The open-sided wooden pavilion at the overnight lodge, framed by red-leaved plants in the rainforest

Whitewater rafting · Overnight

Pacuare overnight

Two full days of whitewater, waterfalls and jungle on the Pacuare, with a night in a jungle cabin by the river.

Length
2 days / 1 night
Difficulty
Class III–IV
Where
Pacuare River, from Turrialba
Price
₡158,000 per person≈ US$350 at today's rate
Group minimum
2 people
Minimum age
12

Experience one of Costa Rica’s most unforgettable adventures: two full days of whitewater, waterfalls, and jungle immersion along the world-famous Pacuare River. You’ll paddle through exhilarating Class III–IV rapids surrounded by lush rainforest and towering canyon walls.

What the two days look like

  1. Pickup in Turrialba. Your meeting point or pickup location and exact departure time in Turrialba will be confirmed before your trip.
  2. Day 1: Class III–IV rapids through rainforest and canyon, with stops to swim beneath hidden waterfalls.
  3. A riverside lunch.
  4. Arrive at the jungle lodge in time for cocktail hour, then dinner and a short night hike beneath the rainforest canopy.
  5. Day 2: wake up to the sounds of tropical birds and the rush of the river, and have a full breakfast.
  6. Continue downstream through another stretch of rapids, with lunch on the final day.
  7. Take out near the Caribbean side, the perfect segue if you’re continuing toward the coast. Vehicle transport can be arranged so your car meets you at the end, saving hours of driving.

What’s included

  • Professional guides
  • Rafting equipment and safety gear
  • A night at the remote Pacuare River Ecolodge: a private cabin with a private bathroom, and bedding
  • Food on the river: lunch on day one, an evening happy hour and dinner, breakfast, and lunch on day two (happy hour can be mocktails on request)
  • Transport from Turrialba, with a vehicle transfer to the Caribbean side on request

What to bring

  • To wear on the river: a swimsuit with quick-drying clothes over it, and secure water shoes or sandals with a heel strap
  • In a small overnight bag: a second set of quick-drying clothes for the next day
  • A dry change of clothes and underwear for after rafting
  • Long pants and a long-sleeved shirt for the evening or the optional night walk
  • Secure shoes for walking around the lodge and on trails
  • A towel, sunscreen and insect repellent
  • A headlamp or flashlight
  • Any personal medication

Keep luggage compact and leave valuables at home. We store your overnight bag in a dry bag, and we can help coordinate your luggage if you’re traveling onward. Let us know ahead of time about food allergies, dietary needs or medical conditions.

Good to know

No. The ecolodge is remote and has no electricity, so charge your devices before the trip and bring a headlamp or flashlight. We’ll have extras if you need one.

In a screened jungle cabin with real beds, cozy blankets and a private bathroom with a toilet and shower. Expect the sound of the river, candlelight and a hearty breakfast before you paddle back into the canyon.

No. It’s for beginners and experienced paddlers alike, ages 12 and up.

Yes. You take out near the Caribbean side, and vehicle transport can be arranged so your car is waiting for you at the end.

5.0

36 Google reviews

2008

Guiding these rivers since

ACA

Certified · swiftwater rescue

What people say afterwards

“After more than 40 years as a whitewater guide, I can confidently say this company is truly exceptional.”

Google review · Pacuare

“Absolutely the folks you want to work with for a great and personalized Costa Rica experience.”

Google review · a week of kayaking

“We stayed overnight at an eco-lodge on the river tucked into a beautiful spot in the jungle. We would definitely do it again.”

Google review · 2-day Pacuare

Still working out what you want?

That’s most people. Fifteen minutes on a call and you’ll know whether we’re the right fit — and if we’re not, we’ll tell you who is.

More day trips

  • Rafters cheer with paddles raised as their blue raft bounces through a Pacuare River rapid, a guide steering at the back

    Class III–IV

    Pacuare, one day

    Class III–IV · approx. 4 hrs · age 12+

    ₡60,000≈ US$135

  • A green raft with five paddlers in red helmets floats down the wide, sunny Pejivalle River between green farm hills

    Class II–III

    Pejivalle, one day

    Class II–III · families · age 8+

    ₡45,700≈ US$100

  • Five canyoneers in blue helmets and harnesses pose on a rock ledge above a wide jungle waterfall

    All levels

    Canyoneering

    No experience needed · waterfall rappel · age 10+

    ₡43,000≈ US$95