Tours and Tickets
Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica
5

Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica

By Arenal Rafting
Recommended by 98% of travellers
98% of reviewers gave this product a bubble rating of 4 or higher.
About
This white-water rafting trip takes you through the middle of the Costa Rican rain forest while providing unbeatable adventure. Spike your adrenaline paddling down class II and III rapids, stopping to swim in secluded waters and admire tropical scenery along the way. Tour includes all equipment, safety training, and lunch.
from
AU$105.18
per adult
Lowest price guaranteeReserve now & pay laterFree cancellation

Ages 5-65, max of 100 per group
Duration: 5h
Start time: Check availability
Mobile ticket
Live guide: English
More

Highlights
  • Power down the Balsa River for a look at Costa Rica’s wild side
  • Chances to see sloths, monkeys, and more
  • Guided white-water rafting trip balances adventure and safety
  • Costa Rican-style lunch and snacks are included

  • Professional guide
  • Transportation from hotels located less than 6 km away from our main office
  • Bottled water
  • Towel
  • Lunch
What's not included
  • Souvenir photos (available to purchase) at the end of the tour.
  • Pick up service at hotels located over 6 km away from our main office

Make your own way to the rafting office to meet your guide and begin your tour. Practice a few key safety maneuvers before heading out on the Balsa River. This rafting trip takes you down six miles (10 kilometers) of class II to III white-water rapids that keep your adrenaline pumping. Work together with your group to paddle hard and navigate the water while your guide steers the raft and keeps you safe. Stop along the way to rest, swim, snack, and admire views of the surrounding rain forest, with opportunities to see animals like sloths, howler monkeys, aquatic birds, and more. The tour concludes with a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local restaurant.

Departure details
  • Traveller pickup is offered.
  • -Bring comfortable clothes to get wet and paddle, secure shoes for rafting (closed toed shoes are safer, flip flops or crocs are NOT RECOMMENDED), bring also changing clothes. -Make sure you show up at the reception of your hotel or pick up place at the right time. Guides and drivers only wait a maximun of 5 minutes after the pick up time. If you are not sure about your PICK UP TIME call or send a whatsapp message to +506 89342626. Please Note: "Pick up time" refers to the time we pick you up at the hotel, "Start Time" refers the time when the tour starts. Pick up service is included ONLY for hotels located 5 km around La Fortuna Central Park. We DO NOT offer pick service on Airbnb, however you can drive or take a taxi to our main office in La Fortuna, where we offer safe parking and more facilities.
  • Arenal Rafting, Av 333 y Calle 460, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica If you do not need to pick up, you can get to our office at 9:15 am. We are located 100 meters north from the police station, avenue 333 street 460. You can find us On Waze or google maps as ARENAL RAFTING COMPANY.
  • Hotel pickup is offered. View the hotel list on our checkout page to see if yours is included among the pickup points.
Return details
  • Returns to original departure point

  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Near public transportation
If you have questions about accessibility, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 36775P1

  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • A minimum of 2 people per booking is required
  • Minimum age 5 years old
  • Maximum weights 220 pounds
  • Please bring changing clothes, water shoes, clothes to get wet
  • Not recommended for travellers with back problems
  • Not recommended for pregnant travellers
  • No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
  • Travellers should have a strong physical fitness level
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 100 travellers

  • For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience.

How much is Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica?
Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica price starts from AU$102.60. Discover and book Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica on Tripadvisor
What is the Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica cancellation policy?
Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica cancellation policy: For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours in advance of the start date of the experience. Discover and book Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica on Tripadvisor
Which company provides Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica?
Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica is hosted by Arenal Rafting. Read reviews, discover additonal experiences or contact Arenal Rafting on Tripadvisor. Discover and book Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica on Tripadvisor
How much time do I need for Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica?

If you have questions about this tour or need help making your booking, we’d be happy to help. Just call the number below and reference the product code: 36775P1

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About the operator
Arenal Rafting
3,256
Costa Rica
Joined in January 2015

#1 of 252 Tours & Activities in La Fortuna de San Carlos
  • Safari08921090202
    Safari08921090202
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    Unforgettable Experience
    Rafting in La Fortuna created memories that will last a lifetime. The combination of challenging rapids, breathtaking scenery, and the camaraderie with fellow rafters made this experience truly special. Whether you're a seasoned rafter or a first-timer, La Fortuna offers an unforgettable white water rafting adventure.
  • 352jacquelynt
    352jacquelynt
    0
    0
    Safety First
    The guides prioritized safety at all times. They conducted thorough safety briefings before the journey, provided us with the necessary gear, and were vigilant throughout the entire rafting trip. This attention to safety standards gave us confidence and allowed us to fully enjoy the adventure.
  • Raymanthe3rd
    Raymanthe3rd
    0
    0
    So much fun!
    Great fun! Definitely would recommend! We did the canoeing and rafting tour combined. Well oiled machine, the guides are brilliant. Super engaging, fun and it’s all very safe.
  • domingokj
    domingokj
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    0
    Refreshing Swim Stops
    Between the rapids, we had the opportunity to cool off with refreshing swim stops. The clear, cool waters of the river were a welcome break, allowing us to relax and soak in the natural beauty surrounding us.
  • zachpowers
    zachpowers
    0
    0
    True adventure on the river
    Arenal Rafting led a fun and safe trip. The rapids were thrilling, we spotted fun wildlife on the second half of the trip, and even the fruit break was great. Jason guided us safely through every rapid, and everyone stayed in our boat the whole time. It was a great day, and I'd recommend it to anyone.
  • Safari08921090202
    Safari08921090202
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    0
    Heart-Pounding Rapids
    The rapids were no joke! If you're an adrenaline junkie seeking an intense white water rafting experience, La Fortuna is the place to be. The challenging rapids kept us on our toes and provided an unforgettable adventure.
  • derrickasey
    derrickasey
    0
    0
    Nice Excursion
    From the moment we booked the trip to the end of the rafting journey, everything was well-organized. The tour company provided quality equipment, clear instructions, and efficient transportation, making the entire experience hassle-free.
  • errolschweizer
    errolschweizer
    0
    0
    Family Adventure
    We took our whole family, including kids, on this rafting trip, and it turned out to be a fantastic choice. The guides made sure everyone felt comfortable and safe, and the moderate rapids were perfect for a family adventure
  • Henderson2323455611
    Henderson2323455611
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    Professional Guides
    Our guides were top-notch professionals who not only knew how to navigate the rapids skillfully but also shared interesting insights about the local flora and fauna. Their passion for the environment and love for adventure added to the overall enjoyment of the trip.
  • efraingue
    efraingue
    0
    0
    Breathtaking Scenery
    The scenery along the rafting route was absolutely stunning. Surrounded by dense rainforest and glimpses of the majestic Arenal Volcano in the background, the beauty of La Fortuna added an extra layer of magic to the entire rafting adventure.
  • I2521VFdanielr
    I2521VFdanielr
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    0
    Great Adventure
    White water rafting in La Fortuna was an adrenaline-pumping experience! The rapids were challenging yet manageable, and the lush surroundings of the Arenal region added to the overall excitement. Our guide was knowledgeable and made sure we had a safe yet exhilarating journey down the river
  • F9141RIdonaldc
    F9141RIdonaldc
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    0
    A Perfect Blend of Nature and Adventure on Balsa River
    The Balsa River journey was a perfect blend of adrenaline-pumping excitement and serene natural beauty. The rapids were challenging enough to satisfy adventure enthusiasts, yet the calm sections allowed us to absorb the breathtaking surroundings. The guides' expertise and passion for the river shone through, making this experience a highlight of our Costa Rican vacation. I highly recommend Balsa River for an unforgettable adventure.
  • robertjF3926WP
    robertjF3926WP
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    0
    Stunning Rapids at Balsa River
    Rafting on the Balsa River exceeded my expectations. Arenal Rafting Adventures provided top-notch equipment, safety measures, and expert guides who navigated us through thrilling rapids. The attention to detail and the friendly atmosphere created by the staff added to the overall enjoyment of the experience. If you're a fan of water adventures, Balsa River Rafting is a must-try.
  • edwardgB3969LU
    edwardgB3969LU
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    0
    Excitement on Balsa River
    Balsa River with Arenal Rafting. Adventures is perfect for families seeking a mix of adventure and safety. Our kids had a blast navigating the gentle rapids, and the guides ensured a family-friendly experience. The beautiful surroundings and the crystal-clear waters of the Balsa River made it an ideal setting for a memorable family adventure. Thumbs up to Sarapiqui Adventures for catering to all ages!
  • johnbL1321GJ
    johnbL1321GJ
    0
    0
    A Day of Fun and Adventure with Balsa River
    Our experience on the Balsa River was nothing short of amazing! Balasa River Adventures provided a seamless and enjoyable rafting trip. The river's rapids were exhilarating, and the scenic beauty along the way made it an unforgettable day. The guides' expertise and the overall organization of the trip showcased a commitment to customer satisfaction. A must-try for adventure seekers!
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5.0
589 reviews
Excellent
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Michelle M
Charlotte, NC7 contributions
My husband & I thoroughly enjoyed this experience. I’ve never been white water rafting before so I was a little nervous at first, but that quickly went away once we got into the water. The guide was super experienced & kept us safe while letting us have a ton of fun zipping through the waves. He even stopped a couple times to show us Tuscan birds that he would spot. We stopped halfway through and enjoyed some fresh fruit which was a also treat! At the end, they served us a delicious Costa Rican lunch while we watched a slide of professional photos that they took of us. You had an option of purchasing them but in no way did they pressure to do so. We usually wouldn’t purchase those types of photos but these were SO GOOD (& funny), we just had to! I would give them A+++ for their professionalism, expertise, and overall experience. We saw some other tours out there and honestly, I thought the others were overly crowded and rushed compared to ours. Highly recommend this company! Don’t hesitate to book. PS: COVID protocols were in place too so we left safe in that aspect as well.
Written 16 February 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hi Michell thank you so much for taking the time to share this 5-star review with our team! We love hearing how much you enjoyed our Rafting trip. It’s wonderful to know we did a great job. We know you have choices when it comes to your travel adventures, and it means the world to us that you’ve chosen to book an experience with our team. Thank you again for supporting our local business and we hope you’ll visit us in the future!Our priority is is that our customer have the best adventure with our team and we are ecstatic that we met that mark! Best regards.
Written 17 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

McKenna M
2 contributions
Jun. 2021 • Family
This was amazing! Our guide Roberto made everything so fun and I was amazed at his knowledge of the river. He made everyone in our group feel comfortable, even I, who was a little bit nervous. We had so much fun with him and we’re sad to leave. All of the other guides were super helpful as well. We had said we wanted to go a little crazy and ended up tipping a few times. All of the other rafts were quick to help up anyone who had fallen and even helped us find 3/4 shoes that got ripped off. The lunch provided was delicious and was the cherry on top of a fun ride. Highly recommend this company
Written 24 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hello, We are very happy to hear that you had a great time and felt safe in the river with us. We really appreciate and appreciate that you took the time to post an excellent review about us, here on TripAdvisor.
Written 17 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

C.
Milan, Italy42 contributions
As we were looking for adrenaline as much as safety,we were totally fulfilled by the experience. The guides are extremely professional and it was a great first time doing rafting. The whole journey was exciting but not scary, falling in the water was safe and (as it turns out) expected ! Loved it !
Written 14 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hola Thanks for having booked with Arenal Rafting Company! We are very glad and proud of your feedback, also in the future, we appreciate any recommendations and amazing commentary. Best regards,
Written 24 March 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Emilia S
Fort Worth, TX3 contributions
Jun. 2021
We did the White Water Rafting with Arenal Rafting during our trip and it was a highlight for sure!! We were on a raft with Roberto, and he was an amazing guide!! Our boat had so much fun together. He pointed out all the animal siting's, made us laugh and had a great spirit. We HIGHLY recommend him as a guide and Arenal Rafting as a whole.
Written 10 June 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hi Emilias, Thank you so much for taking the time to share this 5-star review with our team! We love hearing how much you enjoyed our Rafting trip. It’s wonderful to know we did a great job. We know you have choices when it comes to your travel adventures, and it means the world to us that you’ve chosen to book an experience with our team. Thank you again for supporting our local business and we hope you’ll visit us in the future!
Written 17 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Judith K
5 contributions
What an amazing day!!!!
Juan R. Was the perfect host and even introduced to new fruits at the fruit stand you stop at just prior to the rapids.

His brother Carlos R. was our on river guide. He was experienced, funny, and talented. We felt very safe and he was so kind to our son and let him ride “ cowboy” and float downstream for a bit.

This company is beyond well organized and safe. The lunch was good and the photos they take of you on the rapids are well worth the purchase!

I already have friends coming this week!

Run don’t walk to Arenal Rafting!

*****
Written 4 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Mandy Z
Denver, CO11 contributions
Dec. 2021 • Solo
This tour was a highlight of my entire trip. You will have a blast. The entire crew is full of energy and loads of fun. This class/level of rapids is a good introductory experience, too. You will be very lucky if you get Kevin as your guide! You can tell he loves what he does, and he's a very skilled rafting guide. Thanks, Arenal Rafting Co!
Written 26 December 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hi, Thank you so much for taking the time to share this 5-star review with our team our guides love to be fun and they really enjoy giving our customers the best experience possible! We love hearing how much you enjoyed our Rafting trip. It’s wonderful to know we did a great job on our Class 3/4 trip. We know you have choices when it comes to your travel adventures, and it means the world to us that you’ve chosen to book an experience with our team. Thank you again for supporting our local business and we hope you’ll visit us in the future!
Written 30 December 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Peter S
Sheffield, UK25 contributions
Apr. 2022
My wife and I did the rafting in April 2022. It was our first time. Although my wife had some trepidation at the outset her concerns were assuaged by the professional nature of the operation. After booking we were picked up from our hotel. On arrival we were divided into groups for each boat and assigned a member of staff who was the coxon. Before starting we were measured for safety helmet, life jacket and paddle and received comprehensive health & safety briefing and instruction before entering the river. We a great fun experience and we both felt totally safe. Our coxon (Coco) had great energy and enthusiasm which added to ur enjoyment. At the half way point there is a stop to eat fresh melon, pineapple and papaya which was welcome before continuing. At the end end of the 12 KM trip you are transported back to the rafting base where there are facilities to change before eating a hearty lunch and reviewing the photos (available to purchase) taken by the staff during the trip. I would certainly recommend not just rafting but rafting the Arenal rafting.
Written 16 May 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

Robin V
2 contributions
Jun. 2023 • Family
These guys did an amazing job taking us rafting down the Balsa River. We are a family of 6 with our youngest being 6.5 and all our kids under the age of 11. We had originally booked a class 2/3 rating tour but when we got to the meeting station we were informed that the only portion of the river available to start from was the class 3/4. They put us with Roberto who had 20 years of experience. My kids had a wonderful time! He modified the raft to create more handholds so my two youngest could hold on securely. He took us on just enough of a thrill ride to make everyone happy but not so scary that this momma would cry. Definitely go with these guys. Roberto also stopped the boat to show us frogs and monkeys and explain the wildlife as well.
Written 23 June 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.

saucydianaa
1 contribution
This was such an amazing white water rafting tour! We had Oso as our guide and he was the best. He made everyone laugh the entire time and spoke english very well. The river has some good wild parts and some easy ones as well where you can get off the boat and swim. If we wanted something more crazy our guide let us “bull ride” the waves by sitting all the way on the tip of front of the boat which of course was awesome. Overall, we had so much fun on a very safe environment. I was terrified going into this but the whole crew knows exactly what they’re doing on the river, they have a whole system and they work together as a team to make sure all the boats are doing good and have arrived safely to each point. So if you’re having doubts.. don’t ! just go for it!
Written 6 July 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Arenalrafting
Hello, Thanks for the awesome review! We work hard to meet expectations like yours, and we’re happy to hear we hit the mark for you. Reviews like this one, make us feel pasion for our job, come back and see us soon. PURA VIDA!
Written 11 July 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

Annabel R
London, UK9 contributions
The rafting trip was absolutely brilliant! Our guide, Horacio, was amazing - he made it safe but great fun for our family of 5 (kids aged 10 and 11). Everything about the trip was 5 star… the transport, entertaining guide on the bus (Juan), equipment, rafting, fresh fruits on the river and even a delicious lunch and coffee on return to la Fortuna (as good as any other restaurant foods we’ve had in Costa Rica). My daughter said this was one of the best things she’s ever done! Really, this is a five star activity in all respects. Thank you Arenal Rafting and especially Horacio and Juan!!
Written 24 December 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Jessy_Quesada_ARC
Hello, thank you so much for your review, we appreciate alot you have taking time to post this for our staff, we work hard everyday to hit every cuestomer expectations even tho it requires alot of effort, we are a staff fully organized and qualified, we are proud of been the best Rafting Company and truly greatful for your preference ! ¡Pura Vida!
Written 2 January 2023
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.

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Balsa River White Water Rafting class 2/3 in Costa Rica provided by Arenal Rafting