Class 2-3 Balsa River Rafting: Swift Rapids Amid Costa Rica Rainforest from La Fortuna

Experience the thrill of Class II and III rapids as you paddle through the Costa Rican rainforest on a 2-3 Balsa River rafting tour. Look out for monkeys, sloths, and birds along the way, and enjoy a delicious lunch at Hunters and Gatherers restaurant. Hotel transport included.

Duration: 4 hours
Cancellation: 24 hours
Highlights
  • Unnamed Road - Experience an unforgettable day rafting on one of Costa Rica’s top family-friendly rivers! Just 45 minutes from La Fortuna, the Río Balsa offers exhilarating class 2-3 rapids, perfect for adventure seekers, with the added thrill of spotting diverse wildlife along the way. This is more than just a rafting trip—it’s a true Costa Rican…
What's Included
  • Local guide
  • Hotel pickup and drop-off
  • Use of safety equipment
  • Lunch
  • Photographer (photos available for purchase)
What's Not Included
  • Gratuities
Additional Information

Paddle through Class II and III rapids on this fun white water rafting tour down the Balsa River in Costa Rica. On this 2-hour trip downriver, your guide will lead you through the easy and exciting rapids that flow through Costa Rica rainforest. Keep an eye on the land and sky for monkeys, sloths, and birds. After rafting, reward your efforts with a…

Location
Desafio Adventure Company
We are happy to pick you up at your hotel or rental home, but you can also easily fin dour office in the center of La Fortuna, 100 meters West of the Central Park.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Customer Ratings
4.9
(288 Ratings)
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Paradise737899
Apr 13, 2025
Family favorite in Costa Rica - Based on the reviews I had really high expectations for this experience - and it absolutely delivered. This activity was perfect for our family - we had only rafted once before but like adrenaline-y type activities. We felt completely safe after a good safety walk through and with our guide, Diego (who was an absolute blast!). I don't think I stopped smiling the whole time. We did a lot of things on our Costa Rica trip - and our kids (ages 16 and 14) rated this as one of their favorite experiences - and it was my absolute favorite. Thank you Diego and crew. Five stars.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kdavison8109
Apr 8, 2025
Pura Vida rafting - We had a blast on this excursion! We went in a group of 3 couples and had our own raft. Our guide was really fun and informative and we enjoyed the experience! It was just enough excitement with calm waters and a great first time. Thank you!
Review provided by Viator
G7228rxjaredc
Mar 31, 2025
These guys are awesome! - This was amazing. Top notch from the moment they picked us up. Jorge was our guide along with three other crew members. They were engaging and friendly. All facilities were super clean and they seemed really interested in us and wanted to make sure we had a great time. The river rafting was excellent. Our whole family was able to go from 11 years old to 18. I can’t say enough good things about this experience. Thank you!
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Ronnymar
Mar 27, 2025
So much fun!!! - I was afraid at first since I’m not the best swimmer but the guides made sure I felt comfortable and safe. I must say this was my favorite activity in fortuna. Emmanuel and Diego were amazing. Very energetic and fun guys. I definitely recommend this tour 🙌🏻
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jucoed
Mar 22, 2025
Great day - well organised and professional. - Brilliant trip from the time our guide collected us from our hotel until our return. We were given a full and thorough safety briefing and carefully fitted with life jackets and helmets. Having never done any rafting previously I was a little apprehensive beforehand but felt very confident in our instructor Alfonso who put us through a practice run then guided us professionally down the course with clear instructions. It was huge fun and despite being in our seventies and sixties respectively , my husband and I hugely enjoyed the experience. We were served a delicious traditional lunch on our return to base served by the enthusiastic and hard working crew. Would definitely recommend. Thank you.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Df_in_ny
Mar 22, 2025
A great time, even with some unexpected swimming. - Had a great time. Alonzo is an excellent raft guide. Some boats tipped and kids ended up in the water and were very upset but everyone on staff reacted quickly and professionally, put ropes out to pull them in and made sure everyone was safe. Strongly recommend this outfit, even though $40 for photos/video is too high.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Kristen_t
Mar 15, 2025
Great Day! - We had a great day rafting- the guides were friendly and helpful. The rafting was perfect for a family. The meal afterwards was tasty.
Review provided by Viator
Carolyn_l
Mar 1, 2025
Excellent / tons of fun! - Lots of fun. Good information re what to expect. Good safety information. Our guide Manuel was AWESOME!!
Review provided by Viator
Marymo5676gp
Feb 19, 2025
Great time white water rafting! - The guides were super nice and everything was organized. We had such an amazing time. Doing class 2/3 was perfect for families who want adventure and thrill without feeling scared. We got to swim in the river when it was calm and then blast through the rapids when it was rough. Super fun! Highly recommend.
Review provided by Tripadvisor
Jennifer_k
Apr 19, 2025
Do again, probably not. - Our reservation was scheduled and confirmed and when we showed up we were told that time didn't exisit so we have to wait 40 mins. It was a lot of fun but you have to stop frequently and wait for the other rafts which we weren't expecting. Our guide was super nice
Review provided by Viator
From $80
up to 9 guests
1 - Adult
Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start of your experience (local time).