White Water Rafting - Pacuare River - Full Day
- Duration:
- 11 hours
- Location:
- Puerto Viejo de Talamanca, San José, La Fortuna
- Region:
- Caribbean
- Difficulty:
- Class II and III
- Adventure & Thrill
- Kid-friendly
- Water Activities
- Wildlife & Nature
Per person
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About this tour
Get ready for one of the most unforgettable adventures in Costa Rica with this Pacuare River 1 Day Rafting Trip in Costa Rica. Known worldwide for its breathtaking scenery and exciting rapids, the Pacuare River combines adrenaline, wildlife, and untouched rainforest into a single incredible experience.
This is considered one of the best rafting tours in Costa Rica, taking you deep into lush jungle canyons surrounded by waterfalls, tropical birds, and dense rainforest. Along the way, you’ll paddle through thrilling Class III and IV rapids while also enjoying calmer sections perfect for soaking in the natural beauty of the region.
The Pacuare River is famous for offering much more than just rafting. Between rapids, you may spot toucans, monkeys, sloths, and colorful tropical plants hidden within the rainforest. The combination of adventure and scenery makes white water rafting near San José and the Caribbean slope one of the top experiences for travelers visiting Costa Rica.
Perfect for adventurous travelers, couples, groups, and active families, this full-day rafting tour delivers a true Costa Rican jungle experience with professional guides, safety support, and unforgettable river views from start to finish.
Why You’ll Love This Tour
- Experience one of the best white water rafting tours in Costa Rica
- Paddle through exciting Class III and IV rapids
- Explore remote rainforest landscapes only accessible by river
- Spot wildlife, including monkeys, toucans, and sloths
- Professional bilingual rafting guides and safety kayakers
- Perfect mix of adrenaline and scenic river sections
- Includes meals and transportation from select locations
- Ideal for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike
What to Expect
Early morning hotel pickup or meeting at the designated departure point
Travel through scenic mountain roads toward the Pacuare River region
Enjoy breakfast before gearing up for the rafting adventure
Receive a detailed safety briefing and paddling instructions from expert guides
Begin rafting through thrilling rapids and beautiful rainforest scenery
Stop along calmer sections to rest, swim, and enjoy the surroundings
Observe waterfalls, jungle canyons, and local wildlife during the journey
Finish the rafting route and enjoy a well-deserved lunch
...
Tour Details
Duration : Approximately 12 hours, including transportation and rafting time.
Location : Pacuare River, Caribbean region of Costa Rica.
Difficulty : Moderate to challenging due to Class III and IV rapids.
Schedule :
Early morning departures, typically between 5:30 AM and 7:00 AM, depending on pickup location : 6:00 – 6:30 am: Pick-Ups in San José and Southern Caribbean Coast. In Arenal, Pick-Ups start earlier, approximately 5:20 – 5:40 a.m. _Note: Pick-Ups in Cahuíta would be at 6:50 am_
6:30 – 8:15 am: In route to “Exploration Center” (Siquirres)
8:15 – 9:00 am: Breakfast at “Exploration Center”
9:00 – 9:30 am: In route “Exploration Center” – River Access
9:30 – 10:15 am: Preparation for the Descent (safety orientation, paddle practice)
10:15 – 2:15 pm: River Descent (including lunch)
2:15 – 3:00 pm: Return to our “Exploration Center” with time to shower, change and enjoy a beverage.
3:00 – 5:30 pm: In route to “Exploration Center” – San José, Southern Caribbean Coast, and Arenal Volcano Area
Experience Required : No previous rafting experience required, but participants should be comfortable in water and in good physical condition.
What’s Included
- Full-day Pacuare River rafting tour
- Professional bilingual rafting guides
- Safety equipment, including a helmet and a life jacket
- Breakfast and lunch
- Round-trip transportation from select areas: Arenal & La Fortuna, San José, or Puerto Viejo
- Safety kayak support when required
- River access and rafting permits
- Secure storage for personal belongings during the tour
- ...
What to Bring
- Quick-dry clothing
- Secure water shoes or sandals with straps
- Swimsuit
- Change of clothes for after the tour
- Waterproof camera or GoPro
- Sunscreen
- Towel
- Extra cash for optional purchases or tips
Frequently asked questions
Good to know
- Departure times:
- 5:40 AM
- Age restrictions:
- 12 years old
- Food:
- Yes
- Transportation:
- Transporte included in the Puerto Viejo and Manzanillo area • 5:20 – 5:40 A.M. Pick-Ups in La Fortuna & Arenal Volcano • 6:00 – 6:30 A.M. Pick-ups in San José and the Southern Caribbean Coast.
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