About this experience
The Balsa River is dam-controlled and is renowned for its relatively continuous Class 2 and 3 rapids, providing an exciting yet safe adventure for all skill levels. Most rapids are found in the first hour of the trip. These rapids offer excitement and safety, ensuring a memorable journey for beginners and experienced rafters. As you travel down the river, you'll be surrounded by the captivating beauty of Costa Rica's lush rainforests, pristine waterfalls, and a rich tapestry of exotic flora. You'll want to keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of wildlife that calls this area home. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the toucans, kingfishers, and herons as they dart and soar along the riverbanks. Howler monkeys might greet you with their distinctive calls from the treetops, and you might even be lucky enough to spot the elusive, slow-moving sloth hanging lazily from the branches overhead.
At a glance
- Duration: 5 hr
Plan your experience
Set aside 5 hr for the experience itself, with additional time to reach your meeting or pickup point.
Before you go
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
What is included
- Water Refill and Soft Drinks are available throughout your shuttles and trip
- All Rafting Equipment including Lifejacket, Helmet and Paddle
- Air-conditioned vehicle
- Restrooms and Changing Rooms before and after the trip
- Clean Dry Towel to dry off after the Trip
- Typical Costa Rican Lunch served after your trip with vegetarian options
- Soft Drinks are included
Itinerary and highlights
The Balsa River is a gem of a river rafting trip, offering a fun, family-friendly experience on Class 3 rapids rich in natural beauty. Our 11 km long trip departs daily from La Fortuna. The Balsa River rafting trip is perfect for first-time rafters ages 8 to 108. Previous rafting experience is optional, and you do not have to know how to swim. Join us on the Balsa River for a day filled with fun whitewater surrounded by majestic jungles teeming with wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans.
Our shuttle vehicle will pick you up from your hotel at 10:00 AM with an approximate return time of 3:00 PM. Our Balsa River trip includes a fruit stop riverside and many wildlife viewing opportunities, especially on the journey’s second half. A traditional Costa Rican lunch and beverages will be served after the trip. Our rafting trips are unmatched and are operated with our client’s safety and comfort as a priority.
The Balsa River is conveniently located less than an hour’s drive from La Fortuna. If you’re seeking adventure and natural beauty, rafting the Balsa River is the perfect choice for your Costa Rica vacation.
See the overview, available options and booking details for the experience schedule.
Meeting and pickup information
- We only offer transportation from accommodations within a 20-minute radius of downtown La Fortuna. Please email or WhatsApp us with your accommodation name and location so we can arrange for an exact pickup time.
Languages and tickets
- hi — Guide
- English — Guide
- Spanish — Guide
- Mobile Only
Tour operator
- Rafting Costa Rica
Accessibility and practical details
- Wheelchair accessible
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
- Not recommended for pregnant travelers
- Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Minimum Ages is 8 years old
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Questions about this experience
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Service animals allowed
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