La Fortuna: Balsa River Whitewater Rafting & Lunch Pickup

Summary

Raft Costa Rica’s Balsa River rapids and rainforest wildlife

You’ll paddle through lively Class 2-3 rapids on Costa Rica’s Balsa River near La Fortuna, spotting monkeys or sloths if you’re lucky. With a local guide leading every splash and laugh, you’ll end up sharing lunch by El Salto waterfall—wet shoes and big smiles included. This is one day trip where you’ll feel both thrill and calm in equal measure.

What’s the experience like?

It’s all noise at first—water smacking rocks, shouts bouncing off the green walls, and our guide José grinning like he’s done this a thousand times (he probably has). I remember my paddle slipping in my hands, cold river spray mixing with sunscreen on my arms. We’d barely left La Fortuna when the van windows fogged up from the morning rain, but now it was just us and the Balsa River, all tangled up in that bright, leafy mess you only get in Costa Rica.

I kept thinking I’d spot a monkey before anyone else, but José pointed out a sloth hanging upside down before I even noticed the tree. He made a joke about how slow they move—honestly, I felt slower than that sloth trying to keep my helmet straight after each rapid. The Class 2-3 rapids weren’t too wild (my heart still raced), but there were these calm patches where everything went quiet except for birds and that low hum of water. Someone behind me yelled when we hit a big wave—I laughed so hard I almost swallowed river water.

The best part? After we stumbled out of our raft, shoes full of sand and hair stuck to our faces, we ended up at this place called Hunters and Gatherers right next to El Salto waterfall. It smelled like grilled chicken and cilantro—my shirt was still wet but I didn’t care. Lunch tasted better than it should’ve after paddling all morning. They said we could stay longer at the swimming hole if we wanted; some people did. Honestly, I still think about that view—the way the sun hit the water right as we sat down to eat. Not sure photos do it justice.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Whitewater rafting and lunch

• Travel to Balsa River
• Raft Class II-III rapids
• Spot wildlife along river
• Enjoy lunch at Hunters and Gatherers
• Optional swim at El Salto hole
• Return to La Fortuna hotel

Top questions

How far is the Balsa River from La Fortuna?

The Balsa River is about 45 minutes by van from La Fortuna.

What class are the rapids on this rafting tour?

This whitewater rafting tour covers Class II and III rapids on the Balsa River.

Is hotel pickup included for this day trip?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included for La Fortuna area hotels.

Is lunch provided during the tour?

Yes, lunch is served at Hunters and Gatherers restaurant next to El Salto Swimming Hole after rafting.

Are there changing rooms available?

Yes, private restrooms and changing rooms are available at exclusive entrances/exits along the river.

Can I swim at El Salto after rafting?

Yes, you can hang out at El Salto Swimming Hole after lunch if you want to stay longer.

Is this rafting tour suitable for beginners?

The Class 2-3 rapids are considered family-friendly but require moderate physical fitness.

Are there age or health restrictions for this activity?

This tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal/cardiovascular issues or over age 65.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from La Fortuna area lodging, all safety equipment for rafting on the Balsa River with a local guide, access to private restrooms and changing rooms along exclusive river entrances and exits, plus a hearty lunch at Hunters and Gatherers restaurant beside El Salto waterfall. A photographer joins too—photos are available for purchase if you want proof of your paddling face before heading back.