Rafting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica, with its year-round warm water and stunning natural beauty, offers some of the world's finest white-water rafting and kayaking rivers.

Rafters can choose from half-day, full-day, and multi-day trips, catering to all skill levels. Expert tour guides provide safety instructions and offer insights into the amazing wildlife and scenery along the way.

From an ecotourism perspective, white-water rafting offers a low-impact experience on the environment. It provides access to remote, pristine rainforests and allows for unique wildlife viewing opportunities. Here are some of the most popular rivers for rafting:

Penas Blancas River: Ideal for families or those seeking a more leisurely float, the Penas Blancas River features Class I and II rapids. A safari float down this river offers excellent opportunities to observe the beautiful forest surroundings and spot unique wildlife.

Rio Balsa: Located about 45 minutes from La Fortuna, the Rio Balsa is a good option for beginners. Paddling down the river, you'll be surrounded by lush, wildlife-rich forests, providing an incredible way to experience the rainforest while enjoying an exhilarating activity.

Savegre River: Found near Manuel Antonio, the Savegre River is one of the cleanest in Central America. It features a mix of calm stretches and exciting rapids, with opportunities for swimming breaks between navigating the rapids.

Pacuare River: Considered one of the world's top-rated rivers for rafting, the Pacuare River offers stunning views and challenging rapids. The river runs alongside the Talamanca Mountain Range, home to a vast array of exotic wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, parrots, jaguars, deer, butterflies, and ocelots. Due to the intensity of the rapids, there is an age requirement for this trip.

Naranjo River: Near Manuel Antonio, the Naranjo River features an exhilarating stretch of rapids before opening up onto the Pacific flatlands, allowing for a more relaxing journey while enjoying birdwatching in the region. There is an age requirement for this trip.