1 day
Duration
12+
Age

Pacuare is world famous for its sheer beauty. A true river gorge flanked by steep, green walls and exciting white water. It is not an overly challenging river, but it is abundant in rapids giving you an thrilling adventure. The 18 mile one day run includes a total of 52 rapids. Few rivers in the world can offer you so many. Upon arrival to the river you will get geared up with a life jacket, helmet and paddle and then receive a briefing with a full safety orientation. Finally, it will be time to take off down the rapids!

The first 4 miles consist of fun class II-III rapids which is a perfect time to test your new river skills and gain confidence in your team. Here you can find pockets of extremely beautiful secondary forest. After about 40 minutes we will enter the famous Pacuare River Gorge, which is 5 miles of some of the best white water Costa Rica has to offer. 

After the gorge, the rivers opens up to a 5 mile stretch on the Valle del Pacuare where the river has a different character. It is wide open, which gives you the chance to rest a bit and take the opportunity to do some wildlife spotting.We finish in Siquirres, at a private Exploration Center where you can take a shower, change and enjoy the gardens and terrace while having a beer or two and reflecting with your new friends about the great adventure you just shared.

DEPARTURE/RETURN LOCATION Daily Departures to/from San Jose, Caribbean Coast and Arenal Volcano,
DEPARTURE TIME 6:00 – 6:30 am , Pick- Ups in San José and Southern Caribbean Coast. In Arenal Pick-Ups start earlier, approximately  5:20 – 5:40 a.m.
RETURN TIME Approximately 5:30 PM
BRING Come with rafting cloths on (light shoes that will stay on, swim suit, shorts,nylon shirt) sunscreen, water bottle, change of clothes, towel, insect repellent, and a credit card to buy photos, souvenirs or drinks. All luggage will be kept in lockers.
INCLUDED
Transportation Breakfast and Lunch
Equipment Professional River Guides
NOT INCLUDED
Private Tour
Guide gratuity

 

Additional information

LocationCahuita, Puerto Viejo, San Jose, La Fortuna
Physicality4/5
DatesYear-round

Approximate Itinerary for Pacuare River 1 Day Expeditions

6:00 – 6:30 am: Pick- Ups in San José and Southern Caribbean Coast. In Arenal Pick-Ups start earlier, approximately  5:20 – 5:40 a.m.

6:30 – 8:15 am: In route to “Exploration Center” (Siquirres)

8:15 – 9:00 am: Breakfast at “Exploration Center”

9:00 – 9:30 am: In route “Exploration Center” – River Access

9:30 – 10:15 am: Preparation for the Descent (safety orientation, paddle practice)

10:15 – 2:15 pm: River Descent (including lunch)

2:15 – 3:00 pm: Return to our “Exploration Center” with time to shower, change and enjoy a beverage.

3:00 – 5:30 pm: In route “Exploration Center” – San José, Southern Caribbean Coast and Arenal Volcano Area

Note: Pick Ups in Cahuíta would be at 6:50 am