Raft Costa Rica’s wild rivers

Rafting San José, Costa Rica

A sporting activity in the heart of nature departing from San José

Costa Rica is famous for its magnificent landscapes, rivers and landforms, which are largely fed by tropical rains and white water. What better way to go rafting, right?

Discover rafting

Rafting San José, Costa Rica

Flickr – David Berkowitz

Contrary to popular belief, rafting can be enjoyed all year round without any restrictions, whatever your level. When you decide to embark on a unique adventure like rafting in Costa Rica, you can be sure of working with the best professionals in the field.

Costa Rica’s varied terrain allows rafting to be practised at different levels, so that everyone can get the real thrills. There are 5 different levels of descent, with levels 1 to 3 requiring no previous experience.

To combine sport, adventure, thrills and nature observation, come and discover Costa Rica’s wild rivers: the rios Sarapiqui, Chirripo, Pacuare, Pejibaye and Savegre! You’ll be amazed by the ease with which you can enjoy this activity, but also by the breathtaking views and scenery. All equipment is provided, and you’ll be safely supervised by professionals.

A taste of the rivers

Rafting San José, Costa Rica

Flickr – David Berkowitz

If you’re looking for an adrenalin rush and a thrill, rafting is the perfect activity for you. You’ll be transported to unique vegetation and powerful waters. Here’s a brief description:

The Rio Pacuare: one of the most popular rafting sites in the world. You’ll descend along wooded gorges in incredible currents that will give you a thrill of a lifetime. The waterfalls on the Río Pacuare are sometimes several hundred meters long. This river is considered to be the most beautiful in Costa Rica, and the rafting trip down it lasts around 3h30 (the longest on offer).

Río Pejibaye: this river, around 1h30 from San José, offers clear, limpid waters. The rafting trip takes around 2 hours.

The rio Reventazon: its waters are fairly rough, and you already know you’re in a region where the elements can’t be tamed. It’s up to you to navigate between calm waters and more or less moderate rapids in a sublime landscape.

Río Savegre: here, it’s into the heart of the rainforest that you set off with your raft. Perfect for discovering local fauna and birds such as cormorants, kingfishers and toucans. Between two rafting sessions, you can take a dip in the natural pools at the foot of some of the waterfalls.

Rio Sarapiqui: this river flows through protected areas where you can observe a wide variety of tropical birds.



Whichever river you choose for your rafting trip in Costa Rica, you should be aware that there are full-day packages that include an early-morning departure from your hotel in San José, breakfast at the rafting center, the rafting trip itself with lunch at midday, and the return to the hotel in the afternoon. In short: an unforgettable day out!

Have you ever gone rafting in Costa Rica?