Wild Whitewater and Rugged Rainforests: Adventurous Costa Rica
Gear up for an action-packed adventure on this eight-day trip through Costa Rica’s volcanic, mountainous, and rainforest landscapes by way of rafting, hiking, and birdwatching.
Costa Rica
8 days / 7 nights
$3,845 /person
$3,845 /person
Your trip at a glance
Top Activities
Whitewater rafting down the rushing Pacuare River on an exciting and exhilarating guided tour
Searching for elusive and colorful quetzal birds during a San Gerardo de Dota birdwatching hike
Visiting the archaeological ruins of Guayabo National Park to uncover the secrets of the past
Meeting members of the indigenous Cabécar community during an ancient trail hike along the river
Harnessing the power of nature on a drive past the still-active Turrialba Volcano
Welcome to Costa Rica!
Whitewater Rafting on Pacuare River Rapids
Design Your Dream Day Along the Pacuare
River Rafting and Onward to Turrialba
Storied Secrets and Hidden Histories of Guayabo National Monument
Design Your Dream Day Along the Pacuare
Overview
For your full day along the gorgeous Pacuare River, you’ll get to choose two experiences from a roster of options that lets you sample the region’s overlapping landscapes, culture, and wildlife however you see fit. After breakfast, you’ll have your pick of on-site adventures run by your accommodation. Choices include a two-hour rainforest canopy excursion, which will take you rappelling along a network of cables through the surrounding treetops. If you’re craving even more of a thrill, there’s also an option to canyon in El Tesorito Creek, following the expertise of your local mountaineer guide. Alternatively, if you’d like to stay on land, additional tour options include an early morning birdwatching hike, sustainability tour of the lodge, or trek along one of the area’s best trails. The latter hike may even lead to a hidden waterfall, pairing the day with a chance for a swim. Meanwhile, on a different guided hike, you'll have the unique opportunity to engage with the local indigenous culture, trekking to visit a community of Cabécar people and walking ancient indigenous trails. Just make sure to check with your accommodation about the availability of each activity and the recommended ages of participants. (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
Highlights
Cabécar Indigenous Experience (optional)
Merge culture with nature during this five-hour hiking tour along ancient Cabécar trails, with ample opportunities to learn about the land from members of the indigenous community. If you choose this experience, you’ll follow a naturalist guide through the Talamanca Mountains, where the Cabécar people live. You’ll learn all about the local ecosystem, meet with a Cabécar family, and hike to your heart’s content.
Canyoning (optional)
During this canyoning excursion, you’ll canyon over the gorges in the Pacuare area, maintaining an adrenaline rush for the duration of two and a half hours. You’ll have the opportunity to rock climb, descend a waterfall, and zip along cables as the lush jungle becomes a playground for the most thrilling of adventures. There’s also a rappelling section of some 100 feet, upping the thrill factor all the more.
Birdwatching (optional)
Start your day strong with this early morning birdwatching tour, which will wake you up with the songs and movement of nature. Alongside a local ornithologist guide, you’ll embark on an adventure of an hour and a half, during which you’ll peruse the jungle for a number of Costa Rica’s 850 distinct species of birds. With just a little luck, you’ll spot Montezuma oropendolas, sunbitterns, black-cheeked woodpeckers, and brightly hued toucans. Not only will binoculars come in handy, but you’ll also have the chance to use your guide’s telescope to closely observe these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Accommodations
Pacuare Lodge (or similar)
A luxury eco-hotel with only 20 suites, Pacuare Lodge sits on the banks of one of the world’s most scenic, whitewater wonders: the Pacuare River. With vibrant nature, this unparalleled location creates a one-of-a-kind backdrop for adventure, romance, and wellness. At Pacuare Lodge, you'll find luxurious rooms, unmatched service, and a celebrated sustainability philosophy that prioritizes the natural gifts of the Pacuare River. Each bungalow is a unique, separate dwelling that’s close enough to the restaurant and reception that you won’t get lost on your way to dinner, yet far enough in the rainforest that you’ll be fully immersed in the magic of your surroundings.
Location:
Pacuare
Phone:
+18009631195
How it works
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What's included
Included in the final price
- Roadbook with local tips and expert recommendations
- 24/7 on-the-ground support
- On-trip concierge service
- Personalized trip crafting
- COVID entry and exit information and assistance
- All transfers mentioned in the itinerary
- All accommodations and meals mentioned in the itinerary
- All excursions, tours, activities, English-speaking guides, and experiences mentioned in the itinerary
Not included in the final price
- International arrival and departure flights
- Travel insurance
- Personal expenses and gratuities
- Alcoholic beverages, unless specified
- Any meals, experiences, services, and activities not mentioned in the itinerary
- Transportation not specified in the itinerary
- Anything else not listed or listed as optional in the itinerary