Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica

Brace yourself for the ride of a lifetime as you conquer the relentless Class III and IV rapids of the Rio Sarapiqui, one of Costa Rica’s most legendary whitewater challenges! The anticipation builds during a scenic one-hour drive past lush pineapple and papaya fields with the Arenal Volcano as your backdrop, leading you straight to the riverbanks where expert guides prep you for the intensity ahead. This full-day expedition is designed specifically for experienced rafters and physically fit thrill-seekers ready to paddle hard against the current; we handle all the logistics—including a dedicated safety kayaker, top-tier equipment, a refueling lunch, and round-trip transportation—so you can focus 100% on the white-knuckle action of the river!

On this Arenal Canopy and Rafting Combo Tour you’ll be picked up from your hotel in an air conditioned comfortable van and taken to your first exciting activity, extreme ziplining through the rainforest outside of La Fortuna. Afterwards you’ll be driven to the Balsa River for Class ll and Class lll white water rafting. From there you will visit a local farm for a hearty home cooked traditional Costa Rican meal to re-energize before being driven back to your hotel. Included in this fast paced, full day tour are transportation, bilingual guides, entrance fees, safety equipment, fruit snack, drinks and meal. One way transport from your hotel in the La Fortuna area can take between 30 minutes and 1.5 hours driving time depending on the location of your hotel. Combined time of both tours, lunch and all transportation can range between 7 and 9 hours total. It is important to wear enclosed sport shoes that can get wet. Please bring bathing suit, sun protection, bug repellent, clothes that can get wet and dry clothes to change into after the tour. Cameras are fine for the ziplining tour but not recommended while on the river. Weight restrictions may apply to persons weighing over 225 pounds. Minimum age for participants is 8 years old.

The Rio Balsa is an awesome river for class II and III whitewater rafting! On this thrilling day of adventure, you will outfitted with top guides and gear. The day starts off with a brief safety lesson and you are then on your way as your guide navigates you along this tropical river. This is a great river for first timers and those that want the thrills of rafting without going overboard - yes the pun was intended. Please inform us if you weigh over 200 pounds as restrictions may apply. No experience necessary on this half day adventure which includes transportation, safety kayaker, guides, lunch, and equipment.

Embark on an exhilarating whitewater rafting adventure on the Rio Sarapiqui, class II and III rapids, departing from La Fortuna. Known for its challenging waters and breathtaking scenery, the Sarapiqui River offers the ultimate Costa Rican rafting experience. Glide through thrilling rapids while surrounded by lush rainforest, spotting toucans, monkeys, and iguanas along the way. Led by experienced guides, this 7-hour (including transportation) excursion ensures both excitement and safety, with top-notch equipment provided. Take breaks to savor refreshing fruit and juices amidst the natural splendor. All-inclusive amenities such as transportation, life jackets, water refills (bring your own bottle), and a delicious Costa Rican lunch make this adventure complete. Join us for an unforgettable journey through the heart of Costa Rica's wilderness, where adrenaline meets nature in perfect harmony.

Gear up for an unforgettable day of adrenaline with this action-packed rappelling and rafting combo! Your morning starts with our professional bilingual guides leading you through a lush jungle canyon, where you’ll descend four breathtaking waterfall rappels before switching gears to navigate the rolling Class II and III rapids of the Rio Balsa. This all-inclusive adventure requires no prior experience and covers everything you need—from round-trip transportation and safety equipment to a delicious lunch and snacks—though we do ask that you inform us in advance if you weigh over 200 lbs so we can ensure proper gear accommodations. Join us for the ultimate way to experience the rainforest!

Dive into the pristine currents of the Rio Savegre for a full-day rafting expedition that perfectly balances family-friendly fun with real whitewater thrills! Your adventure kicks off with a rugged 4x4 journey through the rainforest to the thatched-roof pueblo of Silencio, where you’ll fuel up with a traditional breakfast and pre-order your victory lunch. Once on the water, expert guides and dedicated safety kayakers will lead you through a dynamic progression of Class II, III, and occasionally IV rapids, offering a ride that is exciting enough for adrenaline junkies yet accessible for fit first-timers and children ages 8 and up. Between the pulse-pounding sets, you’ll drift through a birdwatcher’s paradise—keeping eyes peeled for toucans, ospreys, and kingfishers—and stop to swim in crystal-clear pools or explore hidden waterfalls. This all-inclusive day covers round-trip transportation (varying from 15 minutes to 1.5 hours from Manuel Antonio), professional equipment, breakfast, lunch, and snacks, making it the ultimate introduction to Costa Rica's world-class rivers.

Splash into a unique blend of culture and adrenaline with this Rio Arenal Tubing adventure! Your journey begins with a scenic 15-minute trek to a traditional Maleku Villa, where you will gain rare insight into indigenous heritage, legends, and medicinal secrets before taking a final 10-minute hike to the water’s edge. There, the real excitement kicks in as you launch into the breathtaking river canyon, navigating a thrilling mix of scenic floats and heart-pumping Class I, II, and III rapids. This action-packed half-day tour includes round-trip transportation, expert guides, and all necessary equipment; if you wish to extend the fun, you can even arrange to stay and soak in the resort’s thermal hot springs—simply make a specific request to your guide on the day of the tour before the return trip begins.

Prepare for the whitewater expedition of a lifetime on the world-renowned Pacuare River, a powerhouse of adrenaline that challenges you with over 50 relentless Class III and IV rapids! Your full-day odyssey covers 18 kilometers of intense river action, where expert bilingual guides and dedicated safety kayakers lead you through steep rock canyons and past a stunning 150-foot waterfall. This comprehensive adventure spans 8 to 12 hours (with transfer times varying between 1.5 and 3.5 hours depending on your pickup in Alajuela, Cahuita, Escazu, Puerto Viejo, or San Jose) and includes everything you need: high-quality equipment, safety training, a hearty lunch, and access to showers and changing rooms to freshen up after the ride. Please arrive prepared with secured water shoes, a swimsuit, insect repellent, and a dry change of clothes (plus a plastic bag for wet gear), and kindly note that for your safety, the tour may be rerouted or cancelled if river conditions become hazardous.

Dive into the full spectrum of Costa Rica’s natural magic with this dynamic Rio Celeste Hiking and Tubing combo! Your expedition begins with an immersive trek through the lush rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park, where you’ll search for wildlife on your way to witness the thunderous, iconic blue waterfall—please note that while swimming is strictly prohibited inside the park to preserve this wonder, your chance to get wet is just around the corner. You’ll then swap your hiking boots for a tube to launch into the river downstream, navigating the currents for an exhilarating float through the jungle. While we always aim for that signature electric-turquoise hue, please remember that this color is a natural optical phenomenon heavily dependent on the weather; heavy rains can temporarily turn the water clear or muddy, though the adventure of the river remains unchanged. This full-day journey includes expert guides and scenic drives, promising an unforgettable immersion in nature.

Get ready for a heart-pounding day of adrenaline on the Rio Tenorio, widely celebrated as one of the most scenic and exhilarating whitewater rafting rivers in Costa Rica! After a comprehensive safety briefing, you will grab a paddle and plunge into the action, crashing and splashing through churning Class III and IV rapids surrounded by wild, tropical beauty. Due to the intensity of the river, this adventure is ideal for those in strong physical condition or travelers with prior rafting experience who are eager for a challenge. This all-inclusive tour provides certified guides, safety kayakers, all necessary equipment, snacks, and a rewarding lunch to refuel you after your conquest. Round-trip transportation is included from Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Jobo, Riu, Flamingo, and Papagayo; please be prepared for a drive of 1.5 to 2.5 hours each way to reach this remote river, making for a total adventure time of 6.5 to 8 hours. Don't forget to pack secure water shoes (no flip-flops!), a swimsuit, and a dry set of clothes for the comfortable ride home.

Immerse yourself in the verdant beauty of Guanacaste on this serene 2-hour Safari Float down the Corobicí or Tenorio River (depending on water levels), where you will drift through a towering "Dry Gallery Forest" shaded by massive Kapok, Fig, and Rubber trees. As you glide along the water, your professional naturalist guide will help you spot an abundance of wildlife inhabiting this special ecosystem, including monkeys, roosting bats, iguanas, and tropical birds, all while keeping a sharp lookout for the river's most famous residents: a thriving population of American Crocodiles. This journey perfectly blends deep relaxation with a splash of fun as you navigate safe Class I and II rapids, and comes complete with round-trip transportation, a delicious lunch, fruit juice, bottled water, and expert guiding for a stress-free day in nature.

Plunge into a surreal, fairytale world with this Rio Celeste Tubing adventure, where you will float down one of the most uniquely beautiful rivers on the planet! The excitement begins as you launch into the famous electric-blue waters, navigating a thrilling mix of gentle currents and fun-filled Class I and II rapids that bounce you through the heart of the lush rainforest. Surrounded by towering trees and the sounds of the jungle, this guided excursion offers the perfect balance of adrenaline and awe, coming complete with all necessary safety gear like helmets, life vests, and high-quality tubes. Please keep in mind, however, that nature is in charge here: the river’s signature turquoise hue is a natural optical phenomenon heavily dependent on weather, so while we always aim for the perfect blue, heavy rains can temporarily diminish the color or turn the water clear—though the thrill of the ride remains exactly the same!

Embark on an unforgettable river safari by raft at Maquenque Ecolodge in Boca Tapada, immersing yourself in the tranquility of the rainforest as you float down the Tres Amigos River. Delight in the wealth of flora and fauna that surrounds you, with opportunities to spot exotic animals such as crocodiles, turtles, iguanas, monkeys, and an array of water birds. Our experienced nature guides will provide insights into paddling techniques and safety regulations while offering fascinating information about the region and the diverse species you encounter along the way. Join us for a captivating journey through the heart of Costa Rica's wilderness, where every twist of the river unveils new wonders to discover.

Embark on an unforgettable whitewater rafting adventure on the Rio Coto Brus, perfect for thrill-seekers aged 14 and up! This full-day tour takes you deep into Amistad National Park, where you'll navigate 14 kilometers of untamed river, conquering challenging Class III and IV rapids amidst breathtaking scenery.  Experience the rush of paddling through pristine wilderness, surrounded by lush greenery, towering canyons, and cascading waterfalls.  Keep your eyes peeled for incredible wildlife encounters – monkeys, sloths, toucans, and other exotic creatures call this area home.  Our expert bilingual guides will ensure your safety and provide fascinating insights into the local ecosystem.  This tour includes a delicious picnic lunch, transportation, and all necessary rafting equipment.  Please note that previous rafting experience and confidence in swimming are required.  Bring secure footwear (no flip-flops!), a bathing suit, lightweight clothing, a change of clothes, a towel, sunscreen, a reusable water bottle, and a waterproof camera to capture the action!  Are you ready to conquer the Coto Brus? Book your adventure today!

Today is a fun filled day of adventure! The Rio Tenorio is one of the most scenic whitewater rafting rivers in Costa Rica. Your tour starts with an introduction to rafting and a brief safety lesson. You will then be on your way crashing and splashing through class III and IV rapids. The Rio Tenorio is an excellent river for those who have whitewater rafting experience or are in strong physical condition. This tour provides transportation from Tamarindo, Playa Grande, Jobo, Riu and the Flamingo and Papagayo areas. Also included are your certified safety kayaker guides, rafting equipment, snack, bottled water and lunch. One way transport can take between 1.5 to 2.5 hours to get to the river depending on your hotel location. The total time it takes to complete the rafting tour including round trip transportation can be between 6.5 to 8 hours. Please bring secure water shoes, clothes to get wet in, bathing suit and extra dry clothes to change into.

Gear up for the ultimate adrenaline rush with this Class III and IV whitewater rafting adventure on the roaring Rio Naranjo! Designed specifically for experienced rafters and thrill-seekers in top physical condition, this intense half-day tour sends you charging through jungle gorges and navigating rocky, winding curves on a wild 7-mile run from the mountains to sea level. Your safety is paramount, so you’ll be accompanied by professional guides and expert safety kayakers as you conquer the Class III and IV rapids. The tour includes high-quality equipment, fresh fruit, juice, and round-trip transportation from Manuel Antonio (extra fees apply for pickups in Jaco or Dominical). Please note that this high-intensity course is suitable for athletic children ages 8 and up, but availability is strictly seasonal: the river is typically runnable from May to December (dependent on rainfall), while the gentler Savegre River is recommended during the dry season (January–April).