Arenal: Peñas Blancas Safari Float & Wildlife with Snacks

Summary

Quiet raft float in Arenal rainforest spotting wildlife up close

You’ll float through Arenal’s rainforest on a gentle raft, spotting monkeys and sloths with a local guide who knows every twist of the Peñas Blancas River. Fresh tropical fruit and drinks break up the quiet drifting—and you’ll end up feeling connected to this slow-moving world in ways you don’t expect.

What’s the experience like?

“If you’re patient, the river always gives you something,” our guide José said, just as he slowed the raft under a tangle of branches. I remember the way he scanned the treetops—like he actually knew every leaf by name. We’d barely pushed off from the bank when he pointed out a sloth curled up so high I almost missed it (honestly, I was still figuring out how to sit without wobbling). The air was thick and green, with that wet-earth smell that clings to your shoes for hours after.

The safari float on the Peñas Blancas River is slower than I expected—no rapids or anything wild like that. But it’s kind of perfect. We drifted past huge kapok trees and rubber plants, their roots tangled at the water’s edge. José kept whispering animal names in Spanish and English—howler monkeys (we heard them before we saw them), iguanas sunning on low branches, even these tiny bats lined up like beads under a log. At one point I tried to spot a bird before he did… didn’t happen.

About halfway through, we stopped along a quiet bend where someone had set out fresh pineapple and watermelon—never tasted fruit so sweet, maybe because my hands were still damp from paddling. There was this moment when everyone just went silent except for the river sounds and some distant bird calls (I wish I could say which bird but I’m hopeless at that). On the way back, José told us how his grandfather used to fish here before there were tours at all. That stuck with me for some reason—I guess it made the place feel less like a backdrop and more like someone’s backyard.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting and wildlife spotting on river

• Float for approximately 2 hours
• Watch kapoks, figs, and shoreline trees
• Spot animals with expert guides
• Stop to eat tropical fruits and drink

Top questions

How long does the safari float on Peñas Blancas River last?

The actual floating part takes about 2 hours.

What animals can you see during this safari float?

You might see sloths, monkeys, bats, lizards, birds, iguanas, and more along the river.

Is hotel pickup included for this Arenal safari float?

Yes, pickup is included as part of your day trip booking.

Are snacks or drinks provided during the tour?

Yes, you’ll get snacks like tropical fruits and drinks during a stop along the river.

Is this safari float suitable for all fitness levels?

Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels but not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries.

What should I bring on this day trip from Arenal?

You’ll get water bottles and safety gear; just bring comfortable clothes and maybe insect repellent.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup in an air-conditioned vehicle from your hotel near Arenal, boat safety gear for floating down the Peñas Blancas River with a local guide who helps spot wildlife along the way, plus water bottles to keep you cool and fresh tropical fruit snacks during your riverside break before heading back.