This is an adventure that can be enjoyed anywhere in the world, but whitewater rafting in Costa Rica is breathtaking as it is surrounded by extraordinary landscapes at every turn.

No matter which river you choose, fascinating rainforests border all rafting rivers. Join us in this comprehensive guide to whitewater rafting in Costa Rica!

Rafting is an exhilarating experience wherever you partake in it. It requires adrenaline and a daring attitude, and it is typically done in some of the most beautiful environments globally. Costa Rica’s mountainous terrain creates some of the best rafting rivers in the world.

Rafting in Costa Rica offers thrilling experiences in some of the most stunning settings. The country’s top rivers for whitewater rafting provide exciting adventures for both experts and novices. When you go whitewater rafting in Costa Rica, you will be immersed in pristine rainforests, delighting in wildlife sightings, virgin forests, and remote indigenous villages.

You will explore areas that are not often frequented by tourists, allowing you to experience Costa Rica in a unique way.

In Costa Rica, you can enjoy adventures and thrilling experiences in unspoiled nature while benefiting from the fantastic hospitality of Costa Ricans and the biodiversity that makes the country so renowned.

If you have never tried rafting, we’ll provide a brief introduction before presenting an overview of the best rafting rivers in Costa Rica and the available options.

What is whitewater rafting?

Whitewater rafting is a fun outdoor activity where an inflatable raft is used to navigate a river. Passengers sit on the raft and paddle through various flow sectors while the tour guide, typically positioned at the back, manages navigation. Costa Rican rivers offer some great hits and dips, creating exciting whitewater rafting experiences.

Rafting Grades of Difficulty

Whitewater rivers are ranked by difficulty according to the International Scale of River Difficulty. In Costa Rica, you’ll find rapids rated from I to V, with I being the most relaxed and suitable for small children or passengers who prefer scenery and wildlife over the thrill of white waters.

• Class I and II: Floating, easy-flowing trips.
• Class III: Rough white waters with some shallow areas.
• Class IV: Requires more paddling and participant interaction, adventurous and thrilling.
• Class V: Reserved for very experienced individuals; may include small waterfalls and continuous rapid water flow.

A river’s classification can change depending on the area where rafting is practiced and the time of year.

Safety Tips for Whitewater Rafting

• Pay attention to your guide’s directions and your surroundings.
• Use sunblock on all exposed skin.
• Wear proper footwear (waterproof if possible), such as strapped sandals or water shoes.
• Wear a long-sleeve shirt.
• Secure your glasses with a neck string if you wear them.

Types of Rafting Excursions

Your rafting experiences will vary depending on where you are staying, but you can choose from one-day, multi-day, or multi-adventure packages.

Is There a Better Time to Go Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica?

Yes and no. The best time for whitewater adventures is shortly after the rainy season when rivers are most abundant. November and February are favorable months for rafting in the Caribbean and Northern rivers.

Several rivers in Costa Rica are controlled by dams, allowing year-round rafting. Different regions of Costa Rica receive varying levels of rainfall during the rainy season, so the best time for river rafting depends on the area you are visiting.

It is not recommended to go rafting at the end of the rainy season, in October or early November, as rivers may become dangerous. If you are visiting in the last months of the year, check water levels before booking a tour.

You can also ask me, and I’ll contact some of the best rafting tour guides in the country to get real-time information.

The Best Rivers for Whitewater Rafting in Costa Rica

Costa Rica boasts some of the world’s best and safest whitewater rafting rivers. The classifications dictate age requirements, and there is a great variety of stretches, from elementary Class I and Class II to high-adrenaline stretches for expert rafters. The minimum age requirement is typically 8 or 12 years old, depending on weight.

Costa Rica offers more than a dozen established rafting rivers within a small range, with new ones added almost every year.

Where to Whitewater Raft in Costa Rica

The best rafting locations depend on where you are in Costa Rica and your desire to enjoy rafting. If you have rafted before and enjoyed it, you’ll want to do it again. Consult your Terranoval Travel Designer to find the perfect river for you based on your itinerary.

If you are a whitewater rafting enthusiast, you already know the river you must run in Costa Rica. Stay in the Central Valley, Turrialba Valley, or the Caribbean Plains to fully enjoy its wonders.

The Pacuare River

The Pacuare River deserves special mention as it is considered one of the ten best rivers for whitewater rafting in the world. With over 50 rapids, the Pacuare River traverses breathtaking rainforests, waterfalls, and canyons, offering an unforgettable experience for any rafting lover.

In this magnificent whitewater rafting experience, you may see toucans, sloths, aquatic birds, monkeys, and, if lucky, one of the elusive cats that inhabit these forests. This river is excellent for first-timers, but be prepared to paddle for almost five hours. You must be of the right age and in good physical condition to successfully navigate this fantastic river.

• Difficulty: Class III-IV
• Approximate river time: 4 hours
• Distance: 30 km/18 mi.
• Number of rapids: 52
• Minimum age: 12 years

San José and the Caribbean Area

Reventazón River, Class II/III rapids
The Reventazón River has rapids ranging from mild Class I bounces to turbulent Class V falls. Popular rafting trips usually cover the Florida and El Carmen sections, which are primarily Class II/III rapids. Rafting the Reventazón River is suitable for beginners, but seasoned rafters visiting with less experienced groups will also enjoy the day. This trip offers great opportunities to see monkeys, sloths, iguanas, and aquatic birds. During the rainy season, bright blue morpho butterflies border the shores.

If you are a pro, know that the Reventazón River is used as an alternative to the Pacuare during pouring rains and dangerous conditions. Ensure you plan another rafting day in your itinerary.

• Difficulty: Class II-III
• Approximate river time: 2 hours
• Distance: 10 km/7 mi.
• Number of rapids: 9
• Minimum age: 6 years

Rio Sarapiqui—Class II, III, and IV rapids—Year-round
The Sarapiqui River flows from the Central Volcanic Range to the border with Nicaragua, where it merges with the Sucio River and then the San Juan River. The river’s borders and dark green waters are teeming with tropical wildlife, making the softer rapids ideal for beginners and families.

Rafting at a slower pace allows more time to appreciate the beautiful surroundings. The Sarapiqui River is located in the northern area of Costa Rica, a less visited but impressive rainforest region. Whether you stay in lodges around the Sarapiqui River or come from the Central Valley or Arenal Volcano region, you’ll find great fun for all.

• Upper Sarapiquí:
  • Difficulty: Class III-IV
  • Approximate river time: 2.30 to 3 hours
  • Distance: 11 km/7 mi.
  • Number of rapids: Over 30
  • Minimum age: 15 years old
• Lower Sarapiquí River:
  • Difficulty: Class II-III
  • Approximate river time: 2 hours
  • Distance: 13 km/8 mi.
  • Number of rapids: Over 30
  • Minimum age: 9 years old

La Fortuna and Arenal Volcano

Rio Balsa—Class II and III—Year-round
Situated near the Arenal Volcano and La Fortuna, the Balsa River is the closest whitewater river to Costa Rica’s most famous volcano, offering beginner-level rapids. The water level of the Balsa River is controlled by a hydroelectric dam, making it the most reliable rafting option in the region. The Balsa River is perfect for those apprehensive about rafting in Costa Rica, providing an exciting yet not overpowering experience.

• Difficulty: Class II-III
• Approximate river time: 2 hours
• Distance: 13 km/8 mi.
• Number of rapids: Over 20
• Minimum age: 9 years old

Manuel Antonio and Central Pacific Region

Rio Savegre—Class II and III—May to January
The Savegre River is renowned for being the cleanest river in Costa Rica. As a whitewater river, it is an excellent option for families, with day trips that are not too challenging. Along with mellow rapids, you can take walks to discover waterfalls and swim in beautiful pools along the river. This free-flowing river is considered to have some of the clearest waters in Central America and is one of the closest whitewater rivers to the Manuel Antonio and Quepos area.

• Distance: 10 km/7 mi.
• Number of rapids: 9
• Difficulty: Class II-III
• Approximate river time: 2 hours
• Minimum age: 8 years

Rio Naranjo—Class III and IV—May to January
This ride goes into the heart of Costa Rica, starting in the rainforest and descending into farming regions. It is perfect for beginners in good physical condition or experienced rafters seeking adventure in Manuel Antonio or the Central Pacific.

• Distance: 10 km/7 mi.
• Number of rapids: 9
• Difficulty: Class III-IV
• Approximate river time: 2 hours
• Minimum age: 8 years

Guanacaste

Rio Tenorio—Class III and IV
Featuring some of the most exciting Class IV rapids in Costa Rica, the Tenorio River is ideal for experienced rafters and kayakers. The Tenorio River will test your bravery with its continuous challenges as you navigate intense, tricky rapids. All participants must be in good physical condition.

This is the largest whitewater river in the northern Pacific region, originating from the mountain range and the Tenorio Volcano. The deeply carved canyon is stunning, and between the exhilarating rapids, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to soak up the gorgeous natural surroundings.

• Difficulty: Class III-IV
• Approximate river time: 2.5 hours
• Distance: 12 km/7.5 mi.
• Number of rapids: 22, including the 12-foot waterfall drop, Cascabel Falls
• Minimum age: 12 years

To Wrap It Up

There are more rivers for whitewater rafting than the ones listed here, but these are some of the most important. While Giotours doesn’t operate rafting tours, we know the best operators and can help you find the perfect whitewater rafting in Costa Rica

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