White Water Tubing Balsa River La Fortuna – Family Adventure Tour

Summary

La Fortuna River Tubing: Guided Rapids & Local Lunch

If you want a fun way to cool off near La Fortuna without needing any special skills, this white water tubing trip is perfect. You'll float through gentle rapids on the Balsa River with friendly guides, snack on fresh fruit riverside, and finish with an organic lunch overlooking Arenal Volcano.

What’s the experience like?

Right after checking in at the office—where I was grateful for the clean bathrooms and a quick spot to change—we hopped into the van. The ride out of La Fortuna was lively, with our guide cracking jokes and pointing out the bright blue church peeking over the park. You could hear the morning birds even through the windows. Passing El Salto Waterfall, I caught a glimpse of kids already splashing around, their laughter mixing with the rush of water.

The real fun started once we reached the Balsa River. The guides handed out helmets and gave us a quick rundown—nothing too serious, but enough to make me feel ready. The river looked calm at first, but as soon as we pushed off in our tubes, you could feel that tug from the current. It’s not wild like rafting, but those Class I-II rapids still get your heart going. At one point, I spun around and ended up facing backwards—my friends got a good laugh out of that.

Halfway down, we pulled over onto a rocky bank for a fruit break. Pineapple never tastes as sweet as it does when you’re dripping wet and grinning from ear to ear. Back on the river, there were a few more bumpy spots before things slowed down again. By then, my arms were tired but I didn’t really care—I was soaked anyway and it felt great under the Costa Rican sun.

Lunch was at this two-story spot with huge windows looking straight at Arenal Volcano (if you’re lucky and it’s clear). It’s buffet style—lots of veggies and some local chicken stew—and honestly, after all that paddling, I ate way more than usual. We swapped stories about who fell off their tube most often before heading back to town.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — White Water Tubing Adventure

• Use bathroom and changing rooms at office
• Drive through La Fortuna town, see park and church
• Drive by El Salto Waterfall
• Enjoy organic buffet lunch with Arenal Volcano view

Top questions

Is this tour suitable for kids or older adults?

Yes! As long as everyone is reasonably fit and comfortable in water, it's great for families or groups of all ages. Just avoid if you have back or heart issues.

How wet will I get during tubing?

You’ll get soaked—no way around it! Wear your swimsuit under shorts and bring dry clothes for after.

What should I bring along?

Bring swimwear, sunscreen, shoes that stay on (like water shoes), and a change of clothes. Leave valuables at your hotel if possible.

Is lunch included? What kind of food is served?

Yes! Lunch is buffet-style with local dishes—think rice, beans, veggies, chicken stew—and plenty of fresh fruit.

What’s included

Your tour covers hotel pick-up/drop-off in La Fortuna area, all transportation to and from the river, safety gear for tubing (helmets and life jackets), fresh fruit during your riverside break, plus an organic buffet lunch with volcano views. Friendly guides are with you every step of the way.