Río Celeste

If you're looking for a natural wonder that will take your breath away, look no further than Rio Celeste in Costa Rica. This mystical river is located within the Tenorio Volcano National Park, and its brilliant blue waters are a sight to behold. But there's more to Rio Celeste than just its stunning beauty – it's also steeped in legend and mystery, making it a fascinating destination to explore.

The legend of Rio Celeste goes that it was created by the gods as a sign of their power and majesty. The water is said to have been colored blue by the celestial paintbrushes of the gods, who used the river to wash their brushes after painting the sky. While the actual explanation for the river's unique color is scientific, it's easy to see why the legend endures – the sight of the river is truly awe-inspiring.

The blue color of Rio Celeste is caused by a rare natural phenomenon that occurs when two rivers, the Buena Vista and Roble, converge and mix. The water from each river contains minerals and chemicals that, when mixed, create a reaction that causes the water to turn bright blue. The result is a river that looks like it was lifted straight from a fantasy world.

While the river is the star attraction of the Tenorio Volcano National Park, there is plenty to explore in the surrounding area. You can take a hike through the lush rainforest to see the park's diverse flora and fauna, including monkeys, toucans, and jaguars. There are several hiking trails that lead to viewpoints overlooking the river, providing breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the most popular hikes in the area is the trail to the waterfall, where you can see the water tumbling over the rocks and crashing into a pool below. The waterfall is surrounded by lush vegetation and provides a tranquil spot to rest and take in the beauty of the area.

Another popular activity in the area is soaking in the natural hot springs, which are heated by the geothermal activity in the area. The hot springs are a perfect way to relax after a long day of hiking and exploring, and the mineral-rich water is said to have therapeutic benefits.

In conclusion, Rio Celeste is a natural wonder that is not to be missed if you're visiting Costa Rica. The river's mystical blue waters are a sight to behold, and the surrounding rainforest provides a fascinating ecosystem to explore. So, put on your hiking shoes, pack your swimsuit, and get ready to experience the beauty and mystery of Rio Celeste. (Click the picture to see the video)

NOTE: Swimming in the park itself if forbidden. The spot to swim in Rio Celeste is a bit further down the road of the parks entree.