La Fortuna: Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting & Lunch

Summary

White water rafting balsa river with local fruit stop and lunch

You’ll charge down Costa Rica’s Upper Balsa River on Class 3/4 white water rapids with a lively local guide from La Fortuna. Expect riverside fruit breaks (the pineapple is unreal), fresh towels after your run, and a big Costa Rican lunch before heading back. It’s loud, messy fun — but there are these quiet moments too that kind of sneak up on you.

What’s the experience like?

I was already dripping wet before we even hit the first big rapid — I think it was called “Congo Loco,” or at least that’s what our guide, Diego, shouted over the roar. The Balsa River outside La Fortuna doesn’t really give you much time to settle in; one minute you’re laughing at someone’s awkward helmet strap, and the next you’re gripping your paddle so tight your knuckles ache. The water smells fresh, almost green, if that makes sense. There’s this mix of mud and rain and something floral I couldn’t quite place. I remember Diego grinning at us before a sharp bend — he said something about “pura vida” and then just winked. That stuck with me.

Somewhere halfway through (I lost track of time — it all blurs), we pulled up to a rocky bank for a break. The sun came out for maybe five minutes, just enough to steam off our soaked shirts. Someone handed around slices of pineapple and watermelon — honestly, I don’t know if fruit ever tasted that good. Sweet, cold, sticky fingers. There was this moment where everyone got quiet except for the river noise and a couple birds yelling overhead. I tried swimming but mostly just floated, looking up at trees tangled overhead like they were holding the sky together.

After the last stretch (my arms were jelly by then), they gave us towels that actually smelled clean — small detail but I noticed. We piled into the van back toward La Fortuna, all talking over each other about who almost fell out or who paddled backwards (me). Lunch was at this roadside place with mismatched chairs and a plate of casado that looked simple but hit every spot — rice, beans, plantains, chicken if you wanted it. I still think about that view from their porch: mist curling up off the hills behind us while everyone just ate in comfortable silence for once.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Class IV White Water Rafting Adventure

• Depart La Fortuna at 9:00 am
• Raft 15 kilometers on Balsa River
• Stop to rest and swim
• Enjoy fresh Costa Rica fruit
• Receive towel and water bottle
• Have Costa Rican style lunch
• Return to La Fortuna at 1:30 pm

Top questions

Is white water rafting on the Balsa River suitable for beginners?

This tour is best for those in good physical condition; it’s not recommended for complete beginners or anyone under 12 years old.

What class are the rapids on this Balsa River rafting tour?

The Upper Balsa River offers Class 3 and Class 4 rapids during this day trip from La Fortuna.

Does the tour include hotel pickup in La Fortuna?

Yes, roundtrip transportation is included from hotels within 6 km of the main office in La Fortuna.

Is lunch provided after rafting?

Yes, you’ll get a traditional Costa Rican lunch (casado) at a local restaurant after rafting.

Are vegetarian meal options available?

Vegetarian options are available if requested when booking.

How long does the white water rafting last?

The river section is about 15 kilometers; total tour time is roughly five hours including transfers and lunch.

What should I bring for rafting on the Balsa River?

You should dress appropriately for getting wet; towels are provided after rafting.

What’s included

Your day includes pickup from most La Fortuna hotels, all necessary equipment and safety gear for rafting on the Upper Balsa River, guidance from experienced locals throughout your Class 3/4 adventure, fresh fruit served riverside during a break mid-journey, clean towels afterward to dry off, bottled water to keep you going, and finally a traditional Costa Rican casado lunch at a nearby restaurant before returning to town.