Río Balsa Whitewater Rafting Adventure
Ride the Río Balsa, one of Arenal’s best rafting rivers, as you tackle class II-III rapids and stop for swimming and lunch.
Overview
Experience the thrill of an action-packed whitewater rafting expedition on the beautiful Río Balsa, a river known for its exciting rapids and surrounding natural beauty. The day begins in La Fortuna, where you’ll be picked up from your accommodations and taken to the launch site along the river. Once you arrive, your bilingual guide will explain safety procedures and fit you with essential gear, including a secure helmet and a buoyant life vest. Then, prepare to plunge into the river’s current and take on a series of Class II and III rapids with fun names like Morning Coffee and Rock around the Croc. In between the adrenaline-fueled stretches, enjoy peaceful breaks where you can jump into the water for a swim and observe wildlife along the lush riverbanks.
Highlights
- Raft through exciting Class II and III rapids on the Río Balsa
- Cool off with a swim during the gentler parts of the river
- Catch glimpses of monkeys, tropical birds, and other native animals
- Relish a hearty Costa Rican lunch and a fresh tropical fruit snack
Know before you go
Approximately 5 hours
Adventurers 8 years old and above
Small group tour
Lunch included along with a fruit snack
What you’ll do
Your day kicks off with a hotel pickup in La Fortuna, followed by a scenic 45-minute drive to the rafting launch site on the Río Balsa. Here, a professional English-speaking guide will prepare you with all the necessary safety instructions and equipment. Once you’re ready, the adventure begins as you push off into the current and paddle through several thrilling rapids. The guides will help you navigate safely, while also pointing out native wildlife, including vibrant birds like toucans and possible sightings of monkeys or sloths peeking from the trees.
Thanks to the dam that regulates the water flow, conditions remain ideal for rafting throughout the year. Between the fast-moving rapids, you’ll encounter calmer sections that are perfect for taking a refreshing swim. After about two hours on the river, you’ll come ashore and dry off for a delicious Costa Rican meal served outdoors by the riverside. Enjoy the relaxing surroundings as you reflect on your river adventure before returning to your lodging in La Fortuna.
Start times
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Daily9:30 am
What’s included
- Round-trip hotel transfers
- Expert bilingual rafting guide
- All safety equipment
- Fresh tropical snack
- Traditional Costa Rican lunch
A-Activ-27sep2025-315







