The Pacuare cuts a deep canyon through the rainforest between Turrialba and Siquirres, on its way down to the Caribbean. Over more than 20 km (12 miles) of Class III and IV rapids, you pass waterfalls in the Huacas canyon and paddle through the narrow Dos Montañas gorge.
You do not need rafting experience, but you should be comfortable in the water. Certified river guides steer every raft and explain the paddle commands in a safety briefing before you launch. The day includes breakfast on the way and lunch by the river.
Highlights
- Class III and IV rapids in a deep rainforest canyon
- Waterfalls tumbling into the river along the Huacas canyon
- The narrow walls of the Dos Montañas gorge
- Calm stretches between rapids to look up at the forest
Know before you go
- You need to be at least 12, weigh between 30 and 125 kg and feel comfortable in the water. Rafting is not suitable during pregnancy.
- Trips run every day of the year. Rain changes the water level, so the rapids feel different from one season to the next.
- It can double as a travel day, with pickup in San José or La Fortuna and drop-off in Puerto Viejo. I arrange this when I plan your route.
How the day goes
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Hotel pickup
Between 5:30 and 7 am, depending on whether you stay in San José, La Fortuna or Puerto Viejo.
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Breakfast and safety briefing
Breakfast near the river, then your guides fit your helmet, life jacket and paddle and run through the safety briefing.
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Rafting the Pacuare
Three to four hours of rapids and calm stretches, past waterfalls and through the Dos Montañas gorge, with lunch by the river.
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Back to your hotel
Change into dry clothes and ride back, arriving in the late afternoon.
Included
- Round-trip transport from San José, La Fortuna or Puerto Viejo
- Certified river guides
- Helmet, life jacket and paddle
- Breakfast and lunch
Not included
- Tips
What to bring
- Quick-dry clothes or a swimsuit to raft in
- Sandals or water shoes that strap on firmly
- A dry change of clothes and a towel
- Sunscreen
- A strap for your glasses, if you wear them