Balsa River Rafting Tour (Class 2–3)

Get ready for an exhilarating whitewater rafting experience in Arenal, Costa Rica. Spend two hours full of adventure on the river, covering 13 km (8 miles) and navigating 22 exciting Class III & II rapids on the scenic Rio Balsa. This family-friendly tour is perfect for both first-time and seasoned rafters, delivering the ideal blend of adrenaline, nature, and wildlife encounters.

Your adventure includes round-trip transportation from La Fortuna, fresh tropical fruits, refreshing beverages, and a delicious organic Costa Rican lunch at a local farm. To complete the experience, enjoy a traditional sugar cane demonstration, offering a cultural touch to your unforgettable day in Arenal.

Start the Adventure: Your journey starts with a convenient hotel pick-up in La Fortuna. After a scenic 45-minute drive to our private put-in location, you’ll receive a safety briefing. Here, our certified bilingual guides will provide a comprehensive safety briefing and paddling practice. This ensures that you feel confident before taking on the rapids.

Raft the Rapids: Navigate through 13 km (8 miles) of thrilling Class III & II rapids, a journey designed for families and adventurous visitors looking for an unforgettable experience. Enjoy the perfect balance of excitement and nature as you ride the waves and take in the stunning rainforest scenery.

Take a Break: Midway through the journey, you will take a well-deserved break. Your guides will prepare fresh tropical fruits while you relax by the riverbank, surrounded by the peaceful rainforest. Then, the second section continues through beautiful scenery and calmer Class II rapids.

Wildlife Spotting: As you raft, look out for monkeys swinging through the trees, sloths by the riverbanks, and vibrant toucans. The Rio Balsa is known for its amazing wildlife sightings.

Refreshment: Once the rafting is complete, you’ll arrive at a private take-out spot where you can freshen up. Staff will greet you with towels, and you’ll have access to bathrooms and showers to change into dry clothes. Enjoy a cold beverage while you unwind after the adventure.

Local Flavor: After rafting, head to a nearby organic farm for a delicious Costa Rican lunch. You’ll also enjoy a short tour of the sugar cane mill and learn about Costa Rican coffee culture.

• ✓ Over 20 years of rafting experience, ensuring both safety and fun
• ✓ Certified bilingual guides that make the journey informative and exciting
• ✓ Top-of-the-line equipment for your comfort and security
• ✓ Family-friendly adventure, perfect for kids from 8 years old
• ✓ Excellent chance to spot monkeys, sloths, toucans, and more
• ✓ Traditional Costa Rican lunch and local cultural experience included

• ✓ Quick safety talk + paddling instructions before the river
• ✓ A mix of fun rapids and calm sections to enjoy the scenery
• ✓ Great for beginners (Class II–III)
• ✓ Plenty of photo moments and breaks

• ✓ A/C round-trip transfers from your hotel (La Fortuna area)
• ✓ Professional rafting equipment (life jacket, helmet, paddle)
• ✓ Experienced bilingual guide (Spanish / English)
• ✓ Safety briefing + assistance throughout the tour
• ✓ Access to changing facilities after the trip
• ✓ Tropical fruit snack
• ✓ Costa Rican lunch

• ✓ Change of clothes
• ✓ Cap or hat
• ✓ Strap-on sandals or wet shoes
• ✓ Sunscreen
• ✓ Mosquito / insect repellent
• ✓ Waterproof camera (optional)

• ✓ Prices shown are in USD and may change by season/availability
• ✓ Please message us to confirm final price and pickup time
• ✓ This is a beginner-friendly rafting trip (Class II–III)
• ✓ Minimum age is usually 8 years old