Rio Balsa Whitewater Rafting Tour from La Fortuna

La Fortuna 4 hours

Become a jungle explorer for the day on this rafting tour through Costa Rica’s rain forest. Your guide will pick you up at your La Fortuna hotel for the scenic drive to the winding Rio Balsa. You’ll receive a short safety training at the launch site and gear up with a paddle, life vest and helmet. If it’s your first time rafting, not to worry — your guide will demonstrate paddling techniques and share basic rafting tips. No need to bring a camera and risk getting it wet, as a photographer will accompany you on the trip, and you’ll have the option to purchase photos at the end of the tour. Next, set out on the river and begin your 6-mile (10-km) descent through the rapids. Water levels vary depending on rainfall, so the river may be shallow or deep. The first half of the ride is the most challenging. Prepare to get wet as your guide helps you navigate Class III rapids like the Congo Loco and Rock around the Croc (don’t panic, as no crocodiles are actually found here). Take a break after successfully clearing these rapids with a riverbank pit stop and snack of fresh fruit. Relax in the shade of towering trees or enjoy a refreshing swim in the river. Hop back in your raft for the continued journey down more mellow, Class II rapids. Soak up the passing tropical scenery and keep an eye out for native rain forest residents including monkeys, sloths, butterflies and colorful birds. At the end of your rafting journey, step back onto solid ground and enjoy a traditional lunch at a local restaurant. You can shower and change into dry clothes before the return drive to La Fortuna, where you’ll be dropped off at your hotel.


White-water rafting trip down the Rio Balsa in Costa Rica

Paddle your way through Class II and III rapids surrounded by lush rainforest

Spot wildlife like birds, butterflies, sloths and monkeys as you journey down the river

Tuck into a satisfying Costa Rican lunch at a rustic local restaurant after rafting

Safety briefing, gear and instruction provided by first aid–certified professional guides

Snacks, lunch and round-trip transport from most La Fortuna hotels included

Local guide

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Use of safety equipment

Lunch

Photographer (photos available for purchase)

Exclusions

Gratuities

Additional Information

  • Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
  • Not recommended for pregnant travelers
  • Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
  • Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
  • Not recommended for people over 65
  • Ask about our "Pure Private - Pura Vida" upgrades to make your tour completely PRIVATE. We also have locally-handmade, 3-ply fabric masks and plastic masks for sale. Let us know if there is anything we can assist with for making your travels as safe & comfortable as possible.
La Fortuna, Alajuela Province Get directions

A full refund will apply if you cancel more than a day before the activity start time.

No refund is possible if you cancel less than a day before the activity start time.

Guide Languages

  • English
  • Spanish
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