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Enjoy White Water Rafting in Costa Rica
White water rafting is one of the most popular adventure tours in Costa Rica, offering options for every level of traveler, from first-timers to experienced rafters. With rivers flowing from volcanic mountain ranges through rainforest valleys, the combination of world-class rapids and incredible scenery makes rafting here a must-do activity.
Costa Rica’s top rafting rivers include the Pacuare, Sarapiquí, Balsa, Savegre, Tenorio, and Río Colorado. Rapids are ranked from Class I (calm and easy) to Class V (expert-level). Families and beginners can enjoy gentler stretches on rivers like the Balsa or Sarapiquí, while thrill-seekers will find challenging runs on the Pacuare or Tenorio.
The Río Pacuare is often named one of the best rafting rivers in the world. It combines Class III and IV rapids with rainforest scenery, waterfalls, and plenty of wildlife, including toucans, monkeys, and sloths. Multi-day trips on the Pacuare often include overnight stays at remote eco-lodges in the jungle.
For those staying near Arenal, the Río Balsa offers a balanced experience with fun rapids and calmer sections to spot birds and wildlife. The Río Savegre, near Manuel Antonio, is known for its clean waters, friendly rapids, and stretches with names like “The Washing Machine” and “Screaming Child.” More experienced rafters often head to Guanacaste’s Río Tenorio, which includes a dramatic Class V drop.
Every rafting tour begins with a full safety briefing and practice session. Professional guides explain how to paddle as a team and steer the raft before heading downriver. Once on the water, you’ll learn quickly as your guide calls out commands and the group works together to move through the rapids. Tours include helmets, life jackets, paddles, and all necessary gear.
Rafting trips usually range from half-day outings to multi-day river safaris. Many tours also include meals, local cuisine, and sometimes the combine with extra activities like hiking or zip lining. Participants should bring swimwear, quick-drying clothes, rubber-soled shoes, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a change of clothes for after the trip.
Whether you’re looking for an introduction to rafting or a full adrenaline rush, Costa Rica’s rivers offer some of the best tropical rafting experiences anywhere in the world.
FAQ about White Water Rafting in Costa Rica
There are so many good choices to answer this question, but the Pacuare River gets the win because it’s been ranked internationally, by National Geographic, as one of the top five rivers in the world for white water rafting. There are 52 rapids in this one river. Not many other rivers in the world even come close to offering that. The fantastic views will take you far from city life. You will likely lose count of how many exciting animals you see, not to mention beautiful greenery and scenery, including waterfalls and a gorge. You’ll start with some light rapids and practice your skills, then come to some more fun, like the “Terciopelo snake” and “Double drop” rapids. Next, you come to a 150-foot waterfall before continuing to more challenging rapids.
Costa Rica white water rafting tours are safe because they all include a safety lesson before getting in the water. Part of the lesson is about maneuvering with your team safely, and another part is securing your life vest and helmet correctly. Tours of the more advanced rapids often have age restrictions and require swimming knowledge. All levels require the use of protective gear, like life jackets and helmets. Trained guides go with tours for added safety.
There are tours for all ages and many levels, from safari tubes floating to raging rapids and everything in between. The only thing to consider is whether you have the physical ability to paddle for the length of the tour because each member has to paddle at the same time to steer the raft correctly. Our experts can help you choose the location and rapid class best for the level of serenity or difficulty you prefer.
All the locations have their unique features, but one of the most fun options is to go rafting in multiple locations by using rafting as a form of transport from one place to the next. It’s a great story to tell loved ones back home and a memory you’ll surely keep forever. Your luggage will go in a van while you travel by raft.
