"A serene retreat close to Rio, Celeste, and national Park, even though there was a bit of language barrier. The front desk was kind and we figured it out. She even helped us book a night tour. The property grounds were beautiful. It felt like you were in the jungle. There is no AC, but there is fans in the room. The hammock outside the Villa was a nice touch and you had your own privacy. It’s not a huge room but cosy enough and clean and hot water, which is a huge plus . We seen a Pezzotti by...
"A serene retreat close to Rio, Celeste, and national Park, even though there was a bit of language barrier. The front desk was kind and we figured it out. She even helped us book a night tour. The property grounds were beautiful. It felt like you were in the jungle. There is no AC, but there is fans in the room. The hammock outside the Villa was a nice touch and you had your own privacy. It’s not a huge room but cosy enough and clean and hot water, which is a huge plus . We seen a Pezzotti by...
"This is a perfect place to stay for anyone planning to do the Tenorio Volcano hike, as the trail is walking distance from your room. Cecilia was an incredible hostess, diligent and super friendly. The room was spotless and the bed was very comfortable. No complaints at all❗️"
"This is a perfect place to stay for anyone planning to do the Tenorio Volcano hike, as the trail is walking distance from your room. Cecilia was an incredible hostess, diligent and super friendly. The room was spotless and the bed was very comfortable. No complaints at all❗️"
"This is an amazing place to stay. The food at the restaurant is very good the service provided by each and every staff member is truly great. They really are exceptional with their customer service. The view facing the Arenal volcano is breathtaking. Will definitely recommend this place."
"This is an amazing place to stay. The food at the restaurant is very good the service provided by each and every staff member is truly great. They really are exceptional with their customer service. The view facing the Arenal volcano is breathtaking. Will definitely recommend this place."
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Rio Celeste Waterfall during your travels in Katira. Discover the area's volcano viewpoints and seek out the hiking trails.
A hidden gem in guanacaste province! By far my favorite place, from the warm welcome, to the well-thought out layout of our cabin, to the excellent service all around!
The place is clean, safe, well maintained, easy to navigate even for our young kids, who felt right at home.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a chocolate drink and a tasting of various locally crafted cacao products. The breakfast, traditional costa rican, is made fresh every morning, with coffee/tea/hot chocolate...
A hidden gem in guanacaste province! By far my favorite place, from the warm welcome, to the well-thought out layout of our cabin, to the excellent service all around!
The place is clean, safe, well maintained, easy to navigate even for our young kids, who felt right at home.
Upon arrival, we were welcomed with a chocolate drink and a tasting of various locally crafted cacao products. The breakfast, traditional costa rican, is made fresh every morning, with coffee/tea/hot chocolate...
Ran
Reviewed October 15, 2026Reviewed October 15, 2026
Stayed 5 nights and had an amazing experience staying in nature. The couple greeting us upon arrival did not speak English and we had to figure out some things in the room on our own. Bed was comfy and it was surprisingly fine without air conditioning. Towels were very soft. The bedside table had lots of plugs for charging multiple devices. Wifi was great. The rain, fan, birds and bugs are noisy but in a peaceful way.
We did not love having to go outside to use the bathroom or access water. A...
Stayed 5 nights and had an amazing experience staying in nature. The couple greeting us upon arrival did not speak English and we had to figure out some things in the room on our own. Bed was comfy and it was surprisingly fine without air conditioning. Towels were very soft. The bedside table had lots of plugs for charging multiple devices. Wifi was great. The rain, fan, birds and bugs are noisy but in a peaceful way.
We did not love having to go outside to use the bathroom or access water. A...
Tara Dawn
Reviewed November 11, 2026Reviewed November 11, 2026
Host was accommodating and caring!
Close to grocery, restaurants, & most activities, by car.
Chalet was comfortable with A/C, washing machine and clothesline, well-equipped kitchen, nice mattresses… and a bottle of vino tinto!
A lovely stay! Highly recommend :)
Host was accommodating and caring!
Close to grocery, restaurants, & most activities, by car.
Chalet was comfortable with A/C, washing machine and clothesline, well-equipped kitchen, nice mattresses… and a bottle of vino tinto!
A lovely stay! Highly recommend :)
Great place to stay for peace and quiet with a beautiful view of Costa Rican rain forest and wild life. Owners were the nicest people I've met in Costa Rica. It's a more authentic and personal experience than a typical hotel, or B&B. definitely recommend.
Great place to stay for peace and quiet with a beautiful view of Costa Rican rain forest and wild life. Owners were the nicest people I've met in Costa Rica. It's a more authentic and personal experience than a typical hotel, or B&B. definitely recommend.
Muchi
Reviewed December 27, 2015Reviewed December 27, 2015
Villa El Tucan is a gorgeous, quiet property , beautifully landscaped with a lovely refreshing pool. There is a covered area and lots of chairs and loungers available. The rooms are your own private casita, comfy beds, nice bathrooms and too many extra touches to name them all that make your stay as comfortable as possible. The owners have thought of everything. The owner Stefan and his wife Nilleth are warm, helpful and welcoming. The breakfast was excellent.
We enjoyed our stay very much and...
Villa El Tucan is a gorgeous, quiet property , beautifully landscaped with a lovely refreshing pool. There is a covered area and lots of chairs and loungers available. The rooms are your own private casita, comfy beds, nice bathrooms and too many extra touches to name them all that make your stay as comfortable as possible. The owners have thought of everything. The owner Stefan and his wife Nilleth are warm, helpful and welcoming. The breakfast was excellent.
We enjoyed our stay very much and...
Derek
Reviewed November 10, 2026Reviewed November 10, 2026
We loved our stay at this property, we were shown around by Angie who seemed to be the animal whisperer. Wherever we went we saw all sorts of animals, monkeys, sloths, toucans, humming birds and so many more. It’s a beautiful paradise and we loved every minute we had here. We were sad to have to move on when we did. Thankyou so much for looking after us so well.
We loved our stay at this property, we were shown around by Angie who seemed to be the animal whisperer. Wherever we went we saw all sorts of animals, monkeys, sloths, toucans, humming birds and so many more. It’s a beautiful paradise and we loved every minute we had here. We were sad to have to move on when we did. Thankyou so much for looking after us so well.
We really enjoyed our stay here. The garden was incredible and the lovely family did a little night tour to show us frogs, sleeping birds and other small creatures and plants. In the day we saw many birds. The little side kitchen was nice, and the hostess cooked very good breakfasts of local food, much of which they grew. This was one of our favourite places we stayed in CR.
We really enjoyed our stay here. The garden was incredible and the lovely family did a little night tour to show us frogs, sleeping birds and other small creatures and plants. In the day we saw many birds. The little side kitchen was nice, and the hostess cooked very good breakfasts of local food, much of which they grew. This was one of our favourite places we stayed in CR.
Agua Inn is a wonderful facility. The location is far enough away from Nuevo Arnenal to feel private yet close enough to drive into town to dine at restaurants or visit the town. The inn is also far enough away from the main road so you do not hear the traffic. The room was charming and clean. The staff were helpful and friendly yet respected your privacy. The inn has a gorgeous view the the river and the grounds are well maintained. We were there for 2 nights and the breakfast each...
Agua Inn is a wonderful facility. The location is far enough away from Nuevo Arnenal to feel private yet close enough to drive into town to dine at restaurants or visit the town. The inn is also far enough away from the main road so you do not hear the traffic. The room was charming and clean. The staff were helpful and friendly yet respected your privacy. The inn has a gorgeous view the the river and the grounds are well maintained. We were there for 2 nights and the breakfast each...
Le personnel a été très agréable et prévenant. Le restaurant était parfait avec une carte à la fois internationale et locale pour tous les goûts. Excellente cuisine et service. Toujours avec le sourire. Je recommande le site.
Le personnel a été très agréable et prévenant. Le restaurant était parfait avec une carte à la fois internationale et locale pour tous les goûts. Excellente cuisine et service. Toujours avec le sourire. Je recommande le site.
Best Stay of Our Costa Rica Trip — Malekus Mountain Lodge
This was, hands down, the best place we stayed during our 10 days in Costa Rica. Not only is the property itself beautiful, but we had the pleasure of being the only guests, so Roger and Rosy treated us like family. They helped us shape our itinerary to have a more authentic, local experience, and honestly ended up defining our whole trip.
The rooms were comfortable — we had the one with a double bed plus a separate room with a bunk bed,...
Best Stay of Our Costa Rica Trip — Malekus Mountain Lodge
This was, hands down, the best place we stayed during our 10 days in Costa Rica. Not only is the property itself beautiful, but we had the pleasure of being the only guests, so Roger and Rosy treated us like family. They helped us shape our itinerary to have a more authentic, local experience, and honestly ended up defining our whole trip.
The rooms were comfortable — we had the one with a double bed plus a separate room with a bunk bed,...
The staff were terrific. Helpful and accommodating. The grounds were beautiful. The restaurant was first rate - the best dinners we had in Costa Rica. I thought they must have brought the chef in from Paris or New York, but the waiter said he was a local. Dinner was something I looked forward to every night. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. Being in the rain forest, you should expect everything to be dank and you may see small creatures in your room. Nothing to worry about, but some...
The staff were terrific. Helpful and accommodating. The grounds were beautiful. The restaurant was first rate - the best dinners we had in Costa Rica. I thought they must have brought the chef in from Paris or New York, but the waiter said he was a local. Dinner was something I looked forward to every night. The rooms were spacious and comfortable. Being in the rain forest, you should expect everything to be dank and you may see small creatures in your room. Nothing to worry about, but some...
Everything was spotless, the pool and gardens were beautiful, Carlos had great tips about the area and getting around, and the breakfast was incredible
Everything was spotless, the pool and gardens were beautiful, Carlos had great tips about the area and getting around, and the breakfast was incredible
Abigail
Reviewed January 22, 2026Reviewed January 22, 2026
We enjoyed our stay very much. The staff were great, the facilities were beautiful and the boat tour excursion they arranged for us was spectacular. We enjoyed the natural pool and the walking trail every day during our stay.
We enjoyed our stay very much. The staff were great, the facilities were beautiful and the boat tour excursion they arranged for us was spectacular. We enjoyed the natural pool and the walking trail every day during our stay.
One of the most enjoyable places we’ve ever stayed at. Seperate cabin/cassittas with a gorgeous lake view. Julio is your own private chef and is spectacular. Only downside is the rough drive up the hill off of the main road and that fact that you probably need a vehicle as it’s about 40 minutes outside of La Fortuna.
One of the most enjoyable places we’ve ever stayed at. Seperate cabin/cassittas with a gorgeous lake view. Julio is your own private chef and is spectacular. Only downside is the rough drive up the hill off of the main road and that fact that you probably need a vehicle as it’s about 40 minutes outside of La Fortuna.
Anonymous traveller
Reviewed February 23, 2019Reviewed February 23, 2019
We enjoyed our stay tremendously. The tours were a lot of fun, the canyon is amazing, the hiking trails are very nice, with fantastic views.
The food was excellent. Every single menu item we ordered was very tasty, and very nicely presented.
We enjoyed our stay tremendously. The tours were a lot of fun, the canyon is amazing, the hiking trails are very nice, with fantastic views.
The food was excellent. Every single menu item we ordered was very tasty, and very nicely presented.
Breathtaking Waterfalls: Experience the stunning Rio Celeste waterfall, a must-see natural wonder that showcases the area's vibrant blue waters.
Outdoor Adventures: Enjoy thrilling activities like hiking, lazy river experiences, and nearby water slides for an adrenaline-filled getaway.
Lush National Parks: Explore scenic trails and immerse yourself in the rich biodiversity of the surrounding national parks.
Relaxing Hot Springs: Unwind in soothing hot springs, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and natural beauty.
Charming Accommodations: Choose from luxurious lodges to cozy bed & breakfasts for a memorable stay amidst nature.
Find great hotels near Rio Celeste
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Rio Celeste with a stay at one of its charming accommodations, including luxurious options and cozy bed & breakfasts. Whether you're seeking adventure, a pet-friendly environment, or a family vacation, the area offers a range of hotels like Rio Celeste Hideaway Hotel and Celeste Mountain Lodge to cater to your every need. Enjoy a memorable getaway surrounded by nature's wonders in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica.
Lost Iguana Resort and Spa: Nestled 35.4km from Rio Celeste, Lost Iguana Resort and Spa offers a family-friendly, adventure-themed getaway amidst stunning natural beauty. This 3.5-star resort provides a plethora of outdoor activities, including hiking, ziplining, kayaking, and rafting, ensuring thrill-seekers have plenty to explore. Families will appreciate the thoughtful amenities for children, such as babysitting services and a children’s pool. For relaxation, guests can indulge in the full-service spa or unwind at the heated pool and poolside bar, making it an ideal choice for both adventure and relaxation.
Hotel Arenal Lodge: Located 33.8km from Rio Celeste, Hotel Arenal Lodge is a 3-star haven for nature lovers and families, with a welcoming pet-friendly policy. This lodge boasts a variety of family-friendly amenities, including an arcade game room, foosball table, and shared playground, ensuring that younger guests are entertained. Surrounded by lush landscapes, visitors can enjoy the tranquil atmosphere while exploring nature trails nearby. The hotel allows pets, making it a convenient choice for those travelling with furry companions.
La Mansion Inn Arenal: Situated 29.0km from Rio Celeste, La Mansion Inn Arenal is a 3.5-star property that combines adventure with relaxation through its proximity to natural hot springs. Guests can engage in various activities such as windsurfing, hiking, and horseback riding, or simply unwind in the nearby hot springs. This pet-friendly hotel also welcomes furry guests, allowing families to enjoy their vacation together. With its blend of excitement and comfort, La Mansion Inn Arenal is a fantastic option for those seeking a memorable escape.
Where to stay near Rio Celeste
Rio Celeste, nestled in Alajuela Province, offers a breathtaking blend of adventure and serenity. This hidden gem is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, romantic getaways, and those seeking secluded luxury. Explore lush landscapes and vibrant scenery that create a friendly, inviting atmosphere. Venture into nearby towns for an authentic Costa Rican experience, making it an ideal spot for a memorable vacation filled with adventure and relaxation.
El Achiote: Nestled a mere 3.2km from Rio Celeste, El Achiote is a charming village that invites visitors to immerse themselves in nature's bounty. Known for its outdoor adventures, this locale offers stunning scenery, making it a perfect base for hiking trails and exploring nearby waterfalls. The local attractions include pristine beaches and the breathtaking national state park, ensuring a memorable experience for nature enthusiasts. The peak travel months of March and December to January see the village come alive, while the quieter months from August to October provide an intimate atmosphere for exploration.
Katira: Positioned 4.8km from Rio Celeste, Katira is a vibrant city that captivates outdoor lovers and adventure seekers alike. The city’s appeal lies in its array of activities, from luxurious spas to exhilarating adventure sports. Visitors can explore the nearby national parks and marvel at the majestic volcanoes that surround the area. With consistent traveller arrivals throughout the year, Katira thrives during peak seasons in March and December to January, offering a rich cultural experience combined with stunning natural beauty.
Bijagua: Located 9.7km from Rio Celeste, Bijagua is a bustling city that serves as a gateway to various outdoor experiences. The area is renowned for its scenic hiking trails and relaxing resorts, making it an ideal spot for those seeking both adventure and relaxation. Visitors can explore nearby national parks and witness the awe-inspiring volcanoes that define the landscape. With steady tourist traffic year-round, Bijagua promises an engaging experience, particularly during peak months in March and December to January, when the beauty of the region is on full display.
Things to do near Rio Celeste
Rio Celeste offers an exciting blend of outdoor adventures and stunning scenery, perfect for vacationers seeking relaxation and thrill. You can enjoy a lazy river experience, explore jungle trails, and embark on the Rio Celeste hike. For those craving more excitement, there are water slides and various adventure tours available nearby. Whether you’re looking for a spa retreat or an adventurous getaway, Rio Celeste has something for everyone.
Shopping
The nearest shopping area is El Pilon Station, located 1.6km from Rio Celeste. This vibrant spot offers a mix of local businesses and a family-friendly atmosphere, perfect for picking up unique gifts and souvenirs that reflect the charm of Costa Rica.
Recreation
Wellness Park Costa Rica, 35.4km from Rio Celeste, offers a tranquil environment for relaxation and rejuvenation. Termales Los Laureles, located 40.2km away, features soothing thermal springs and serene landscapes. Go Adventure Park, 38.6km from Rio Celeste, combines wellness with thrilling outdoor activities in a stunning natural setting.
Adventure
FlyZone Wakeboard School offers exhilarating water sports experiences located 19.3km from Rio Celeste, perfect for thrill-seekers. For family fun, explore the Miravalles Maze, situated 25.7km away. Finally, embark on an adventure at Cerró Pelado, a scenic hiking trail 38.6km from Rio Celeste, showcasing stunning views.
Nightlife
Explore the vibrant nightlife at El Cafecito, where you can savour local coffee cocktails and enjoy live music. For a lively atmosphere, visit La Casa de la Cultura, featuring dance performances and cultural events that celebrate Costa Rican traditions.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.
Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Rio Celeste
For a budget-friendly trip to Rio Celeste, consider visiting between September and November when prices are lower. Book accommodations about a month in advance or check for last-minute deals on Expedia. Saturdays tend to be the cheapest nights to stay. Utilize public transport to save on travel costs, and explore free activities in the area, like hiking. To maximize savings, consider booking a package that combines flights, hotels, and activities. Use Expedia's filters to find eco-friendly options and compare rates to secure the best deals.
The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Rio Celeste are September to November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to March to April and July, where prices are slightly higher.
The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel around Rio Celeste is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Rio Celeste is Saturday. The most expensive day to stay around Rio Celeste is Thursday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool lets you specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can easily sort the results to display hotels from the most affordable to the highest priced, ensuring you find the best deals first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally friendly hotels available for booking.
Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel reservation at Rio Celeste with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions near Rio Celeste
Rio Celeste, located in Alajuela Province, Costa Rica, is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and adventure seekers. This stunning destination features attractions like the breathtaking Rio Celeste waterfall, lush national parks, and soothing hot springs. Whether you're hiking through scenic trails or relaxing by the river, Rio Celeste offers a memorable experience that caters to those looking for natural beauty and outdoor activities.
Rio Celeste Waterfall: A stunning natural wonder located 3.2km from Rio Celeste, this waterfall enchants visitors with its vibrant turquoise waters and lush surroundings. Perfect for adventure seekers and romantic getaways, the scenic hike to the falls offers incredible photo opportunities.
Tenorio Volcano National Park: Situated 6.4km away, this national park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. Its diverse landscapes feature lush forests, volcanic terrain, and breathtaking views, making it ideal for hiking and exploring the unique flora and fauna.
Lake Arenal: Located 25.7km from Rio Celeste, Lake Arenal is a serene escape. With its beautiful beaches and picturesque scenery, it’s perfect for a romantic picnic or outdoor activities like kayaking and fishing.
Best time to go to Rio Celeste
The best time to visit Rio Celeste can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Rio Celeste falls in May, when visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly cloudy with moderate rain. The coolest average temperature around Rio Celeste falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with no rain.
Calendar Month
Temperature
Precipitation
Cloudiness
Occupancy
Pricing
January
75.6°F (24.200000000000003°C)
No Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
February
76.6°F (24.8°C)
No Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
March
78.1°F (25.6°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Slightly High
Slightly High
April
80.4°F (26.9°C)
No Rain
Mostly Sunny
Average
Slightly High
May
80.6°F (27.0°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
June
79.3°F (26.3°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Average
July
78.3°F (25.700000000000003°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly High
August
78.8°F (26.0°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Average
September
79.3°F (26.3°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
October
78.4°F (25.8°C)
Frequent Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly Low
Slightly Low
November
77.0°F (25.0°C)
Moderate Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Average
Slightly Low
December
75.9°F (24.4°C)
Light Rain
Mostly Cloudy
Slightly High
Average
The nearest major airports for your trip to Rio Celeste
To reach Rio Celeste, you can fly into two major airports: Liberia (LIR-Daniel Oduber Intl.), located 64.4km away, and La Fortuna (FON-Arenal), situated 45.1km away. Near Liberia, notable accommodations include the 5-star Four Seasons Resort Peninsula Papagayo, 16.1km from the airport, and the 4.5-star Secrets Papagayo, 11.3km away, both offering various transportation services. In La Fortuna, The Springs Resort and Spa at Arenal, a 5-star property, is 6.4km from the airport, while the 4.5-star Royal Corin Thermal Water Spa & Resort is just 4.8km away, providing convenient shuttle options.