The Rio Chirripo is an excellent alternative to the Sarapiqui River, which we can no longer navigate due to mudslides caused by the recent earthquake. The Chirripo has plenty of class-II rapids and approximately 10 class-III rapids, which makes for a fun but relatively easy white water trip that is ideal for family groups and beginners.

The river, which originates on the slopes of Irazu Volcano and Braulio Carrillo National Park, flows out of pristine tropical forests, which ensure that its waters are pure and clear. The vegetation along the rafting route is mostly secondary forest dominated by trees such as Cecropia, Sotacaballo and Chilamate.

After picking clients up at their hotels, we drive approximately two hours to the site where the rafting tour begins, stopping en route for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast. Following safety training and the distribution of life vests, helmets and paddles, our expert guides provide a quick introduction to white water rafting, and the excitement begins.

Rafters float past exuberant vegetation and paddle through bouncy, bubbly rapids, which thrill without threatening. They’ll enjoy a hearty picnic lunch served on the riverbank before navigating the last stretch of the river. At the takeout spot, they’ll have a chance to change onto dry clothes before beginning the drive back to San Jose.

Rate: $80.00 per person

• Trip Length: 7 to 8 hours
• Minimum Age: 8 years
• Departures: All year round.
• Includes: Transportation, breakfast, picnic lunch, rafting equipment, bilingual guides and taxes.

Please bring appropriate shoes and apparel for hiking and rafting (shoes or sandals that can get wet and will not slip off), light jacket, bathing suit or swim trunks, change of clothes, towel, waterproof camera, and your “sense of adventure”!