Name: Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour
SKU: 17279P13
Availability: InStock
Rating: 4.6 (1193 reviews)

WizardTrip

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

4.6(1.2 k)· Tamarindo· By Native's Way Costa Rica Watch the video

Free cancellation

From

€123per person

1 to 15 travelers per booking.

Options3 of 3 available on this day

Time

1 × Adult × €340.61€340.61

Total€340.61

About the activity

Llanos de Cortes Waterfall To start your day, we will take you to Llanos de Cortes Waterfall in Bagaces, where you can relax and take a swim at the falls or walk around exploring the flora and fauna. Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike - Tenorio Volcano National Park Upon arriving at the entrance, you will go on a 2 hour moderately difficult hike in the park. You will walk through the rainforest and along the Celeste River where you can observe one of nature's most intriguing phenomenon. Organic Farm - Sloth and Frog Sanctuary After lunch, take a tour on a rural organic farm! You will be taken on an inspiring and educational walk, showcasing natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and many more animals that inhabit the farm.

What's included

✓Hotel pickup and drop-off
✓Driver/guide
✓Lunch
✓National park fees
✓Professional bilingual guide

What is not included

✕Gratuities
✕Round Trip Transport from Andaz, Planet Hollywood, Fours Seasons, Waldorf Astoria, Catalinas
✕JW Marriott/Pinilla Pick Up Fee

Itinerary

1
Cataratas Llanos de Cortes
Discover the hidden gem of Llanos de Cortez Waterfall, tucked away amidst the pristine landscapes of the Guanacaste region. As you make your way through the tropical forest, the sound of cascading water grows louder, signaling your arrival at this natural marvel. The sight of the waterfall is nothing short of breathtaking, with its crystal-clear waters tumbling over moss-covered rocks into a tranquil pool below. Take a refreshing dip in the cool waters, surrounded by lush greenery and the symphony of nature. Relax on the sandy shores, bask in the warm sun, and revel in the serenity of this secluded paradise. It's the perfect conclusion to a day filled with adventure and exploration.
· 1 h· Admission included
2
Rio Celeste
You will begin your hike within the pristine confines of Tenorio Volcano National Park, first heading to the mesmerizing Rio Celeste Waterfall, where the crystalline waters cascade gracefully down a rugged cliff face, creating a scene of unparalleled beauty. You'll embark on a guided hike on trails that meander through the dense rainforest, enveloped by a symphony of exotic bird calls. Your knowledgeable guide will share insights into the rich biodiversity of the region, pointing out unique plant species & wildlife that call this pristine wilderness home. As you approach the waterfall, you'll be stunned by the majestic cascade of turquoise-hued water tumbling dramatically into a tranquil pool below. Stand in awe of this natural spectacle, feeling the cool mist and the sheer power of nature. Take your time to savor this moment, capturing photographs of this unique hidden gem from various angles. Please be aware, on rare occasions the river may be brown due to heavy rains
· 2 h· Admission included
3
Jungle Life Sloth Sanctuary
After immersing yourself in the breathtaking beauty of Rio Celeste, our journey continues to the Jungle Life Sloth Sanctuary, where you'll have the rare opportunity to encounter these endearing creatures up close. Nestled within the verdant rainforest, the sanctuary provides a safe haven for sloths rescued from various situations. Learn about their behaviors, habits, and the conservation efforts aimed at protecting them as you observe these fascinating animals in their natural habitat. Your guide will also showcase natural wonders such as tropical plants, flowers, birds, sloths, frogs, snakes, insects and more!
· 1 h· Admission included
4
Bijagua de Upala
Indulge in a hearty Costa Rican meal at a local restaurant, where you'll savor traditional dishes bursting with flavor. Enjoy staples like gallo pinto (rice and beans), plantains, savory meats, and fresh tropical fruits, providing a delicious taste of Costa Rica's culinary delights.
· 1 h
5
Tamarindo Beach
6:30 am
· Non-stop passage
6
Native's Way
After pick up from your hotel, house or condo (see pick up areas), you will stop for coffee and/or breakfast, you will be driven 3 hours to Tenorio Volcano National Park.
· Non-stop passage
7
Playa Langosta
6:20 am
· Non-stop passage
8
Playa Conchal
6:40 am
· Non-stop passage
9
Playa Matapalo
RIU Guancaste/Palace 6:45 am
· Non-stop passage
10
Tamarindo
6:30 am
· Non-stop passage
11
Playas del Coco
7:20 am
· Non-stop passage
12
Playa Panama
7:40 am
· Non-stop passage
13
Playa Flamingo
6:30 am
· Non-stop passage
14
Playa Hermosa
7:40 am
· Non-stop passage

How to use your ticket

Mobile or paper ticket accepted. One per booking

Meeting point and return

7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)

Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:30 am.

Tamarindo Hotels/Houses & Condos - 6:30 AM

Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:15 am.

Hilton Garden Inn, Liberia - 8:30 AM

Liberia Peri Supermarket - 8:40 AM

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood - 7:00 am ($70 transport fee per booking, not per person) - billed separately

Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 7:30 am

Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gateand other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 7:30 am

7:20 AM

MAIN SECURITY GATE 6:45 AM

6:30 AM

6:15 AM - ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)

6:30 AM

6:45 AM

6:30 AM

Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM ($50 extra fee per booking, not person - paid separately)

Please let security know we are coming

7:30 AM ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)

Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:30 am.

Tamarindo Hotels/Houses & Condos - 6:30 AM

Meet Guide at 9:00 am at Llanos Del Cortes or at Tenorio Volcano Park Rio Celeste at 11:15 am.

Hilton Garden Inn, Liberia - 8:30 AM

Liberia Peri Supermarket - 8:40 AM

Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood - 7:00 am ($70 transport fee per booking, not per person) - billed separately

Secrets Papagayo Main Gate (not lobby), Mangroove and other Hotels - 7:30 am

Villas Sol Main Gate, Condovac Main Gate, Occidental Papagayo Main Gateand other Hotels, Condos, and Private Houses in Hermosa - 7:30 am

7:20 AM

MAIN SECURITY GATE 6:45 AM

6:30 AM

6:15 AM - ($70 extra per booking, not per customer)

6:30 AM

6:45 AM

6:30 AM

Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM ($50 extra fee per booking, not person - paid separately)

Please let security know we are coming

Tour Picks up from: JW Marriott/Pinilla, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia

SELF DRIVE OPTION: Meet Guide at 9:00 am @ Llanos Del Cortes or 11:15AM @ Tenorio National Park

What to wear:

Rio Celeste Waterfall Hike

- Closed-toed shoes or hiking shoes (moderate hike). Swimming is not permitted at the waterfall.

Llanos de Cortes

- Bathing suit, flip-flops or sandals, and a personal towel

What to Bring:

- A photo of your passport

- Comfortable walking shoes & sandals

- Clothes for warm/sunny AND cooler or rainy weather

- Rain gear/waterproof bag

- Bathing suit

- Towel

- Sunscreen

- Insect repellent

- Change of clothes

- Camera

- Reusable water container

- Ponchos can be purchased at the park entrance

Requirements: Need to provide passport name, number and issuing country before the tour in order for us to purchase national park entrance.

SELF DRIVE OPTION -

You can begin the tour at Llanos de Cortes Waterfall or at Tenorio National Park. You will follow the tour bus throughout the tour to each location in your own vehicle.

- 9:00 am @ Llanos Del Cortes View on map

- 11:15 am Arrival to Tenorio National Park View on map

We Pick up from Hotels, condos and private houses:

We make a stop in the morning on the way to the park for a bathroom break or to buy breakfast if you need to (not included).

- Hacienda Pinilla/JW Marriott: 6:00 AM (extra fee)

- Langosta/Tamarindo: 6:30 AM

- Conchal (W/Westin, Reserva Conchal), Brasilito: 6:45 AM

- Playa Grande, Flamingo, Potrero: 6:30 AM

- Las Catalinas: 6:15 AM (extra fee)

- RIU Hotels Main Security Gate, Not the Lobby: 6:45 AM

- Playas del Coco: 7:20 AM

- Playa Hermosa & Panama

- Main Gate (not lobby) of the following: Occidental Papagayo, Secrets Papagayo, Villas Sol/Condovac 7:30 AM

- Mangroove lobby 7:30 AM

- Liberia Peri Supermarket: 8:30 AM

- Andaz, Four Seasons, Planet Hollywood (Main Gate): 7:20 AM (extra fee)

- Waldorf Astoria: 7:30 AM (extra fee)

Pick up times above are an estimate. We will send you an official pick up time the day before the tour.

Meeting point

Waldorf Astoria Costa Rica Punta Cacique

Playa Penca, Ruta Nacional 159 km 3, Provincia de Guanacaste, Carrillo, 10901, Costa Rica

End point

This activity ends back at the meeting point.

Practical information

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
If your hotel is not listed, contact us for quoting
Due to a new requirement issued by the Ministry of Tourism and the National Park Systems of Costa Rica, we need each person to send us the following information: Full Name on Passport, Passport number, Passport issuing country. You must carry a picture of your passport with you on your tour!

Activity options

Private Transportation & Guide
Private Guide & Transportation: Round trip transport from JW Marriott, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia
Pickup included
Self Drive/Meet at Park
Drive your Own Vehicle : Meet your guide at Catarata Llanos del Cortés & follow our tour bus to Sloth Sanctuary and Tenorio National Park
Starting points:
Catarata Llanos del Cortés, Guanacaste Province, Bagaces, Costa Rica
Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio, Katira centro, Provincia de Alajuela, Guatuso, 21504, Costa Rica
Shared Transportation
Shared Tour & Transport: Round trip transport from JW Marriott, Tamarindo, Langosta, Flamingo, Potrero, RIU Hotels, Coco, Hermosa, Panama, Liberia
Pickup included

Duration

12 h

How to prepare for your experience

Wear comfortable walking shoes and bring a change of clothes.
Don't forget your swimsuit and a towel for the waterfalls.
Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a reusable water bottle.
Be prepared for warm weather, but also bring rain gear just in case.
Carry a copy of your passport for park entry requirements.

Discover the natural wonders of Costa Rica on this full-day adventure, featuring waterfalls, rainforest hikes, and wildlife encounters.

Cancellation conditions

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Any questions?

Product code: 17279P13

Activity offered by Native's Way Costa Rica via Viator.

Who is this activity suitable for?

Nature lovers
Adventure seekers
Wildlife enthusiasts
Families

Activity essentials

Explore the stunning Llanos de Cortes Waterfall and take a refreshing swim.
Hike through Tenorio Volcano National Park to witness the magical Rio Celeste Waterfall.
Visit a sloth sanctuary and observe these fascinating creatures in their natural habitat.
Enjoy a delicious traditional Costa Rican lunch.
Learn about local flora, fauna, and conservation efforts from knowledgeable guides.

Tamarindo: good to know

Population: 7,132 (2022)
Elevation: 27 m
Currency: Costa Rican colón
Official language: Spanish
Driving: on the right
Power plugs: A, B · 120 V
Emergency number: 911
Capital city: San José

Average temperatures

27°Jan
28°Feb
29°Mar
30°Apr
29°May
27°Jun
27°Jul
27°Aug
27°Sept
26°Oct
26°Nov
26°Dec

Sources: Wikidata; climate: NASA POWER, 2001-2025 averages.

Frequently asked questions

What is the duration of the tour?

The tour lasts for 12 hours.

What is the maximum group size?

The maximum group size is 15 people.

Is transportation included?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for most locations. A self-drive option is also available.

What should I bring on the tour?

You should bring a swimsuit, towel, sunscreen, insect repellent, comfortable shoes, a change of clothes, and a copy of your passport.

Can I swim at Rio Celeste waterfall?

No, swimming is not permitted at Rio Celeste waterfall. However, you can swim at Llanos de Cortes waterfall.

Reviews

4.64.6(1.2 k)

5 stars

936

4 stars

137

3 stars

2 stars

1 star

Reviews provided by Viator, written by travellers on Viator and Tripadvisor.

★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Fun times
geoffbI3185TX, October 2026
Was a fun time with the guide and every one on the tour was nice and friendly
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
It’s great to know you had such a fun time with us! We’re happy to hear you enjoyed the tour, your guide, and the friendly atmosphere with the rest of the group. Thanks for joining us and for sharing your experience! Pura Vida! Native's Way
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Excellent tour
A9903XScc, October 2026
Excellent trip- amazing sites and animals. Learned a lot about Costa Rica
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
Sounds like you had a fantastic day exploring Costa Rica! We’re happy you enjoyed the amazing scenery and wildlife and were able to learn more about the country along the way. Thank you for sharing your experience with us, and we hope to see you again on your next adventure! Pura Vida! Native's Way
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Must do this tour!
612leilanic, October 2026
Felipe was best and took us to other really excellent guides.
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
Thank you so much for your kind words! We’re thrilled to hear that Felipe provided such a great experience We truly appreciate your support and hope to welcome you back again soon! Pura Vida, Native's Way
★★★★★Tripadvisor review
Great Tour and Guide
janicerT4528MB, September 2026
This tour was a big hit with our family and the most memorable experience of our trip. Rudy and Orlando were truly remarkable guides! We had some great conversations with Rudy and couldn’t have asked for anyone better. He and Orlando made sure our daughters (9 and 11) had a great experience! We loved swimming at the waterfall, seeing sloths, and the Volcano hike. Rain is almost a guarantee in the rainforest, be sure to bring a poncho. We had disposable ponchos, I would bring reusable if I did it again because the disposable just stuck to our skin. No need for water shoes on this trip. Llanos de Cortes is a short walk from the parking lot and the waterfall area is all sand. Sandals work fine there.
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
What a wonderful way to remember your Costa Rica trip! We’re so happy to hear that this tour was such a hit with your family and that Rudy and Orlando helped make the experience so memorable. We’ll be sure to share your kind words with both of them! It’s especially great to know that your daughters had such a fantastic time. We also appreciate you sharing your helpful tips about the rain and footwear for future travelers. Thank you for choosing Native’s Way and for recommending us. We hope to have the pleasure of welcoming your family back to Costa Rica someday! Pura Vida, Native's Way
★★★★★Viator review
Ehhh experience
Leslie_P, September 2026
Nothing on this tour was breathtaking. The bus driver drove fast enough that I was scared. I couldn’t hear the tour guide on the bus. He needed a microphone.
Response from the operator · NativesWayCostaRica
Thank you for taking the time to share your feedback. We’re sorry to hear that some aspects of the tour did not meet your expectations. Regarding the tour guide’s audio, we have not previously received a complaint that it was difficult to hear the guide inside the van or that a microphone was needed. Nevertheless, we appreciate you bringing this to our attention and will certainly take your suggestion into consideration as we look for ways to improve the experience for our guests. The safety and security of our guests is always our highest priority. We have made all of our drivers aware of the situation and reminded them of the driving guidelines and the standards of service we expect them to maintain. We reached out to you to learn more about what happened and better understand your concerns, but unfortunately, we did not receive a response. As for your comment that nothing on the tour was breathtaking, we are genuinely sorry that you were unable to enjoy any of the natural beauty and attractions included in the experience. While we understand that every guest may have a different perspective, the tour is designed to showcase some of the region’s most remarkable natural surroundings. We appreciate your feedback and will continue working to ensure our guests have a safe, enjoyable, and memorable experience. Pura Vida, Native's Way

11 activities · Costa Rica

Tamarindo, Costa Rica, has 11 activities, tours and experiences to book. Also worth exploring nearby: Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste and Northwest, Liberia.

01Activities to book

The best experiences in Tamarindo

11 in the catalogue

Free cancellation

Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo

from €94★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

from €77★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica

from €209★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Marlin del Rey Catamaran – Tamarindo & Playas del Coco

from €120★ 4.6

Deal

Tamarindo Estuary Boat Safari

from €47★ 4.6

Top pick

Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back!

from €49★ 5.0

Free cancellation

Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

from €114★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels

from €86★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Blue Dolphin - Public Catamaran Tour - Tamarindo

from €82★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

from €123★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Guachipelin Volcano Combo: Zipline, River Tubing & Hot Springs

from €132★ 4.8

All activities · Tamarindo · 11

02On the water

Boats & cruises in Tamarindo

3 activities

Free cancellation

Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo

from €94★ 4.7

Free cancellation

Marlin del Rey Catamaran – Tamarindo & Playas del Coco

from €120★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Blue Dolphin - Public Catamaran Tour - Tamarindo

from €82★ 4.6

03Categories

Sports & adventure in Tamarindo

6 activities

Top pick

ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach

from €77★ 4.9

Top pick

Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back!

from €49★ 5.0

Free cancellation

Volcano Hike, Waterfall Swim & Hot Springs Combo on Rincon de la Vieja

from €114★ 4.7

Top pick

ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels

from €86★ 4.9

Free cancellation

Rio Celeste Hiking, Sloth Sanctuary & Llanos de Cortes Waterfall Tour

from €123★ 4.6

Free cancellation

Guachipelin Volcano Combo: Zipline, River Tubing & Hot Springs

from €132★ 4.8

04Explore nearby

Nearby cities

4 cities

Playa Flamingo

Playa Hermosa

Guanacaste and Northwest

Liberia

Frequently asked questions about Tamarindo

What is there to do in Tamarindo?

Tamarindo has 11 activities, tours and day trips you can book online. Among the most booked: « Catamaran Sunset Cruise with Snorkeling from Tamarindo », « ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach », « Nicaragua Full Day Tour from Costa Rica ».

What are the top-rated activities in Tamarindo?

According to traveller reviews: « Surf Lesson in Tamarindo - Stand Up or Your Money Back! » (5.0/5, 761 reviews) ; « ATV and UTV Beach Tour from Tamarindo, Flamingo and Conchal Beach » (4.9/5, 464 reviews) ; « ATV or Buggy Guided Tour from Tamarindo, Conchal or RIU Hotels » (4.9/5, 930 reviews).

Can you cancel an activity in Tamarindo for free?

Usually, yes: 11 of the 11 most popular activities in Tamarindo offer free cancellation. The exact terms are shown on each activity page before you book.

What is there to visit near Tamarindo?

Close to Tamarindo: Playa Flamingo, Playa Hermosa, Guanacaste and Northwest, Liberia.