White Water! Rafting Costa Rica's Best Tropical Rivers.
Let us help you decide which river is best for your expectations.
From the mild Balsa to the moderate Sarapiquí to the world-famous Pacuare, there are rivers, and operators, to satisfy every raft enthusiasts' challenge level. We know the most reliable operators and fastest routes to each river, and we'll make all the arrangements (and reservations) for you.
All participants must read and sign the RELEASE before we can start a trip with you.
Rivers and Approximate Pricing
Rio Balsa - above La Fortuna
A sweet small river with gentle rapids, suitable for kids down to about 8 years old. Several operators depart from La Fortuna in the operator's buses at 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM for the hour drive to the river. Approximately 1 ½ hours on the river. Class II and a few Class III rapids, 10 kilometers of water, mainly a river with ripples.
- Per person $69. Operated by Desafio Adventures, La Fortuna
CHOOSE YOUR START TIME: arrive at the operator's office by 8:00 for the 8:30 departure, or arrive by 1:00 for the 1:30 departure.
Rio Sarapiquí, near Puerto Viejo de Sarapiquí,
1 hour's drive east of LaFinca. A moderate Class III river with multiple rapids. Great for beginners and for kids down to about 12 years old. Groups depart from La Virgen for the 10 minute ride to the river at 8:30 AM and 1:30 PM. Approximately 2.5 hours on the river. Class III river, 13 kilometers of river.
- Per person $58. Operated by Pozo Azul, La Virgen
CHOOSE YOUR START TIME: arrive by 8 for the 8:30 departure, or arrive by 1:00 for the 1:30 departure.
Rio Pacuare
3 hour's drive east of LaFinca. National Geographic Adventure calls this one of the top 10 rivers of the world. Multiple Class IV rapids. Minimum age 14. The Pacuare passes through virgin canyons with massive waterfalls, roaring rapids. Approximately 6 hours on the river. You can meet the operator at the top of the entry road, and arrange for your car to be delivered to the exit location (always guarded). Depart from LaFinca by 6 AM to reach the meeting point by 9 AM. Class III and IV almost continuous rapids. 28 kilometers on the water. The take-out is on the Caribbean side of the mountains, only 45 minutes west of the port city of Limon.
- GROUP TOUR: Per person $125. Includes lunch on the river, Entrance fee for river access.
- If operator needs to move your vehicle from put-in (Tres Equis)to take-out (Siquerres), add $50. We highly recommend this service to reduce your time after the river picking up the vehicle.
- NOTE: A truly remarkable adventure is to run the Pacuare as a private trip -- only you and the raft guide, plus your private safety kayaker. More time playing with the rapids. Learn to guide! By far the most challenging and best way to run the Pacuare. Costs vary depending on season and number of participants, but figure between $600 and $800 for groups of 4 to 6 people.
START TIME: Be at the paved road entrance to the river (in Tres Equis) by 10 AM... figure 3 hours without stops from LaFinca. Add time for a meal, or, if a private trip, eat lunch at the river before setting off in the boats.