Savegre Rafting in Costa Rica: Class 2 & 3 rapids

Six hours on the Savegre: rapids, a waterfall pool break, and lunch back at the start

Savegre rafting is a half-day white water activity on class 2 and 3 rapids in Costa Rica's South Pacific, led by certified guides with full safety gear and equipment provided. You paddle through hilly landscapes, stop halfway at a waterfall pool where wildlife sightings are possible, and finish with lunch at the restaurant. The river is family-friendly and suitable for all fitness levels; children must be at least 12 years old.

The Experience

The day starts with a 20-minute safety briefing from your certified guide, then an air-conditioned vehicle takes you through the hilly terrain to the Savegre River drop-off point. The guides here are highly experienced — your Head Guide is a national competitor on Costa Rica's rafting team — and they bring full safety equipment along with paddles and lifevests for everyone. You'll paddle class 2 and 3 rapids, which move fast enough to feel real but stay manageable for families and first-timers who have never done this before.

Halfway through the rafting, you pull over at a waterfall pool to rest and cool off. This is where wildlife sightings often happen — the river corridor draws birds and other animals, though nothing is guaranteed. The water is cold and the pool gives you a chance to swim or just float and take in the surroundings before getting back in the boat for the second half of the rapids.

When you finish, you paddle back to the starting point restaurant where lunch is waiting. The meal is included, along with a snack, so you're fed and ready to head back without stopping elsewhere. The whole experience runs about six hours from start to finish. Guides speak English and Spanish, and the activity suits all physical fitness levels, though it's not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries, pregnancy, or serious cardiovascular concerns.

What’s included

• All rafting equipment including paddles and lifevest.
• lunch and snack.
• air-conditioned vehicle to the river drop-off point.
• certified guide in English or Spanish.
• safety briefing and instruction.

Good to know

Easy physical levelPublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Costa Rica Explorer

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to paddle yourself rather than watch from a boat — the Savegre's class 2 and 3 rapids give you real control and speed without the extreme commitment of a harder river, and the waterfall pool break and included lunch mean the day is complete without extra stops or planning.

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Top questions

What are class 2 and 3 rapids like if I've never rafted before?

Class 2 and 3 rapids on the Savegre move fast and have waves and small drops, but they're designed for families and beginners. The certified guides manage the boat through the rougher sections, and you paddle alongside them. It's thrilling without being extreme.

Is there a chance to see wildlife on the Savegre River?

The Savegre River corridor is home to birds and other animals, and wildlife sightings are possible during the waterfall pool break halfway through the day. Nothing is guaranteed, but the river environment makes encounters likely.

What's included in the price, and do I need to bring anything?

Savegre rafting includes all rafting equipment (paddles, lifevest), lunch and a snack, an air-conditioned vehicle to and from the river, and a certified guide. You don't need to bring gear or arrange your own transport to the drop-off point.

How long does the whole activity take, and what time does it start?

The activity runs about six hours total, including the 20-minute safety briefing, the drive to the river, the rafting itself, the waterfall pool break, and lunch at the end. Specific start times depend on your booking option.

Can children do this rafting trip?

Children are welcome on Savegre rafting from age 12 and up. The class 2 and 3 rapids and family-friendly setup make it suitable for kids who meet the age requirement and can follow safety instructions.