Savegre River Tubing: Rapids, Waterfall Stop & Local Guide

Summary

Float Savegre’s rapids with a guide, waterfall break & fresh fruit

You’ll float down Costa Rica’s Savegre River with a local guide, bouncing through Class II rapids surrounded by jungle sounds and bright birds. Pause for fresh fruit by a hidden waterfall before tackling more waves and swimming in natural pools. It’s messy fun — expect laughter, cold water, and moments that stick with you long after.

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the Savegre River to be so loud — not just the water, but the birds too. We’d left Quepos early, winding up into the green hills until the road just sort of disappeared into jungle. Our guide, Diego, handed out helmets and tubes with this grin like he knew what was coming. I was nervous (I mean, I’ve never really trusted inflatable things), but he just said, “Pura vida — you’ll see.” And then we were in.

The first few rapids were honestly more fun than scary. The water was cold enough to wake you up if you’d been sleepwalking through Costa Rica so far. Every time I spun around in my tube, there were flashes of blue morpho butterflies or something rustling in the trees overhead. At one point Diego pointed out a toucan — I only caught its tail but still felt weirdly proud. The main keyword here is river tubing Savegre — and it’s not like any lazy river back home.

About halfway down we stopped on these smooth rocks by the bank. There was a waterfall just a short walk away — louder than anything else around, mist everywhere. Someone handed me pineapple slices and cookies (the pineapple tasted like sunshine, no exaggeration). I tried to say “gracias” with my mouth full and got juice all over my chin. Nobody cared; everyone was grinning and sticky-fingered.

The last stretch had bigger waves and these little whirlpools that spun me around until I lost track of which way was downstream. Diego kept checking on us — he has this way of making you feel safe without hovering. We swam in one of the calmer pools before heading out again. Honestly, I still think about how quiet it felt floating there for a minute after all that noise.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Savegre River tubing adventure

• Travel 36 km from Quepos
• Prepare for river tubing
• Run rapids class I & II+
• Float through 8 km route
• Stop at waterfall for snack
• Continue descent with rapids
• Swim in natural river pools

Top questions

How long is the Savegre River tubing tour?

The tubing route covers about 8 kilometers and takes approximately 2 hours on the water.

Is hotel pickup included for the Savegre River tubing?

Pickup options are available nearby; check when booking for details.

What class are the rapids on this river tubing trip?

The tour runs through Class I and II+ rapids on the Savegre River.

Are snacks or refreshments provided during the tour?

Yes, fresh fruit, cookies, and juices are included as snacks during a stop by the riverbank.

Is this river tubing trip suitable for beginners?

You should have at least moderate physical fitness; not recommended for those with spinal injuries or poor cardiovascular health.

Can I swim during the Savegre River tubing adventure?

Yes, there are opportunities to swim in natural pools along the route.

What’s included

Your day includes all equipment for river tubing on the Savegre River with a local guide leading you through Class II rapids; there’s also a riverside stop where you’ll get fresh fruit, cookies, and juice before continuing your adventure downstream.