Costa Rica, rafting on the Rio Pacuare

Example of a tailor-made journey, fully customisable

Country

Costa Rica

Suggested duration

4 days / 3 nights

The spirit of the journey

Costa Rica is one of the world's most renowned destinations for rafting, thanks to its volcanic relief and numerous waterways. The Rio Pacuare is a run of remarkable natural beauty. The river winds its way through an impressive tropical forest punctuated by dizzying waterfalls. Rafting here combines discovery of the humid tropical forest with a strong dose of adrenaline.

Your lodge is accessible only by river. It is tucked away in an isolated spot, an idyllic setting at the heart of dense jungle. You'll have the opportunity to hike through the forest on the lodge's trails, in a dreamlike setting.

Rafting is, above all, about teamwork and conviviality.

Day by day

Example of a tailor-made journey, fully customisable

The first night is spent in the capital, San Jose, in a charming small hotel in the historic centre, as the departure for the Rio Pacuare the next day is early.

Early morning departure from the hotel with the rafting team to the put-in point for the descent of the Rio Pacuare. You’re off for 2 hours of descent. The start of the run allows you to adjust and prepare for the rapids you’ll encounter further on, so everyone can progressively discover the techniques and sensations of rafting. The descent is strikingly beautiful, and the arrival at the lodge is simply stunning.

After your stay, it’s time to continue the run: the descent picks up pace and becomes more athletic. It is punctuated by stops to take in the dizzying waterfalls.

Rafting & Duckies à Pacuare, Costa Rica © Pacuare

Rafting sur le Rio Pacuare

The Pacuare river winds through one of Costa Rica's most striking stretches of primary forest. 30 kilometres of white water, classes III and IV, open to anyone aged 12 and over, make it the world's 5th-ranked river for rafting. Guided by an experienced team, after a safety briefing and once fully equipped, you take on the first rapids. The bold sit at the front, the more relaxed in the middle, and the most technical paddlers at the back. The pace picks up as the river cuts deeper into dense forest, punctuated by waterfalls appearing out of nowhere and churning rapids. The day's goal is to reach the riverside lodge, arrived at after a 2-hour descent.
After your stay at the secluded riverside lodge, a 4-hour descent is needed to return to civilisation. A change of scenery and plenty of laughter guaranteed!

Pacuare Lodge

At the heart of the country, in a 25-hectare area of remarkable beauty, Pacuare Lodge welcomes you on the banks of the Pacuare River. Access is by raft, along miles of winding, powerful waters and churning rapids. You'll stay in harmony with nature on the riverbank, in a comfortable and welcoming eco-lodge built with deep respect for its environment.

A particular favorite is the Canopy Suite, with its private terrace and suspension bridge. The atmosphere is relaxed, the setting idyllic amid the rainforest, and the accommodation highly comfortable.