White Water Rafting - Shoot the Rapids, See the Sights!

Rated as being among the best white water rafting spots in the world, Costa Rica is a paddler’s delight. Here rivers range from Class II to Class V rapids, with something for everyone. From families to adventure junkies and from novice rafters to those who enjoy the thrill of zipping down a river, Costa Rica offers some amazing white water rafting experiences.

With roaring rivers tumbling down from the mountainsides, get a different view of Costa Rica’s natural exotic beauty and amazing wildlife as you ride the many rivers here. There are a number of rivers that one can white water raft on. However, the Rios Pacuare, Reventazón, Sarapiqui and Corobici are some of the best for white water rafting in Costa Rica. The Pacuare is worth mentioning as it passes through primary and secondary forests and a beautiful steep gorge, and you’re likely to see plenty of wildlife.

Choose an experienced, recommended white water rafting company. An experienced guide means providing you with the proper equipment, rafts, paddles, life jackets and helmets. Also make sure that you choose a bilingual guide so that you know what’s going on and what you can expect as you paddle down the river.

With no prior experience necessary like in some adventure sports, white water rafting is meant for one and all. But do be careful as it can get pretty rough out there. Being a good swimmer is an essential pre-requisite for going white water rafting. But remember, runs are available for all levels of experience, so be sure to choose the right level, put on plenty of sun block and don’t forget to bring a spare change of clothes. AND ENJOY!

Costa Rica offers a river-rafting experience for everyone:
Class I Moving water with a few ripples and small waves. Few or no obstructions.
Class II Easy rapids with waves up to three feet, and wide, clear channels that are obvious without scouting. Some maneuvering is required.
Class III Rapids with high irregular waves often capable of swamping an open canoe. Narrow passages that often require complex maneuvering. May require scouting from shore.
Class IV Long, difficult rapids with constricted passages that often require precise maneuvering in very turbulent waters. Scouting from shore is often necessary. Generally not possible for open canoes. Experience required. Boaters in covered canoes and kayaks should be able to Eskimo roll.
Class V Extremely difficult, long, and very violent rapids with highly congested routes that nearly always must be scouted from shore. Ability to Eskimo roll is essential for kayaks and canoes. For expert rafters only.