White Water Rafting
Class II & III • Approx. 10 KM • Approx. 2 Hours
From $78 per person. Fruit, lunch, drink, towel, transportation and limited-time photos included.
White Water Rafting — 10:00 AM
Start your Balsa River adventure at 10:00 AM and enjoy approximately 10 km of Class II & III white water, with professional guides and time to enjoy the river experience.
Departure time is subject to availability and current operating or river conditions.
How Long Is the Rafting Experience?
Plan approximately 4.5 hours total for the complete rafting experience.
On the River
Approximately 2 hours floating and rafting on the Balsa River, enjoying the Class II & III white water and the fresh fruit stop.
Transportation + Lunch
Approximately 2.5 additional hours for transportation to and from the river, plus time to enjoy the included traditional Costa Rican lunch.
River time + round-trip transportation + lunch
Total duration is approximate and may vary depending on river conditions, traffic, group logistics and operating conditions.
Balsa River Class II & III
Paddle approximately 10 kilometers of the Balsa River and spend around two hours on the water. The experience combines fun white water, teamwork and Costa Rica’s tropical scenery.
- Class II & III rapids
- Approximately 10 km
- Approximately 2 hours on the river
- Professional rafting guide and equipment
- Fresh tropical fruit during the river experience
- Traditional Costa Rican casado after rafting
What You Get From $78
🍍 Fresh Fruit
Enjoy a fresh tropical fruit snack during the river experience.
🍛 Costa Rican Casado
After rafting, sit down and enjoy a traditional Costa Rican lunch.
🥤 One Drink
Choose water, juice or beer after the activity. Beer is available only to guests of legal drinking age.
🧺 Towel
A towel is provided after rafting so you can dry off and get comfortable.
🚐 Transportation
Complimentary transportation from hotels and accommodations in or near La Fortuna.
📸 Photos
Rafting photos are currently included as a limited-time promotional offer. Terms and availability may apply.
We’ll Teach You the Commands
No previous rafting experience is required for eligible participants. Before the main rapids, your guide explains how to sit, hold the paddle, work as a team and respond to commands.
- Forward
- Back
- Stop
- Get Down
- High Side when needed
Class II & III
Class II: moving water, waves and smaller obstacles.
Class III: stronger rapids and bigger waves where teamwork and guide instructions become especially important.
What if Someone Falls in the Water?
Your guide explains rescue procedures before the main rapids. If you enter moving water, stay calm and listen to the guide. When appropriate, use the defensive swimming position.
Minimum Advertised Age: 7
Balsa River rafting can be a fun family experience for eligible participants. For children around the minimum age, please contact Maquique Adventure before booking. Current river conditions can affect whether participation is appropriate.
Age alone does not determine participation; current conditions and safety requirements come first.
Quick facts
From: $78 per person
River: Balsa
Rapids: Class II & III
Distance: approx. 10 km
River time: approx. 2 hours
Easy Logistics From La Fortuna
🚐 Transportation Included
Complimentary transportation is available from hotels and accommodations in or near La Fortuna. If your hotel is farther away, send us the name and location before booking so we can confirm your options.
🅿️ Free & Secure Parking
Drive to our designated meeting point and park securely at no additional cost. If you arrive in your own vehicle, you can leave after your rafting experience and included services are complete without waiting for the rest of the group’s transportation.
Come Ready to Get Wet
- Quick-dry clothing
- Swimsuit or comfortable shorts
- Secure water shoes or appropriate closed footwear
- Sunscreen
- Change of clothes
- Necessary personal medication
You do not need to bring a towel — we provide one after rafting.
Secure Your Devices
If you bring an approved GoPro, 360° camera or other electronic device, it should be securely attached. Expect everything on the river to get wet.
Rain Is Part of the Rainforest
Normal rain does not automatically cancel rafting. Heavy rainfall can raise river levels and change conditions. Our team evaluates the river and may delay, modify or cancel the activity if conditions are outside the appropriate range.
Wildlife may occasionally be seen along the river, but sightings are never guaranteed.
Balsa River in Action
Photos from Maquique Adventure experiences in Costa Rica.
Rafting Questions
How much does rafting cost?
From $78 per person.
How long are we on the river?
Approximately 2 hours.
How far do we raft?
Approximately 10 kilometers.
What class are the rapids?
Class II & III.
What is the minimum age?
The advertised minimum age is 7. Contact us for children around the minimum age because river conditions may affect participation.
Is food included?
Yes. Fresh tropical fruit is provided during the river experience and a traditional Costa Rican casado is served afterward.
Is a drink included?
Yes. One drink is included: water, juice or beer. Beer is only for guests of legal drinking age.
Is a towel included?
Yes.
Are photos included?
Yes, currently as a limited-time promotional offer. Terms and availability may apply.
Is transportation included?
Yes, from hotels and accommodations in or near La Fortuna.
Can I drive myself?
Yes. Free secure parking is available.
What happens if it rains?
Normal rain does not automatically cancel rafting. Heavy rain can change river levels, so current conditions are evaluated for safety.
BALSA RIVER RAFTING
$78 • 10 KM • 2 HOURS • FRUIT • LUNCH • DRINK • TOWEL • TRANSPORT • FREE PARKING • LIMITED-TIME PHOTOS
Recommended Footwear
For canyoning and rafting, choose secure footwear with good grip. Closed-toe footwear is strongly recommended because it provides better protection for your toes on rocks, trails and uneven surfaces.
