Río Pacuare Whitewater Rafting, Turrialba

Located along Costa Rica's Caribbean slope near Turrialba is a deep gorge considered one of the best river-rafting sites in the world. The Río Pacuare runs 67 miles (107 km) from the Talamanca Mountains to the Caribbean in the southwest of the country. Along the way, it passes through some of the most diverse topography in Costa Rica.

After a guided orientation, you'll embark on an adrenaline-pumping trip down the river, which features Class II-IV rapids. Enjoy your first few quiet moments on the river because it's going to be an adrenaline-packed ride through Pacuare's renowned surges!

You'll be amazed at how easy (yet thrilling) it is to tackle these rapids with the help of your experienced guide. But rest assured, it's not all whitewater and adrenaline. You'll also enjoy serene moments between the rapids, where you can spot wildlife on the riverbanks, so keep an eye out for several species of tropical birds, as well as monkeys, ocelots, and (much less frequently) jaguars. 

One of the tour's highlights is passing through a stunning canyon complete with cascading waterfalls. Here, you can jump in for a swim or drift slowly through the calm waters as you take in the lush jungle scenery.

With the Río Pacuare, you have the option to enjoy a single day of rafting or to spend the night at a riverside ecolodge. If you decide to stay overnight, this excursion includes a scenic hike through the lodge's protected forests. You can explore idyllic waterfalls or simply relax and enjoy the nature and tranquility of this remote tropical dreamland.

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