How many stairs must visitors descend and climb to reach the Rio Celeste waterfall base in Tenorio Volcano National Park?

Visitors must descend and climb 253 steep steps along a dedicated spur trail to reach the waterfall viewing platform inside Tenorio Volcano National Park in northern Costa Rica.

Many hikers underestimate the physical demand of navigating the wet rainforest staircase alongside the main trail distance. Park management strictly prohibits swimming at the base, meaning visitors tackle this vertical climb purely for the viewpoint and photography.

If you only do one thing: Pace your return ascent in steady intervals rather than rushing, as high humidity and slick wooden steps demand consistent foot placement.

• Stair count: The descent features 253 built steps leading down a steep ravine to the cascade base and requires climbing the same 253 steps back up to reconnect with the main path.
• Trail distance: Reaching the waterfall turnoff requires walking roughly 1.5 kilometers (0.9 miles) from the park entrance before starting down the staircase.
• Elevation profile: The wooden and concrete staircase drops roughly 60 meters (200 feet) into the river canyon, creating a sustained vertical grade.
• Total hike duration: Navigating the waterfall spur and the full 7-kilometer (4.3-mile) out-and-back park trail typically takes 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on trail mud and hiker pace.
• Park admission: Adult entry costs $12 USD (plus statutory park processing fees) and must be booked online prior to arrival through the SINAC government portal.

• Watch out for: slick handrails and muddy treads after rainfall, which increase slip hazards across the 253-step descent.
• Watch out for: arriving without an advance SINAC ticket reservation, because park rangers do not sell entry passes on-site.
• Watch out for: attempting the stair climb in smooth-soled street shoes or sandals, as wet timber and rainforest clay require footwear with deep tread.

Purchase your timed entry ticket on the official SINAC portal at least 48 hours before your visit date to secure early morning trail access before peak humidity sets in.