Planning a paddling trip in Costa Rica can feel overwhelming. There is a dry season, a wet season, a tourist season, and, best of all, no shortage of rivers.
After living in the Turrialba Valley for several years and exploring many of its nearby rivers, I’ve put together a simple, fun itinerary that makes sense logistically and gets you into great water without crisscrossing the country. It is just a small sampling of what Costa Rica offers, but in one week you will paddle different rivers and spend most of your time in your boat.
Before you go
This itinerary assumes a few things:
- You have whitewater experience. This is not a beginner packrafting route.
- You will fly into SJO (San José). There are two international airports in Costa Rica, and this plan works best from San José.
- You will need a truck or 4×4 vehicle. Four-wheel drives are common to rent here.
- This plan is for dry season only, roughly January through April. Even during these months, double-check water levels, as rain is always possible.
Day 1 – Arrival and Transfer to Turrialba Valley
Fly into SJO and drive to the Turrialba Valley. Stay in the Sitio de Mata or Silencio area to be close to the Río Pejibaye and Pacuare rivers. Turrialba proper is fine too, though it can be hot.
Day 2 – Rio Pejibaye
Lap the Rio Pejibaye twice. At low or normal flows, it is a Class II–III run. For more excitement, start higher up than the school to include the Los Juntos section. You can usually find someone at the takeout to drive you back to your vehicle for around $5, or hire a driver for the day. For lunch, paddle to La Roca (have it pinned on your phone because it is easy to miss from the river).
Day 3 – Upper Upper Pacuare
Cross the ridge and explore the Upper Upper Pacuare. You will need to hire a driver for this day. The scenery is spectacular, the water is clear, and the rapids are fun.
Day 4 – You choose
If water levels are low and you are feeling good in your boat, run the Lower Pacuare as a day trip. You can stay in your same Airbnb and do it as a day trip. Or for a more relaxed experience, book a night at one of the Pacuare lodges. You can raft the first section of the Lower Pacuare today and the second section the next. The lodges handle vehicle logistics, and they are beautiful places to stay.
Day 5 – Lower Pacuare and head back to San Jose
Run the second partof the Lower Pacuare, either from your lodge or as another day trip. Afterward, drive from Siquirres back to San José. It is possible, but not recommended, to paddle the Pacuare and fly out the same day.
Day 6 – Fly home
And come back soon!