua.

Expect about 3h 45m to 4h 30m. The road is paved to near the park entrance; the final approach can have rough patches. An SUV is recommended, but most sedans get there fine in dry weather.

Step-by-step directions

1. 1

   Route 27 and Route 1 to Cañas

   Take Route 27 to the coast and Route 1 north to Cañas.

2. 2

   Route 6 north to Bijagua

   In Cañas turn right onto Route 6 toward Upala. The road climbs between the Tenorio and Miravalles volcanoes.

3. 3

   Bijagua to the park entrance

   Follow signs for Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio / Río Celeste. The road is paved most of the way to the ranger station.

Tolls, fuel & road facts

Hazards to know before you go

• Fog and rain around Bijagua, which sits between two volcanoes.
• The trail to the waterfall is steep with many stairs — wear real shoes.
• The river's blue color fades after heavy rain; mornings in dry season are best.

Stops worth making

• Cañas

  Fuel, supermarkets and lunch before heading north.

• Bijagua

  Small town with lodges, sodas and a tapir-spotting reputation.

Local tips

• Buy park tickets online in advance; entry times are limited and swimming in the river is prohibited.
• Combine with La Fortuna: it's about 1.5–2 hours between them.
• Plan to arrive before dark (about 5:45–6:15 pm year-round). Rural roads have no lighting, few shoulders, and pedestrians, cyclists and animals on the road.