Pacuare River

The Pacuare River, one of the world’s top whitewater runs,  offers Class II-V rapids and spans some of the country’s most stunning scenery. Several established tour operators in San Jose and Turrialba offer unforgettable tours. The river originates deep within the Cordillera de Talamanca and flows more than 62 miles to the Caribbean Sea.  Flanked by towering gorges covered in lush vegetation, the Pacuare affords a sense of total isolation as it snakes through primary rainforest and cascades over pristine waterfalls. Pasture lands and indigenous villages spot the upper river banks, and rough dirt roads zigzag across the canyon walls, providing access to this free flowing gem.

Most travelers begin their exploration of the Pacuare near the small farming community of Tres Equis where local cowboys raise cattle and horses. From Tres Equis, the Rio Pacuare begins with a twisting descent through patches of open pasture and cloud forest to the riverside launch. During the initial 25 kilometer stretch, the river drops more than 800 vertical feet down dozens of Class II, III, and IV rapids, providing an adrenaline-fueled adventure.

Rafters are treated to challenging rapids while paddling amid spectacular landscapes. The primordial forest is alive with a variety of wildlife including toucans, coatis, sloths and jaguars. Parrots and herons fly overhead, and the calls of howler monkeys echo down the enchanted river corridor.

Huacas Falls, one of several small tributaries that feed the mighty Pacuare, drops nearly 150 feet to create a stunning cascade in the midst of a Class IV rapid. Other notable rapids such as the Cimmarones, meaning "wild" in the indigenous Cabecar Indian language, challenge even the most experienced river guides.

Both first-time rafters and seasoned professionals will enjoy the unparalleled beauty and challenging rapids of the Pacuare. The river’s spectacular scenery and whitewater runs offer a magical journey, one that rafters will never forget.