Scuba Diving Fishing Land Rafting Xtreme Adventures Things 2DO

THINGS TO DO / Costa Rica

Pacuare
ONE DAY, CLASS IV WHITE WATER RAFTING.
Price per person: US$95.00

Trip length: 18 miles.
Difficulty: Class III-IV, moderate difficult.
Minimum age: 12 years old

In the Atlantic region of Costa Rica there is a protected zone of incomparable beauty that begins near the town of Siquirres , and covers approximately 10,000 hectares (25,000 acres) as it descends down the Talamanca Mountain Range. The Pacuare is located between the coastal lowlands and the country's highest mountain range and constitutes one of the most important protected areas of major biological importance.

High annual rainfall, along with its proximity to the lowlands and lower altitudes, combine to nature the Pacuare's complex life systems whose abundance make this area a place of extraordinary scenic beauty.

This area is still inhabited by the Cabecares Indians, whose hut dwellings area spaced far apart over large distances, rather than being clustered as was true of most native tribes. The Pacuare is their lifeblood, and you can hike the same paths that this indigenous tribe still uses. Trails in the Pacuare rainforest wander in all directions, cutting through the mountains and permitting exploration, with time to understand and appreciate the beauty of this unique tropical rainforest.

This river has been officially declared a Wild and Scenic River , and offers some of the finest white water in Latin America , winding deep inside of one of Costa Rica most impressive primordial rainforest. You will traverse 20 miles of remote and scenic waters that course through a wilderness of dense vegetation covering the sides of steep gorges that rise above the riverbanks. The thick undergrowth provides shelter for jaguars, ocelots, monkeys, sloth, and numerous other species of animals and birds.

You will break for a delicious lunch served along the river's edge.

PACUARE RIVER . TWO DAYS
$250 per person (based on double occupancy)

DAY 1:
The day begins with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazú and Turrialba volcanoes to the ‘put-in' on the Pacuare River for our two day whitewater adventure. We will run a total of 27 kilometers of Class III–IV rapids exploring this magnificent river valley. This afternoon we arrive at our comfortable riverside camp, “El Nido del Tigre”. Nestled between the sounds of the rainforest and the hum of the river, take time to explore this lush environment first hand by taking trails through the forest to spectacular waterfalls. You have the rare opportunity to visit the home of a wide variety of animals and birds but if the rigors of the day have been enough then relax in a hammock to the sounds of the river, watching for toucans and other bird-life as they fly over the rainforest canopy

DAY 2:
Today the Pacuare leads us through virgin rainforest, cascading waterfalls and river carved canyons. We maneuver through exhilarating rapids and observe the intricacies of the rainforest at the river's edge. Along the way we take time-out to do a side hike to some natural water slides and have lunch on the shore. “Taking out” near the town of Siquirres , we return to San Jose appreciating the breathtaking views as we pass through Braulio Carrillo National Park

Price includes: Transportation from hotel, all meals except dinner on 2nd day, overnight at El Nido del Tigre, all necessary equipment, and professional, bilingual and friendly guides.

SARAPIQUI RIVER

Trip length: 9 miles
Difficulty: Class III, easy-modate
Minimum age: 10 years
Price per person in US$85.00

River rafting on the Sarapiqui River is exciting, fun and safe for all and just might be the highlight of your vacation.

Winding through the region called “Eternal Spring”, this river offers some of Costa Rica 's most lush and vibrant scenery. Free flowing, it has its origins in clear mountain streams that traverses a verdant rain forest and is always exhilarating and beautiful. The streams join together and become the beautiful Sarapiqui. If Matisse had come to Costa Rica , this is what he would have painted.

This narrow, low-volume river is ideal for experienced rafters, white-water novices and families that will enjoy its moderately flowing rapids, interspersed with tranquil stretches. The journey is also excellent for bird-watchers and other nature lovers, as the river stretches its way through lush vegetation that is home to hummingbirds, toucans, woodpeckers, and scores of other native bird species.
Do not miss this classic tropical river experience!

The rafting trip is approximately 3 hours and is normally a class II and III. In the height of the rainy season it may get up to a class 4.Lunch is served on the riverbank at the halfway point. River guides, safety kayakers, life vests and helmets are provided. This river rafting experience may be combined with adventure tours and scuba diving.

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