La Fortuna: Peñas Blancas River Wildlife Float & Farm Snack

Summary

Wildlife spotting by boat on Peñas Blancas river plus homemade snacks

You’ll float quietly down the Peñas Blancas river near La Fortuna, watching for monkeys and birds while your guide shares stories and points out wildlife. After drifting past iguanas and rainforest trees, you’ll stop at a family farm for homemade Costa Rican snacks and coffee before heading back — it’s the kind of day that lingers in your mind long after.

What’s the experience like?

Hands gripping the edge of the raft, I watched our guide José flick his paddle just so — barely a sound as we drifted under low branches. He’d point out a flash of blue or a rustle and suddenly, there’d be a toucan or some tiny monkey watching us back. The air felt thick, green, almost sweet with that earthy smell you get after rain. I tried to whisper “pura vida” like he did, but it came out awkward and made him laugh. Maybe it’s just something you feel more than say.

The wildlife float tour from La Fortuna is slower than I expected — in a good way. We floated for what must’ve been two hours down the Peñas Blancas river, sometimes in total quiet except for bird calls or José’s stories about growing up nearby (he swears he can spot sloths from 50 meters). At one bend he handed me binoculars and there was an iguana sunning itself so still I thought it was fake. There’s something about moving with the water that makes you notice every small thing.

I didn’t really think about snacks until we pulled up at this little riverside farm at the end. The owner waved us over — his hands were stained from working with horses all morning, and his wife had this table set with coffee (made old-school, sock filter and all) and these sweet plantain things I’m still craving now. She smiled when I asked for seconds, like she knew that would happen. It’s funny how much those small moments stick with you after you leave.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Float down Peñas Blancas river

• Drive 20 minutes to river
• Float down river for two hours
• Observe wildlife and rainforest canopy
• Use binoculars to view tropical birds
• Relax while guide paddles boat
• Arrive at local working farm
• Enjoy homemade snacks and coffee

Top questions

How long is the Peñas Blancas river float tour?

The float portion lasts about two hours, plus time for transport and snacks at the farm.

Is hotel pickup included for this wildlife safari float?

Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included from selected hotels in La Fortuna.

What kind of wildlife can I see on this tour?

You may spot monkeys, tropical birds like toucans, iguanas, and other rainforest animals along the riverbanks.

Are snacks provided during the tour?

Yes, homemade Costa Rican snacks and coffee (or juice) are served at a local family farm after the river float.

Is this tour suitable for kids?

The tour is suitable for all fitness levels but requires one adult per child; extra fees apply if not met.

Does the tour run if it rains?

Yes, the wildlife safari float operates in all weather conditions; dress appropriately for rain or shine.

How far is the river from La Fortuna town?

The drive from La Fortuna to the Peñas Blancas river takes about 20 minutes by air-conditioned vehicle.

What’s included

Your day includes hotel pickup and drop-off from selected La Fortuna hotels, a guided wildlife float down the Peñas Blancas river with plenty of time to relax or take photos, plus homemade snacks and traditional Costa Rican coffee served at a local working farm before heading back.