Full-Day Pacuare River Class III–IV Rafting Adventure
Experience a full day of whitewater adventure on Costa Rica’s legendary Pacuare River:
- Paddle approximately 18–19 miles of Class III–IV rapids
- Travel through rainforest gorges and cascading waterfalls
- Raft with professional bilingual certified guides
- Enjoy an included Costa Rican breakfast and lunch
- Use professional rafting and safety equipment
- Receive transportation from selected San José hotels
$139.00
Full-Day Pacuare River Class III–IV Rafting Adventure
Experience Costa Rica’s legendary Pacuare River on an exhilarating full-day adventure from San José. Paddle approximately 18–19 miles through Class III–IV rapids, rainforest gorges and cascading waterfalls with certified bilingual guides. Breakfast, lunch, rafting equipment and selected San José hotel transportation are included.
What You Can Expect
Your adventure begins with early pickup from a selected San José hotel and comfortable transportation toward Costa Rica’s Caribbean slope. Stop at the operations center for an included traditional Costa Rican breakfast before changing into rafting clothing.
At the river, certified bilingual guides provide equipment, paddling instruction and a comprehensive safety briefing. Work together through famous Class III–IV rapids while passing steep rainforest walls, waterfalls, calmer pools and the dramatic Pacuare Gorge.
After completing the river section, return to the operations center for an included lunch, showers and changing time. Relax during the return journey to San José.
Tour Itinerary
Early San José Pickup
Depart from a confirmed San José metro-area hotel and travel toward the Caribbean slope. Exact pickup time is provided with confirmation.
Breakfast and River Preparation
Enjoy an included Costa Rican breakfast at the operations center, change clothes and continue to the river put-in.
Safety Briefing
Receive your helmet, paddle and flotation device followed by instruction on commands, teamwork and river safety.
Pacuare River Rafting
Paddle approximately 18–19 miles through Class III–IV whitewater, rainforest gorges, waterfalls and calmer scenic stretches.
Lunch and Return
Finish with an included hot lunch or seasonal riverside picnic, shower and change before returning to San José.
The route, stops, meal location and timing may change with river, weather, traffic and operational conditions.
What’s Included
- Round-trip transportation from selected San José metro-area hotels
- Professional bilingual certified rafting guides
- Raft, helmet, paddle and approved flotation device
- Safety orientation and paddling instruction
- Approximately 3½ hours of guided rafting
- Traditional Costa Rican breakfast
- Hot lunch or seasonal riverside picnic
- Showers, changing rooms and secure lockers at the operations center
What’s Not Included
- Pickup outside the confirmed service area
- Alcoholic and specialty beverages
- Professional photographs, souvenirs and personal purchases
- Travel or medical insurance
- Guide gratuities
Pickup Information
Pickup is offered from selected San José metro-area hotels. Enter the complete hotel name and address when booking. The exact time and meeting point will be confirmed after reservation.
Pickup availability is not guaranteed for every hotel or private rental. A nearby meeting point may be assigned.
Duration and Return
The complete experience lasts approximately 12 hours, including transportation, breakfast, preparation, about 3½ hours on the river, lunch and changing time.
Return time varies with traffic, river level, weather and group pace. Do not schedule a flight or time-sensitive activity immediately afterward.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and quick-drying clothing
- Secure water shoes or athletic shoes that can get wet
- Dry change of clothes and extra shoes
- Towel
- Eco-friendly sunscreen and biodegradable insect repellent
- Reusable water bottle
- Waterproof camera or phone case with secure strap
- Cash or card for optional purchases and gratuities
Flip-flops and loose sandals are not suitable for rafting.
Additional Information
- No previous rafting experience is required, but good general fitness and comfort in moving water are important.
- The listed minimum age is 12 during the dry season and 14 during the rainy season; the operator may adjust it according to conditions.
- Participants must follow guide instructions and wear all provided safety equipment.
- The tour is not recommended during pregnancy.
- Travelers with significant heart, back, neck, mobility or medical concerns should obtain medical advice before booking.
- Wildlife sightings and waterfall stops are possible but not guaranteed.
Cancellation Policy
Review the cancellation deadline and penalties shown during checkout before payment. The operator may modify, postpone or cancel the experience when river, weather or safety conditions require it. Any refund or rescheduling follows the confirmed booking terms.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this tour suitable for beginners?
Previous experience is not required, but guests need good general fitness, must be comfortable in moving water and must follow guide commands.
What is the minimum age?
The listed minimum is 12 during the dry season and 14 during the rainy season. Final eligibility depends on current conditions.
How long is the tour?
The complete experience lasts approximately 12 hours, with about 3½ hours spent rafting.
Are breakfast and lunch included?
Yes. A traditional Costa Rican breakfast and lunch are included.
When should I reserve?
Book before arriving in Costa Rica whenever possible, especially for high, peak and holiday dates.
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| Province | Limón |
|---|---|
| Location | Pacuare River and Pacuare Gorge, Caribbean slope |
| Pickup Area | Selected San José metro-area hotels |
| Total Duration | Approximately 12 hours |
| River Time | Approximately 3½ hours |
| River Distance | Approximately 18–19 miles / 29–30 kilometers |
| Rapids | Class III–IV |
| Difficulty | Challenging |
| Experience | No previous rafting experience required; good fitness recommended |
| Minimum Age | 12 dry season / 14 rainy season, subject to conditions |
| Languages | English and Spanish |
| Meals | Breakfast and lunch included |
| Transportation | Round-trip service from confirmed San José pickup points |
| Price | Recommended: $139 per person |









Zipy Ride –
This was one of the most exciting experiences of our Costa Rica trip. The guides were professional, encouraging and focused on safety from the briefing through the final rapid. The Pacuare Gorge, waterfalls and rainforest scenery were spectacular, and the calmer sections gave us time to appreciate the surroundings. Breakfast, lunch and transportation made the long day easy to manage. I highly recommend this tour to active travelers who want a genuine Costa Rica adventure.
Zipy Ride –