
Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 38 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River worth booking?
Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River is a 2-hour experience in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, from $85 per person. It scores 69 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Solid Choice”, based on a 5/5 rating across 38 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 69 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (38)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $85 per person
Our 100 percent local and certified guides will not let you miss any details during the tour. They'll make you see things that are beyond your normal vision, things you don't even imagine are there. You will see diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles and flora. Our tour is a sensory experience in the crystal clear waters of the Sarapiqui River. Here you can experience emotions such as: peace, connection with nature, adrenaline, harmony and breathing fresh air.
What you get
About this experience
Our 100 percent local and certified guides will not let you miss any details during the tour. They'll make you see things that are beyond your normal vision, things you don't even imagine are there. You will see diversity of birds, mammals, reptiles and flora. Our tour is a sensory experience in the crystal clear waters of the Sarapiqui River. Here you can experience emotions such as: peace, connection with nature, adrenaline, harmony and breathing fresh air.
What's included
Included
- Safety equipment such as helmets, life jacket. In addition to the oars required for the tour.
- Minimum 2 participants to take the tour
- Bottled water
- Free parking
- Snacks
Not included
- Lunch
What you'll see and do
Sarapiqui
Our accredited guide will meet you at the established location. At this point they can use the toilet and change their clothes if they need to. Our private transport will take you to the Sarapiqui River, at the start of the tour. During the tour you can observe endemic vegetation and diversity of fauna. In the middle of the tour the guide will offer you a refreshment of fresh fruits and you can take a dip in the calm waters of the river. After finishing the tour they can use the showers and toilet services. Tourists are transported by the company’s internal transport to the place where their own vehicles are parked. If you wish you can buy the typical lunch in the restaurant.
10 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
La Fortuna
4 km Northwest of the Chilamate Crossing. Ask for David (Cuca) who will be in charge of operating the tour. 10°25'29.1"N 84°07'21.7"W - Google Maps.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
4 km Northwest of the Chilamate Crossing. Ask for David (Cuca) who will be in charge of operating the tour. 10°25'29.1"N 84°07'21.7"W - Google Maps.
Options you can book
Safari tour in Rio Sarapiquí
Safari tour: Made in the calm waters of the Sarapiqui River. Ideal for those who wish to observe and photograph birds and older adults. Duration: 2 hours: During the tour you will have time to swim quietly in the crystal clear waters of the Sarapiquí River. Water and fruit : Halfway through the tour participants will have a snack of fruits harvested in the area. Chilamate to Puerto Viejo Rafting raft
Rafting Level III-IV
Rafting Level II-IV : This tour is ideal for those who like adrenaline, has a moderate level of physical difficulty. Moderate-advanced Rafting Duration: 2 hours: The duration time will also depend on the amount of water in the river at the time of the tour. Local water and fruit. San Miguel to La Virgen: This route is composed of moderate and advanced rapids, sometimes accompanied by large waves. Rafting raft
Family Rafting Level II-III
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en, es
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Every day
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Sarapiqui Tropical Rafting
Know before you go
- 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
- Suitable for over 4 years.
- It is not recommended for travelers with obesity.
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 38 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Good for families
2 mentionsReviewers traveling with kids report it landed well with their group.
Traveler reviews
38 verified traveler reviews for Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Great rafting in Sarapiqui!
One of the highlights of my trip to Costa Rica! The rafting on the Sarapiquí River was super fun — great rapids, lush jungle all around, and an awesome crew. Our guides Joel and David were absolutely fantastic — welcoming, entertaining, and made us feel at ease from the very first moment. The explanation of the equipment and techniques was very clear, so even first-timers can jump in with full confidence. Halfway through, we stopped for a break with the most amazing tropical fruit you can find, plus the chance to dive into the river for a refreshing swim. Whether you're a beginner or experienced, this is an absolute must-do!
Response from the operator: We're so glad you enjoyed the rafting tour as much as we did. It was a pleasure to have you, Pura Vida!
via Tripadvisor
Safari tour
We went on a safari tour with our two children 5 and 4 years old. We had a great time with an enthusiastic guide. Our children loved it!
Response from the operator: Nous sommes ravis que vous ayez apprécié le safari avec vos enfants, ce fut un plaisir de vous avoir parmi nous, Pura Vida.
via Tripadvisor (translated)
Super fun!
What a wonderful way to experience the river!
Response from the operator: We're so glad you enjoyed this trip as much as we did, Pura Vida.
via Tripadvisor
Una experiencia buena!
We had an awesome time! First time rafting and though I was a little nervous in the beginning, it was a blast! I believe my guide's name was Davis (he had the med kit and did our safety demonstration). He was such a great guy and made the experience enjoyable! I would definitely come again (and all the other guides were great too! I wasn't expecting snacks!)
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for sharing your experience with us, it was a pleasure to have you, Pura Vida.
via Tripadvisor
Rafting trip
Awesome guide! Had a blast, got super wet, and got to cliff jump!
Response from the operator: Thank you so much for your visit, it was a pleasure to have you, Pura Vida.
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Every day
- Price range
- $85 to $105
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 13
- Verdict
- Solid Choice
Why this scores 69
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for La Fortuna.
How much does Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River cost?
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Prices start at $85 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in La Fortuna usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in La Fortuna is not rushed.
Is Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 69 out of 100, which we label "Solid Choice". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 38 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable last minute in La Fortuna, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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Around 13 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in La Fortuna can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in La Fortuna and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central La Fortuna within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in La Fortuna?
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On Outty we rank every La Fortuna experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include Upper Balsa River White Water Rafting Class 3/4 in Costa Rica, White Water Rafting Class II and III, Authentic Coffee and Chocolate Tour at North Fields. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit La Fortuna?
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Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in La Fortuna?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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Included: Safety equipment such as helmets, life jacket. In addition to the oars required for the to; Minimum 2 participants to take the tour; Bottled water; Free parking; and Snacks. Not included: Lunch. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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4 km Northwest of the Chilamate Crossing. Ask for David (Cuca) who will be in charge of operating the tour. 10°25'29.1"N 84°07'21.7"W - Google Maps. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River offered in?
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It is offered in English and Spanish. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Not recommended for pregnant travelers. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River if the weather is bad?
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This experience depends on good weather. If it is canceled because of poor weather, you are offered a different date or a full refund.
What do travelers say about Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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Across 38 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include the guide, good for families. Travelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
What booking options are available for Private Rafting in the Sarapiqui River?
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There are 3 options to choose from, including Safari tour in Rio Sarapiquí, Rafting Level III-IV, Family Rafting Level II-III. Prices and start times differ by option, so compare them on the booking screen.
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