Tag Archives: Travel and Tourism

Road Trip to Rio Celeste, Costa Rica

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We recently took JC’s Journeys on the road for a few days to explore some other areas and share what we found with our followers. One of our planned stops: Rio Celeste. This was an enticing place to start our journey as all we really knew about it before arriving was that the turquoise colored water flowing through this river was a sight not to be missed. Here are 3 points we’d like to share for your visit to Rio Celeste.

Where to StartRoad to Rio Celeste

There are a few ways to get to Tenorio Volcano National Park. Rio Celeste is in this park which is fairly easy to navigate. We started out from Florencia in San Carlos and headed northwest. A popular route for most tourists would likely be starting out from La Fortuna, the town near Arenal Volcano. Taking Route 4 leads you to an entrance after about an hour and a half, which becomes a dirt road for several (around 20) kilometers. You’ll pass pineapple plantations and lots of other fields of fruit along the way. A 4×4 vehicle is recommended as this part of the road was pretty bumpy and a little steep and rocky in a couple parts. Continue along this road and you’ll reach the entrance where there’s parking, a restaurant and souvenir shop.

What to Take

Rio Celeste is located in a rainforest, so… take rain gear! We arrived when the park opened early in the morning and there were downpours just hours before. Needless to say, the trail was a little muddy. But nothing a good pair of closed tennis shoes or hiking shoes can’t handle. Rubber boots are offered for rent at the entrance, but small children’s sizes were not available, and boots actually seemed to make the hike more challenging anyway. A rain jacket or quick drying clothes are a good idea, as well as an extra pair of shoes or flip flops for when your shoes are muddy and wet.  Also take a hat, mosquito repellent as always, and lots of water, even though it’s wet it can get very humid, so be sure to hydrate! Always a good idea to pack a snack or lunch also, even though there are places at the entrance to eat, as well as small sodas (restaurants) on the road leading to the entrance.

Steps to WaterfallHikes and Guides

At the entrance you’ll probably be offered a guide for about $30. If you’re not an experienced hiker, never been to Costa Rica, or just would like some extra guidance and learn about nature and the area, this is a great idea. However, if your main goal is to see the cool blue river, you can probably do OK on your own. If you have small children or elderly members in your group, there’s a beautiful waterfall maybe just 1 km from the entrance and down a great deal of stairs. This is a great option as there’s not too much ‘hiking’ involved, and the waterfall is still a beautiful sight (however it is a steep climb back UP the stairs). To see the point where two rivers merge to create the chemical reaction that turns the water the deep blue hue, you’ll have to hike a bit longer. From the waterfall, it’s about another 45 minute hike, moderate incline, through some pretty deep muddy spots. Don’t be afraid to just tread through the mud, it’ll make your hike a lot faster, and you can hose off your shoes at the entrance. Do be careful along the edges, as some spots can drop off pretty steeply and there are no ropes or railing.

Here’s a peek at our experience. We hope you’ll make it there on your next trip to Costa Rica. If you need any other advice, feel free to post in the comments below and we’ll share our knowledge. 🙂

5 Reasons We Love Low Season in Costa Rica

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It’s the first of May and the rain has finally started to fall on the thirsty southern Nicoya Peninsula. The rain is right on time with the beginning of ‘low season’ for tourism in Costa Rica, which runs roughly from May to October. While the mad rush of tourism may be slowing down, ‘low season’ may actually be the best time to visit. Here are 5 reasons we love the low season in CR and think you might enjoy it too.

1. Bird Lover's Morning - WoodpeckerBird Watching – There is still plenty of bird watching to do during this time and while some of the migrating species may not be visible, there are many resident birds you can easily spot. (Tip: Arenal area is great for viewing Toucans year around, and JC is happy to help novice birders spot them or any other birds on your viewing checklist.)

2. Less Crowded – Since the rush is over, there’s a more tranquil atmosphere especially in beach towns. Fewer people are jamming into the small towns and stealing the quiet away from your relaxing vacation.

3. Cooler Climate – In some regions like the southern Nicoya Peninsula and Guanacaste areas, it is HOT during Costa Rica’s summer. Low season brings rain and cooler temperatures so you can enjoy the outdoors without the heat. Just pack your rain gear and you’ll love the respite from the heat. Rain also means greener, more beautiful landscapes for these drier regions of the country. Don’t worry, if you’re looking for sunshine you’ll still get plenty here.

4. Deals – Hotels usually offer cheaper rates for low season, or shoulder seasons and who doesn’t love a good deal? Many tour operators also offer cheaper rates on activities, however you should consider that many tours require a minimum number of participants to run the tour, and since there are fewer tourists around, it may be difficult to book these. As an alternative, you can take a private tour or hire a private guide for slightly more than a group tour. The benefit is that you’ll get more personal attention, probably get to see more, and you’ve likely already saved some money on your hotel stay.

5. Connect with Locals – It’s quieter, less crowded and not as busy, so that means you get a little one on one time with locals. Take advantage of it and strike up a conversation with local restaurant and store owners. You can always find out lots of interesting information you wouldn’t find in a guide book or brochure this way. (If you’re a little shy, we can help you connect with locals on our “Let’s Get Local” tour.)