Considered by many experienced white-water rafters to be the most scenic class III-IV rapids in the world,
the Pacuare River provides an adventurous ride filled with stunning natural beauty along the entire length of its turning, twisting rapids.
The Pacuare River runs from the country’s highest mountain range to the coastal lowlands of the Atlantic, through one of Costa Rica’s most important protected areas. These jungles are still
inhabited by the Cabecar Indians, whose traditional dwellings are spaced far apart over large distances. Located strategically inside this zone of protected wilderness is a very special jungle getaway, the Pacuare Lodge, a jungle oasis accessible to travelers through our multi-day rafting tours on the Pacuare River.
Professional guides will welcome adventurers upon arrival to the banks of the Pacuare River. Before beginning the river adventure, the experienced guides explain safety precautions. dwellings are spaced far apart over large distances. Located strategically inside this zone of protected wilderness is a very special jungle getaway, the Pacuare Lodge, a jungle oasis accessible to travelers through our multi-day rafting tours on the Pacuare River.
Professional guides will welcome adventurers upon arrival to the banks of the Pacuare River. Before beginning the river adventure, the experienced guides explain safety precautions.
Trip length: 18 miles
Difficulty: Class III-IV, moderate-difficult
Minimum age: 12 years old
Departures: Daily - all year.
DAY 1:

After being picked up at your hotel by a comfortable minibus, you are transported through the verdant Braulio Carrillo National Park and lush green farmlands at the base of Turrialba Volcano. Along the way the minibus stops for an authentic Costa Rican breakfast.
The Pacuare is a swiftly running and rapidly changing river, making this one of the most invigorating and intense rafting trips available anywhere in the world. As it winds deep inside one of Costa Rica’s most impressive primordial rainforests, adventurers will face the challenge of each huge wave, battling surging waters down miles of raging rapids, passing through steep canyons where cascading waterfalls plummet hundreds of feet, crashing thunderously into the rapidly river below.
Dense vegetation covers the steep banks along the river. The thick undergrowth provides shelter for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths and myriad other species of tropical animals and birds. As the rafts squeeze through narrow channels between huge lava boulders, the jungle rises above, towering hundreds of feet above the riverbanks.
The first day of rafting is a journey taking just over an hour and a half, plenty of time for adventurous souls to be tossed and turned as the rafts race forward through wave after wave of surging rapids. The first day ends at the
Pacuare Lodge, a jungle oasis nestled in the middle of an enchanting and captivating rainforest. Surrounded by ancient towering trees, a two-story jungle lodge houses rustic but comfortable dining facilities on the first floor, and plenty of relaxing hammocks in an open-air second floor lounge.
Modern wooden bungalows with thatched palm roofs are spaced out beneath the trees, providing both privacy and serenity. After a hearty lunch, guests can try the
Pacuare Canopy Adventure, take a guided hike into the rainforest, or just relax. Happy Hour begins as the sun descends, creating a comfortable atmosphere for guests to relax and share their experiences.
The dinner bell rings inviting guests to a candlelight dinner prepared by the guides, who are trained by a French chef. After dinner, guests can relax with others or head to the comfortable bungalows that await them, complete with private bathroom, comfortable beds and clean linen. Lanterns guide the way, for there is no electricity in the middle of this rainforest, hence no phones ringing, no faxes demanding attention, no television sets blaring - just peaceful, quiet solitude.