Pacuare River: White Water Rafting Day Trip & Lunch from Turrialba

Summary

White water rapids, rainforest sounds and local lunch on the Pacuare

You’ll paddle 29km of the Pacuare River from Turrialba with a local guide, feeling the rush of white water rapids and drifting past waterfalls deep in rainforest. Afterward, dry off over a typical Costa Rican lunch with your crew—muddy shoes, tired arms, big smiles included.

What’s the experience like?

I still smell that earthy river scent when I think about our Pacuare rafting day. The helmets felt cold against my forehead at first—maybe nerves, maybe just the morning mist clinging to everything in Turrialba. Our guide, Diego, grinned like he’d seen a thousand nervous faces before. He cracked a joke about crocodiles (not real ones, he promised) and somehow that made me relax enough to notice how green everything was—like every shade you could imagine, all at once.

We set off with the river pulling us faster than I expected. The first rapid hit and I nearly lost my paddle—Diego yelled “adelante!” and we all scrambled to get in sync. There’s this weird calm between the rapids where you just drift and listen: birds you can’t name, water slapping rocks, someone’s nervous laugh (probably mine). At one point we passed a waterfall so thin it looked painted on the cliff. Diego pointed out a blue morpho butterfly—huge wings flashing electric blue—and for a second I forgot about paddling altogether.

Lunch came after what felt like hours but also not enough time. We were soaked and hungry and honestly just happy to sit down somewhere solid. The rice and beans tasted better than any fancy meal—maybe it was hunger or just being there with everyone swapping stories about who fell in (I didn’t, but almost). I caught myself thinking I’d do it again tomorrow if my arms would let me. You know?

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — White water rafting on Pacuare River

• Meet guides and receive instructions
• Raft 29km on Pacuare River
• Experience class II to V rapids
• See rainforest and waterfalls
• Enjoy typical Costarrican lunch

Top questions

How long is the Pacuare River rafting trip from Turrialba?

The rafting route covers 29 kilometers along the Pacuare River.

What class are the rapids on this day trip?

You’ll experience class II to V level rapids during the tour.

Is lunch included in the Pacuare River rafting tour?

Yes, a typical Costa Rican lunch is included at the end of your rafting trip.

Are guides certified for safety on this tour?

Yes, experienced and certified guides lead the rafting experience.

Is transportation provided from Turrialba?

Private transportation is included for pickup and drop-off in Turrialba.

What equipment is provided for rafting?

The tour provides helmets, life vests, and paddles for all participants.

Can children join this Pacuare River day trip?

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; check suitability for rafting age limits directly.

Is this tour suitable for people with health issues?

The tour isn’t recommended for travelers with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

What’s included

Your day includes private transportation from Turrialba, all necessary rafting gear like helmets and life vests, guidance from certified local experts throughout 29km of river rapids, plus a typical Costa Rican lunch waiting at the finish before heading back tired but happy.