But for those adventurous enough to breach its waters, the Pacuare, in the province of Cartago, offers a full-blown adrenaline surge. Running through Costa Rica's mountainous central zone, a journey down the Pacuare covers 22 miles, lasts four hours and boasts Class 2, 3 and 4 rapids. It is a challenge that travelers will not soon forget, testing concentration and determination of both novice and experienced rafters.
Combing scenic beauty with world-class whitewater rafting, the Pacuare offers an exhilarating educational experience. The water runs from a tranquil stretch so still it appears frozen to a current so strong you might surprised your raft has survived. (it will.) Once on the river, the challenging rapids will carry you to six beautiful waterfalls and the famous river canyon, Dos Montañas del Río Pacuare, where you can cake a refreshing dip and enjoy the tranquil waters.
And though the water is the star of the show, you can also learn about Costa Rica's indigenous population, their ways of life and a wide range of flora and fauna. Flying and hanging in the trees around you will be a variety of wildlife, including three types of herons (tiger, blue and white), toucans, sloths, howler monkeys, otters, oropendolas and more.
Departing from San Jose, a one-day roundtrip experience includes land transportation to and from the river, a typical breakfast and lunch, all the tools for your aquatic journey and experienced guides who will here you enjoy your adventures safely.
For more information, contact Ríos Tropicales
click here. In 24 years of serving Costa Rica, Ríos Tropicales has earned National Geographic's Geotourism Challenge Award and is affiliated with the Climate Neutral Network of the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP).
Written by Andrea Navarro. Courtesy of Nature Landings Magazine
