A Surfer’s Retreat: Tranquil River Safari in San Ramón
In search of a new adventure away from the waves, I ventured to San Ramón for a river safari float. Join me as I recount the peaceful journey down the Peñas Blancas River, surrounded by wildlife and the tranquility of the forest.
Setting Off on a New Adventure
As a seasoned surfer, I’ve spent countless hours riding the waves and soaking up the sun along the coasts of Central America. But every now and then, I crave a different kind of adventure—one that takes me away from the salty sea breeze and into the heart of the lush, tropical forests. That’s how I found myself in San Ramón, ready to embark on the Peñas Blancas River Safari Float.
The day began with an early morning pickup from the tour’s downtown office. The storefront was a bit tricky to find, but once I parked behind the office, I was greeted by a friendly team of guides and fellow adventurers. The drive to the river was a scenic 30-minute journey, filled with lively chatter and a briefing on what to expect. Our guide, Diego, was a fountain of knowledge, pointing out local sights and sharing stories about the region.
Floating Through Nature’s Wonderland
Once we arrived at the river, the excitement was palpable. We were fitted with life jackets and handed water bottles before boarding our boat. With Diego at the helm, we set off on a peaceful float down the Peñas Blancas River. The absence of motor noise allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the sounds of nature—the rustling of leaves, the calls of distant birds, and the gentle lapping of water against the boat.
The river was a haven for wildlife. We spotted monkeys swinging through the trees, sloths lazily hanging from branches, and iguanas basking in the sun. Diego’s enthusiasm was infectious, and his keen eye ensured we didn’t miss a thing. He even positioned our boat perfectly for capturing stunning photos of the wildlife. It felt as though we had the river to ourselves, with only the occasional glimpse of another boat in the distance.
A Taste of Local Flavors
After about 90 minutes on the water, we reached the end point of our journey. Awaiting us was a charming restaurant where we were treated to refreshing drinks and a spread of local delicacies—yucca bread, fried plantains, and local cheese. As we relaxed and enjoyed the feast, we watched the local birds flit about, adding to the serene atmosphere.
Reflecting on the experience, I realized that this river safari was more than just a tour; it was a chance to connect with nature in a way that surfing the waves couldn’t offer. It was a reminder of the diverse beauty that Central America holds, both on land and at sea. If you ever find yourself in Costa Rica, I highly recommend taking a break from the beach and experiencing the tranquility of the Peñas Blancas River.
