2-Day Pacuare Whitewater Rafting

Duration2 days

TicketMobile or paper ticket accepted

LanguagesEnglish, Spanish

Group sizeUp to 10 travelers

Pickup offeredSee the meeting and pickup details below

Overview

On this two-day rafting adventure, you will journey through one of the world’s most spectacular whitewater rivers, combining thrilling rapids with moments of pure natural beauty. At the end of your rafting day, you will arrive at Ave Sol River Sanctuary, an exclusive jungle retreat nestled along the riverbanks and surrounded by pristine rainforest.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS
The Pacuare River: considered one of the most spectacular whitewater river journeys in the world and is widely celebrated for its pristine rainforest setting, dramatic canyon walls, and thrilling Class III and IV rapids that excite both beginners and experienced rafters alike. Flowing through unspoiled jungle and overlooked by cascading waterfalls, this iconic river offers not just an adrenaline-packed adventure, but also immersive contact with Costa Rica’s lush biodiversity and tropical landscapes.

Options

Triple Room | Standard Hotel Category

Triple Room | Standard Hotel
Pickup included

Single Room | Standard Hotel Category

Single Room | Standard Hotel
Pickup included

Double Room | Standard Hotel Category

Double Room | Standard Hotel
Pickup included

What's included

Professional river guides, rafting equipment, and a safety kayaker
One night's accommodation: Standard Hotel Category = Ave Sol River Sanctuary
Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River and rainforest guided nature walk (Day one)
Transportation from/to your hotel in the San José area
Whitewater rafting on the Pacuare River (Day 2)
Lunch
Dinner
Breakfast
Operated with an English and Spanish-speaking local guide
All activities mentioned in the programme:

International and domestic flights
Any visit not mentioned in the program
Porterage and gratuities
Expenditures of a personal nature, drinks and meals or items not stated explicitly in the program
Any alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks, mineral water, camera/video camera fee (if any)
Travel Insurance or any loss or extra cost arising due to unforeseen circumstances

What to expect

Day 1: SAN JOSE – FINCA LA CRUZ: WHITEWATER RAFTING – PACUARE RIVER REGION

Pacuare River
12h

Early in the morning, you'll be picked up from your hotel in San José and head east through Cartago and the towns of Paraíso, Cervantes, Juan Viñas and Turrialba. The journey takes around 2.5 hours and includes a stop for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast.

At Finca La Cruz, the rafting team will welcome you and provide a full safety briefing, covering paddling techniques and river safety before the adventure begins.

Day one includes rafting around 6 miles along the Pacuare River, tackling exciting rapids while surrounded by rainforest. After a buffet-style lunch by the river, you'll arrive at the jungle camp and set off on a guided rainforest walk of around 1.5 hours, seeing the region's remarkable wildlife and plant life.

Unwind in the evening with Happy Hour drinks and snacks before a candlelit dinner served with wine. Surrounded by the sights and sounds of the rainforest, it's the perfect way to end your first day on the Pacuare River.
Overnight at the Pacuare River region.

Day 2: PACUARE RIVER REGION: WHITEWATER RAFTING – SAN JOSE

Pacuare River
12h

Wake up to the soothing sounds of the river and enjoy a freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee along with a hearty breakfast at the camp. After breakfast, prepare for the final rafting section, where even more excitement and adventure await as you continue navigating the Pacuare’s dynamic rapids and scenic canyon stretches. The tour includes a buffet-style lunch on the river, approximately 5 hours of rafting, professional river guides, full rafting equipment, and a safety kayaker always accompanying the group.
At the end of the adventure, guests will have time to change into dry clothes before beginning the return journey to San José, arriving back at their hotel at approximately 6:00 pm.

Meeting and pickup

Pickup details

Early in the morning, guests are picked up at their hotel in San José. They will be contacted at least 48 hours before the activity start time to confirm the exact pick up time and place.

Additional information

Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Minimum age required 12 years old
Pacuare rafting is suitable for adventurous travelers aged 12 to 70 and requires a moderate level of physical fitness. It’s an unforgettable way to connect with Costa Rica’s wild jungle, experience world-class rapids, and enjoy breathtaking scenery far from the beaten tourist paths.
While U.S. dollars are widely accepted, carrying small amounts of local currency (colones) is useful for tips, small shops, and rural areas, and credit cards are commonly used throughout the country.
Respect for nature is key – keep a safe distance from wildlife, stay on marked trails, and use eco-friendly products when swimming near natural areas.
When traveling to Costa Rica, it’s important to be prepared for diverse microclimates, as conditions range from warm and humid lowlands to cool, misty highlands, so packing layers, comfortable walking shoes, a waterproof jacket, sunscreen, insect repellent, and swimwear is essential.

Cancellation policy

If you cancel at least 3 full day(s) before the scheduled departure time, you will receive a full refund.<br>If you cancel within 3 day(s) of the scheduled departure, you will receive a 0% refund.