Pacuare River Rafting from Turrialba: Class III & IV Rapids
Eighteen Miles of Class III & IV Rapids Through Costa Rica's Jungle
You paddle eighteen miles of class III and IV rapids through a jungle canyon, stopping for lunch and seeing waterfalls from the water. The guide handles the route and timing. You bring swimsuit, shoes with ankle straps, and a change of clothes. Transfer from Turrialba is included, so you don't arrange transport yourself.
Step-by-step itinerary
Rafting adventure on Pacuare River
- Meet specialized rafting guides
- Use top of the line equipment
- Raft class III and IV rapids
- Enjoy tropical flora and fauna
- View waterfalls along the river
- Have great food during the day
What’s included
Your day includes transfer from Turrialba, a professional rafting guide, all equipment (raft, paddles, life jacket), lunch, and all taxes and fees. You'll paddle eighteen miles of rapids with breaks for scenery and a meal stop on the river.
Times
- Every day 07:45 08:00
Before you book
Operated by Explornatura
Traveler reviews
The experience
Most river trips feel the same after the first hour. You're wet, the guide is pointing at birds, and you're wondering if you paid too much. The Pacuare is different. The rapids don't let up. You'll hit class III and class IV sections back-to-back across eighteen miles, which means your arms stay engaged and the adrenaline doesn't flatten into routine. The river cuts through a canyon thick with waterfalls and tropical growth, so between the hard paddling there's actual scenery, not just trees blurring past, but water falling from cliffs and the sound of it echoing off the rock walls.
The day starts with a transfer from Turrialba to the put-in near Tres Equis, about an hour east. Your guide will be someone who runs this river regularly, not a generalist who does five different tours. They'll walk you through the boat, check your fit in the raft, and explain what happens in each rapid before you hit it, which sounds basic, but it's the difference between feeling prepared and feeling thrown in. The equipment is solid. They're not running this on old gear. You'll paddle through the morning, stop for lunch on a beach or a flat section, and keep going into the afternoon. It's a full day, so pace matters, but the guide controls the intensity.
What makes this work is that the Pacuare doesn't have the flat stretches that kill momentum on other rivers. You're either paddling hard or you're floating through a section where the jungle is so close you can see individual plants. The water is cold and fast, so bring a change of clothes and a towel for after. You'll be soaked and you'll want to dry off before the drive back. Wear shoes with ankle straps, not flip-flops. The rocks are slick and a twisted ankle on the bank is a real problem when you're an hour from town.
If you've done other rafting trips and they felt safe but slow, this one will feel different. The guide is there to keep you safe, not to make it gentle. That's the trade.
Is this one for you?Pick this if you want real whitewater and don't mind being tired at the end: the continuous rapids and the full-day format are what make it feel like an actual adventure instead of a guided float.
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Top questions
What languages is the tour guided in?
Live guide in English and Spanish.
Can children come?
Yes. Ticket types: Child (12 years). Children under 12 can't be included in the booking.
How long is the full day on the river?
The tour is a full day of paddling with a lunch break included. Transfer time from Turrialba adds about an hour each way.
What's the difference between class III and class IV rapids?
Class III rapids are moderate with waves and some obstacles. Class IV rapids are harder with bigger waves and tighter passages. This river has both, so it's not beginner-level but doesn't require expert experience.
Is this safe for someone who's never rafted before?
Yes, if you're in good health and can swim. The guide will brief you on technique and safety before you start. Not recommended for people with spinal injuries, heart conditions, or pregnant travelers.
What's included in the price?
Transfer from Turrialba, professional guide, all equipment, lunch, and taxes and fees.
What should I bring?
Swimsuit, t-shirt, shorts, shoes with ankle straps (no flip-flops), sunblock, and a change of clothes plus a towel for after the trip.
How far is the put-in from Turrialba?
About an hour east, near the town of Tres Equis.
Can I do this if I'm not a strong swimmer?
You'll wear a life jacket the whole time, so swimming ability is less critical than comfort in the water. Tell the guide if you're nervous. They can adjust your position in the raft.
Pacuare River Rafting from Turrialba: Class III & IV Rapids
6h · EN · ES
from US$ 120 per person
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