White Water River Rafting In Costa Rica
Rafting on the Pacuare
by Katty Beard

Rafting on the Pacuare River has always been one of the best experiences in Costa Rica. I have gone many times and each time have found something new to enjoy. The experience is one I recommend to anybody traveling to Costa Rica.

The Pacuare River is one of the top five rafting rivers in the world for its scenery and rapids. This quintessential tropical river is a trip of pure magic, unsurpassed beauty, wildlife and exhilarating rapids.

Located on Costa Rica's Atlantic slope, the Pacuare River borders the Talamanca mountain range, home to native Cabecar Indians and an incredible variety of wildlife. This river has been officially declared a Wild and Scenic River, and offers some of the finest white water rafting in Latin America. This 18 mile stretch winds deep inside one of Costa Rica's most impressive primordial rainforests.

While on the river, I explored a wilderness of dense vegetation covering the sides of steep gorges that rise above the riverbanks. The thick undergrowth provides shelter for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloths, and numerous other species of animals and birds. On this trip a Toucan flew by and sat near the river for nearly five minutes....it was amazing!

Once I arrived at the river, professional guides and the rafting equipment were waiting. After some brief security instructions, we started out on this incredible journey. The first rapid came quickly and the members of our boat became fast friends! Rafting is filled with excitement as you squeeze through narrow openings between huge boulders and run long stretches of powerful rapids.

We took a break for a delicious lunch of cold meats, cheeses, lettuce, fruits, bread and juice served along the river's edge by your guides. While lunch was being prepared, we relaxed and enjoyed the the spectacular scenery marveling at the raw, pounding power of the untamed Pacuare River that for millions of years has coursed through this virgin tropical rainforest.

If you're ready for a very exciting day filled with wet and wonderful fun, the Pacuare is ready for you! Rafters should be physically fit for this trip, although no previous white-water experience is necessary.
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We have overnight rafting trips with accommodations on the banks of the Pacuare in a gorgeous setting with first class private cabins with baths and king beds. The food is outstanding and there is hiking in the rain forest and an exciting tree top canopy tour.

WHAT TO BRING: Rubber-soled shoes that can get wet (Tevas, tennis shoes, booties or similar), Swimsuit / swim trunks; t-shirt and shorts of a quick-drying material, Waterproof sunscreen lotion (SPF 15 or higher), Sun hat or bandana, Croakies or straps to secure glasses, Clothing Change including shoes for after your Rafting Tour and Towel.

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To see more adventure tours in Costa Rica Click Here or please contact us at 877 853-0538 or E Mail CostaRica@diveres.com