Caribbean Week of Kayaking
DURATION
8 DAYS / 7 NIGHTS
Trip Overview
Trip Includes:
What’s Not Included?
- Airfare
- Tips and Gratuities
- Alcohol
- Non Paddler Options are an extra cost for transportation
Two AMAZING Trips that every River person should have on their bucket list!
People ask us all the time which trip we recommend. We suggest doing both the Caribbean trip and the Pacific trip. We’ve listed some notes on our Classic Caribbean trip below, but all of our trips are fantastic for Intermediate and advanced paddlers. Both our Caribbean and Pacific trips include the famous Pacuare River and overnight trip at the Pacuare Eco-Lodge that our guides often refer to as “Jungle Camp”.
The Pacuare Eco-Lodge is in the middle of the jungle but boasts world-class accommodations, stunning landscapes, and an incredible experience. Don’t let the name of “camp” fool you. The ecolodge has private bungalows, warm showers, flush toilets and a gourmet chef’s kitchen where the guides will cook up their best recipes while you dine by tiki torch and candlelight.
“The Classic” Mountain and Jungle Rivers of Costa Rica Whitewater Kayak & Rafting Trip
Class II, III and Optional Class IV – Best Trip for BeginnersPrepare to float the rivers that our guides grew up on. These rivers all sit on the Eastern half of Costa Rica and run through the mountainous regions. You’ll experience eco-lodges in the middle of the jungle as well as many farm areas that are still untouched from the tourist traffic that you’ll find in many other areas of the country.
While you paddle the famous Pacuare river, hitting more than 52 rapids, our guides will show you the best lines, points of interest, and hidden gems that only locals know.
Our guides have been running kayakers, whitewater canoes, and rafters on this trip for over 15 years. This is an all inclusive trip from the time we pick you up at the SJO (San Jose) Airport until we drop you back off at the end of the week.
If you’ve never been on a Costa Rica river, this is the trip we recommend starting with. It’s the perfect trip for a class III-IV boater that is looking to take their skills to the next level. It’s also perfect for beginning kayakers. The structure of this is such that the more experienced kayakers can do a completely different section of a river than beginners, allowing everyone to feel successful at the end of each day.
Along with paddling Costa Rica rivers, this trip includes an overnight stay at our famous Eco-Lodge that our guides refer to as “Jungle Camp”. The Pacuare Eco-Lodge in the middle of the jungle boasts world-class accommodations, stunning landscapes, and an incredible experience. Don’t let the “camp” name fool you. The lodge has private bungalows, warm showers, flush toilets and a gourmet chef’s kitchen where the guides will cook up their best recipes.
If you’ve kayaked in Costa Rica before or known someone who has, this is most likely the river trip they experienced.
Why Kayak Costa Rica with Amazing Vacations?
- All guides have 10+ years experience and are ACA Certified
- Brand new kayaks & equipment
- All inclusive Small Group trips
- Many sections of rivers we paddle aren’t offered by other companies
Schedule of Trips and Prices
We are constantly running river trips year round. While we have some set dates for each trip, we can almost always make your trip dates work if you need flexibility with when you travel. If you don’t see a date listed, please check with us because we are always running custom trips and can often combine with an existing group. There are rivers running 12 months out of the year in Costa Rica. Also, a hybrid combination of some of our trips mixed with some site seeing can make for the best kind of vacation, with amazing locations and plenty of time having fun on the river. We are always helping people plan custom trips, so talk to us if you’d like to create your own trip plan that also includes time paddling.
Caribbean Rivers Trip Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Tropical Paradise
You will fly into (SJO) San Jose, Costa Rica. From there we will transfer to the B&B in Turrialba (or similar hotel) you’ll get more detailed information.
Day 2 Outfitting & Rio Pejibaye - Lower (Class II+) with optional Upper (Class III, IV-)
You will fly into (SJO) San Jose, Costa Rica.From there we will transfer to the B&B in Turrialba (or similar hotel) you’ll get more detailed information.This is the river that most of our guides learned to paddle on. You'll start out with an easy run with some fun surfing waves and just enough to challenge some people in the group. Your first run will allow the guides to understand the ability levels and needs of the group in a more controlled, less remote environment.
You'll eat lunch along the river and then depending on the makeup of the group, you'll likely head to an upper section of the river that is completely covered in jungle canopy for certain spots along the river.
Day 3 Travel North to Rio Sarapiqui (Class II, III)
We'll travel up North to the Sarapiqui River. This is a great river for both beginners and intermediate boaters. Lots of spots to surf and play on the river today. Your guides will be right there with you enjoying your day as you navigate the rapids of the Sarapiqui River. If the group needs to be split into ability levels, that is an option and all are sure to have a fun an enjoyable day. You will be challenged and succeed as you travel this great river. After the river we will have dinner and stay the night in Hotel Ara Ambigua (or similar hotel).
Day 4 Rio Sarapiqui Upper or Lower (Class II or III+/IV-)
We'll travel up North to the Sarapiqui River. This is a great river for both beginners and intermediate boaters. Lots of spots to surf and play on the river today. Your guides will be right there with you enjoying your day as you navigate the rapids of the Sarapiqui River. If the group needs to be split into ability levels, that is an option and all are sure to have a fun an enjoyable day. You will be challenged and succeed as you travel this great river. After the river we will have dinner and stay the night in Hotel Ara Ambigua (or similar hotel).Wake up to the beautiful flowers and hummingbirds on the grounds of the hotel for our second day on the Sarapiqui. Today we’ll put in at Superman or La Virgen upper sections that you likely didn't do the day before (depending on skill level). We’ll guide you through fun and challenging rapids and point out the scenery that sometimes includes monkey, iguana, toucan and macaw sightings! After the river we’ll enjoy lunch at our favorite local restaurant right on the river.
We then head back to Turrialba. Once we get back to the B&B (or similar hotel) we’ll enjoy family style dinner from our private chef and relax.
Day 5 Pacuare River to Eco-Lodge (Class III)
This 24 kilometer (17 miles) class III/IV section is your paddling gem today. This is the most popular run on the Pacuare, often said to be one of the top five river sections in the world. We will put-in a bit higher than other groups and enjoy an additional 4 kilometers of whitewater as we paddle to our riverside Jungle Lodge. The rapids on this day are fun class II and III. To spend a night along the shores of the Pacuare river is an experience every person should enjoy at least once in their lives.We’ll light the camp with candles and prepare delicious tropical cuisine. The camp is complete with flush toilets, warm showers, raised platform tents with comfy mattresses and fully landscaped grounds.
Day 6 Lower Pacuare River (Class III & IV)
This 24 kilometer (17 miles) class III/IV section is your paddling gem today. This is the most popular run on the Pacuare, often said to be one of the top five river sections in the world. We will put-in a bit higher than other groups and enjoy an additional 4 kilometers of whitewater as we paddle to our riverside Jungle Lodge. The rapids on this day are fun class II and III. To spend a night along the shores of the Pacuare river is an experience every person should enjoy at least once in their lives.We’ll light the camp with candles and prepare delicious tropical cuisine. The camp is complete with flush toilets, warm showers, raised platform tents with comfy mattresses and fully landscaped grounds.Wake up to the sound of Toucans and the jungle mist snaking its way up the canyon in the morning. You'll eat a delicious breakfast and enjoy the last of jungle camp. This section of the Pacuare winds through the beautiful and exciting Huacas Canyon with several Class III-IV rapids.
After the canyon it mellows out and then picks back up before a nice Class II-III paddle out to the Caribbean flatland town of Siquirres where we take out. Paddlers who are not feeling up to the harder rapids will experience all these thrilling class III and IV rapids in a guided raft. We then return to Turrialba to enjoy our last dinner together and last night in Costa Rica.
Day 7 Upper Upper Pacuare (Class III+/Optional IV)
This 24 kilometer (17 miles) class III/IV section is your paddling gem today. This is the most popular run on the Pacuare, often said to be one of the top five river sections in the world. We will put-in a bit higher than other groups and enjoy an additional 4 kilometers of whitewater as we paddle to our riverside Jungle Lodge. The rapids on this day are fun class II and III. To spend a night along the shores of the Pacuare river is an experience every person should enjoy at least once in their lives.We’ll light the camp with candles and prepare delicious tropical cuisine. The camp is complete with flush toilets, warm showers, raised platform tents with comfy mattresses and fully landscaped grounds.Wake up to the sound of Toucans and the jungle mist snaking its way up the canyon in the morning. You'll eat a delicious breakfast and enjoy the last of jungle camp. This section of the Pacuare winds through the beautiful and exciting Huacas Canyon with several Class III-IV rapids.
After the canyon it mellows out and then picks back up before a nice Class II-III paddle out to the Caribbean flatland town of Siquirres where we take out. Paddlers who are not feeling up to the harder rapids will experience all these thrilling class III and IV rapids in a guided raft. We then return to Turrialba to enjoy our last dinner together and last night in Costa Rica.For those boaters who have proven they can safely handle Class III rapids in their kayak, this is a step up.Very few people paddle this section of river because of how remote it is. Expect to see no more than two buildings and two bridges during the day. Traveling in a raft will be an option if you don't feel ready.
There is one class IV rapid today called "Por Donde Me Voy" that at many kayakers choose to walk around. This is often one of the favorite days for our groups who are looking for big, fun water in the middle of the jungle.
Day 8 Transfer back to San Jose or Extend your Trip
We say our good-byes at the airport and we start making plans for your return to Costa Rica! **We do our very best to adhere to the specific itinerary listed above, but activities and locations may be subject to change due to a number of reasons beyond our control (i.e. weather, water levels, road and safety conditions).
Day 1
Arriving in Tropical Paradise
You will fly into (SJO) San Jose, Costa Rica.
Day 2
Outfitting & Rio Pejibaye - Lower (Class II+) with optional Upper (Class III, IV-)
This is the river that most of our guides learned to paddle on. You’ll start out with an easy run with some fun surfing waves and just enough to challenge some people in the group. Your first run will allow the guides to understand the ability levels and needs of the group in a more controlled, less remote environment.
You’ll eat lunch along the river and then depending on the makeup of the group, you’ll likely head to an upper section of the river that is completely covered in jungle canopy for certain spots along the river.
Day 3
Travel North to Rio Sarapiqui (Class II, III)
We’ll travel up North to the Sarapiqui River. This is a great river for both beginners and intermediate boaters. Lots of spots to surf and play on the river today.
Day 4
Rio Sarapiqui Upper or Lower (Class II or III+/IV-)
Wake up to the beautiful flowers and hummingbirds on the grounds of the hotel for our second day on the Sarapiqui. Today we’ll put in at Superman or La Virgen upper sections that you likely didn’t do the day before (depending on skill level).
We’ll guide you through fun and challenging rapids and point out the scenery that sometimes includes monkey, iguana, toucan and macaw sightings! After the river we’ll enjoy lunch at our favorite local restaurant right on the river.
We then head back to Turrialba. Once we get back to the B&B (or similar hotel) we’ll enjoy family style dinner from our private chef and relax.
Day 5
Pacuare River to Eco-Lodge
(Class III)
This 24 kilometer (17 miles) class III/IV section is your paddling gem today. This is the most popular run on the Pacuare, often said to be one of the top five river sections in the world. We will put-in a bit higher than other groups and enjoy an additional 4 kilometers of whitewater as we paddle to our riverside Jungle Lodge. The rapids on this day are fun class II and III. To spend a night along the shores of the Pacuare river is an experience every person should enjoy at least once in their lives.
We’ll light the camp with candles and prepare delicious tropical cuisine. The camp is complete with flush toilets, warm showers, raised platform tents with comfy mattresses and fully landscaped grounds.
Day 6
Lower Pacuare River
(Class III & IV)
Wake up to the sound of Toucans and the jungle mist snaking its way up the canyon in the morning. You’ll eat a delicious breakfast and enjoy the last of jungle camp. This section of the Pacuare winds through the beautiful and exciting Huacas Canyon with several Class III-IV rapids.
After the canyon it mellows out and then picks back up before a nice Class II-III paddle out to the Caribbean flatland town of Siquirres where we take out. Paddlers who are not feeling up to the harder rapids will experience all these thrilling class III and IV rapids in a guided raft. We then return to Turrialba to enjoy our last dinner together and last night in Costa Rica.
Day 7
Upper Upper Pacuare
(Class III+/Optional IV)
For those boaters who have proven they can safely handle Class III rapids in their kayak, this is a step up.
Very few people paddle this section of river because of how remote it is. Expect to see no more than two buildings and two bridges during the day. Traveling in a raft will be an option if you don’t feel ready.
There is one class IV rapid today called “Por Donde Me Voy” that at many kayakers choose to walk around. This is often one of the favorite days for our groups who are looking for big, fun water in the middle of the jungle.
Day 8
Transfer back to San Jose or Extend your Trip
Trip Details
All Inclusive Costa Rica Kayaking Trip
The Costa Rica Caribbean Kayaking trip is ALL-INCLUSIVE from the time we pick you up at the SJO Airport until we drop you off.
All transportation, food, and lodging is included in the price of the trip. You will stay in some of our favorite hotels, eat at our favorite restaurants, and have a driver for the duration of the trip for one low price.
You’ll have access to our modern fleet of kayaks and gear, including boats from Dagger, LiquidLogic, and Jackson, ensuring you’re well equipped for an incredible week on the river.
You can see the entire list here.
Paddle Costa Rica’s Best Rivers
During this incredible week, you’ll paddle world-class sections of whitewater on some of Costa Rica’s best rivers.
The trip includes multiple sections on our favorite Caribbean-side rivers, featuring fun Class III rapids with optional Class IV sections. Depending on water levels, we typically run the Pejibaye, Sarapiquí, and several sections of the Pacuare, with additional backup river options available to ensure the best possible experience.
Additional Group Trip Information
Group Size
Our trips are designed for small groups. If fewer than 4 participants are registered, the trip will still run — it will not be canceled. However, there may be a slight adjustment:
Group dinners may not be included and will typically be on your own rather than organized for the group.
Lunch will be lighter and more picnic-style (such as pastries and easy river snacks), but still enough to keep you energized and ready for a great day on the river.
All river activities, guiding, safety support, transportation, and logistics will continue as planned.
Room Occupancy & Single Supplement
Trip pricing is based on double occupancy rooms, which means:
Two people per room
Two separate beds
If you prefer a private single room, this can be arranged for an additional fee. Please let us know in advance so we can confirm availability and provide the exact cost.
Non-Paddler Option
If someone in your group chooses not to paddle during the River Trip week and instead participates in alternate land-based activities, there is an additional cost of approximately $400 per person.
This fee covers:
Daily transportation to and from alternate activities
Activity coordination and logistics throughout the week
Important clarification:
If you are on the river each day (in a ducky or raft when needed), you are considered a paddler for pricing purposes.
A non-paddler is someone who chooses to participate in alternate activities instead of being on the river.
If you are bringing a non-paddler, please let us know as soon as possible so we can make the proper arrangements and confirm exact pricing.
Solo Week Fee
For designated Solo Weeks, there is an additional fee of $175.
If another kayaker joins the week at the last minute, we will gladly refund this additional solo fee.
What Kayaking Ability Level Is This Trip For?
This trip is designed for kayakers of all ability levels — from first-time river paddlers to experienced Class III/IV boaters. Whether you’re a little rusty or brand new to whitewater, we organize the group by skill level and provide personalized support to help you feel confident and improve throughout the week.
Depending on the makeup of the group, on most days advanced paddlers can run more challenging sections, while beginners work closely with a guide on mellower stretches. For harder Class III+/IV days, we provide raft support, and many guests enjoy joining the raft team for a fun and supportive experience.
On some of the harder Class III+ and Class IV days, we always run raft support and some of our guests will typically choose to join the team on the raft. They always have a fabulous time. Our goal is to help you learn to be a better boater, have fun and feel comfortable on the water.
If you’re traveling with a non-paddling spouse or partner, we are happy to create a separate itinerary for them, including alternate activities and select rafting days so you can still share parts of the adventure
If you have questions, please contact us and we’re happy to talk with you more about which trip is right for you.
What to Expect Once You’re Ready to Signup
When you are ready to book, we typically do a quick phone call and/or trade emails and texts with you to make sure you don’t have questions about the trip. Once we finalize your dates, we will prepare a deposit invoice that will be emailed to you. You can pay online. We will schedule an email to be sent about 90 days prior to your trip to pay for the remaining balance on your trip. You’ll also be able to pay online when that invoice arrives via email.
Once you’ve paid your deposit, you’ll get a series of emails and other communications from us to help you know what to pack, what to expect and how to prepare. You’ll also get a final detailed itinerary with pickup times, phone numbers and all the details you’ll need for sharing with your family back home who will jealously be watching you post facebook photos during your amazing trip.
If you have questions at any time, please contact us and we’re happy to talk with you more about which trip is right for you. We have our team in Costa Rica as well as the support team in the United States that are here to help make this the best trip you’ve ever been on!
Can I bring a spouse, partner or family with me for the week?
YES! We have great options to keep spouses, friends and even kids super busy and having as much fun as you are having on the river. Just let us know if you need more info about options. There is an extra cost for transportation to the alternate activities.
We have a great non-paddler itinerary built right into the week of rivers. You simply have to let us know you’re bringing a non-paddler with you, and we can make all the arrangements. If you want to know more about this option, read about it here.
Secondly, if they are not interested in the offered activities, there are so many things to do in the locations that we visit that we can create a custom itinerary for your family member or friend that is based around their interests. They’ll still be able to join you for breakfast and dinner each day and if they are interested, they can join our group in a raft during some of the days of the trip.
Many of our guests that bring non-paddlers will have us schedule a few extra days at a beach or hot springs/volcano location once the river trip is finished as well so you can spend some relaxing time together before you head home. We can coordinate all of the activities and transportation for you throughout the trip and after the week of rivers is wrapped up.
The price for the non-kayakers will vary based on what activities they choose to do, but we will provide them with a full itinerary full of options that they can select from. We’ll do our best to help make this vacation as memorable for them as the kayaking.
What others saying about our week of Rivers Trips
Want to read more about some of the rivers in Costa Rica?
We’re working on building a comprehensive guide of rivers in Costa Rica along with Walk-Through videos of each of the rivers so people can better understand what each river is like at different water levels. Feel free to check out the link and check back as we continue to build this resource for the paddling community.