Tucked away in Costa Rica’s lush northern zone, near the border with Nicaragua, Blue River Resort Costa Rica is one of those rare destinations that feels both adventurous and deeply relaxing at the same time. Located north of the dramatic Rincón de la Vieja Volcano, this eco-friendly resort is surrounded by rainforest, rivers, wildlife, and the soothing sounds of nature. It is the kind of place where time slows down, stress melts away, and every day brings a new experience.
I visited Blue River Resort with my friends Jessica and Grevin, staying for two nights—though we all agreed it was far too short. From the moment we arrived, we knew this was a place that deserved a longer stay.
Getting There: A Scenic Journey
The drive from Liberia International Airport took approximately one and a half hours, winding through rural landscapes, cattle ranches, and tropical greenery. As we traveled farther north, the scenery became increasingly wild and untouched, setting the tone for the adventure that awaited us.
Arriving at Blue River Resort feels like discovering a hidden oasis. The resort is surrounded by dense jungle and rainforest, with the Blue River flowing gently nearby, creating a peaceful soundtrack of running water and birdsong.
Comfortable Accommodations in Nature
Our room was spacious, clean, and thoughtfully designed, blending comfort with rustic charm. We had two very comfortable queen-size beds, perfect after a long day of travel and activities. The large bathroom was modern and well-maintained, offering plenty of space to refresh and unwind.
One fascinating detail about the construction of the resort is that the buildings are made from yellow pine imported from Florida, specially treated to protect against tropical termites. This attention to detail reflects the resort’s commitment to durability, comfort, and sustainability in a tropical environment.
Large windows allowed natural light to fill the room, and stepping outside in the early morning revealed mist rising from the forest and the distant calls of monkeys—an unforgettable way to wake up.
Hot Springs Bliss After a Long Day
After the drive from Liberia, we were tired and ready to relax. The perfect solution awaited us: three natural hot spring pools, nestled among the trees. Slipping into the warm mineral waters was pure bliss.
The hot springs are fed by geothermal activity from the nearby volcanic region, and each pool offers a slightly different temperature, allowing guests to find their perfect level of comfort. Surrounded by jungle foliage and open skies, soaking in the hot springs feels incredibly therapeutic—both physically and mentally.
This was the moment we truly felt that we had arrived somewhere special.
Dining at the Open-Air Restaurant
Dinner that evening was served at the resort’s open-air restaurant, where the atmosphere is relaxed and welcoming. We ordered a tropical chicken salad, beautifully prepared with fresh greens grown right on the resort grounds. The flavors were vibrant, fresh, and perfectly suited to the tropical setting.
To finish the meal, I treated myself to a cup of freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee, brand 1860, rich and aromatic—exactly what Costa Rica is famous for. The menu is varied and thoughtfully designed, offering excellent choices for both adults and children.
The chef, Julio, is a young and talented Costa Rican who trained at the INA (Instituto Nacional de Aprendizaje), the country’s largest and most respected culinary school. His passion for food is evident in every dish, combining local ingredients with careful preparation.
Surrounded by Wildlife and Rainforest Sounds
One of the most magical aspects of Blue River Resort is its natural setting. The resort is completely surrounded by lush rainforest and dense jungle. In the mornings, we woke to the sounds of howler monkeys calling from the treetops, while colorful birds—toucans, green parrots, and other tropical species—flitted through the trees throughout the day.
Nature is not something you visit here; it surrounds you at all times.
The Blue River, running adjacent to the resort, adds to the sense of tranquility while also serving as the backdrop for many of the resort’s outdoor adventures.
Outdoor Adventures for All Ages
Blue River Resort offers a wide range of guided outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for families, couples, and adventure lovers alike.
Guided Rainforest Hikes
Several guided hikes are available, taking guests deep into the rainforest and along the banks of the Blue River. These walks are both educational and immersive, offering opportunities to learn about local plants, wildlife, and ecosystems.
Horseback Riding Along the Blue River
Horseback riding is another popular activity, allowing guests to explore the area at a relaxed pace while enjoying stunning river and forest views.
Tubing Down the Blue River
Without a doubt, one of the most memorable experiences was tubing down the Blue River. Floating along the gentle rapids, bouncing playfully over the water, and laughing nonstop—it was pure fun. The rapids are not too swift, making the activity safe and enjoyable for both adults and children (as long as the children are tall enough to sit comfortably in the tubes).
Tarzan Zip Line Adventure
For thrill-seekers, the Tarzan zip line is a must. Flying through the rainforest canopy, surrounded by towering trees and jungle sounds, is an exhilarating experience that offers a unique perspective of the forest from above.
Spa and Wellness Experiences
After a day filled with adventure, the spa at Blue River Resort provides the perfect opportunity to relax and recharge. The spa offers:
- Volcanic mud body wraps, using mineral-rich soil sourced from the region
- Therapeutic massage therapy, delivered by skilled professionals
The combination of natural elements, expert techniques, and tranquil surroundings makes the spa experience deeply rejuvenating.
Family-Friendly and Kid-Approved
Blue River Resort is an excellent choice for families. One of its most attractive features is that up to two children under the age of ten stay for free in the room with their parents. With so many outdoor activities, kids are constantly engaged and entertained.
In addition to adventure tours, the resort features:
- A large cool-water swimming pool
- Three separate hot spring pools
- Safe, open spaces to explore nature
Parents can relax knowing their children are having fun in a safe and enriching environment.
Why Blue River Resort Stands Out
What truly sets Blue River Resort apart is its balance of comfort, adventure, and natural beauty. It offers the excitement of outdoor activities alongside the serenity of hot springs, spa treatments, and peaceful accommodations.
Whether you are:
- Traveling with family
- Seeking adventure
- Looking for a romantic escape
- Or simply wanting to reconnect with nature
Blue River Resort delivers an unforgettable Costa Rican experience.
Final Thoughts
Our stay at Blue River Resort Costa Rica left a lasting impression. From the warm hospitality and delicious food to the thrilling adventures and soothing hot springs, every detail was thoughtfully designed to create a memorable experience.
Two nights were simply not enough. This is a place where you want to slow down, stay longer, and truly immerse yourself in Costa Rica’s natural beauty.
If you are planning a trip to Costa Rica’s northern zone, Blue River Resort and Hot Springs should be at the top of your list—a destination where nature, comfort, and adventure come together perfectly.