Penas Blancas River
Known as the "white water gem of Costa Rica's Atlantic slope", the Penas Blancas River runs right through the Tilaran Mountain Range in north central Costa Rica. It then converges with the San Carlos River east of the Arenal Volcano.
Plan my TripPlanned with a local insider, takes just 2 minutes.
This clear water river is fed by the pristine waters of several private cloud forest reserves in Monteverde and is surrounded by lush rainforest, natural volcanic hot springs, waterfalls and forested canyons that measure upwards of 700 feet (213 m) in height. In other words, the Peñas Blancas River is an indisputable scenic adventure.
Much of the river is relatively calm, but parts boast class II through IV rapids. Most visitors to the river enjoy a calm safari float to take advantage of the hot springs, waterfalls and abounding wildlife which includes monkeys, sloths, river turtles, crocodiles, iguanas and many bird species.
Wildlife Sightings
Spotted at Penas Blancas River
White-faced capuchin monkey
Humpback whale
Sea turtles
Resplendent quetzal
Jaguar
Scarlet macaw
Keel-billed toucan
Red-eyed tree frog
Blue jeans frog
Howler monkey
Squirrel monkey
Baird's tapir
Agouti
Coati
American crocodile
Green iguana
Fer-de-lance
Bullet ant
Magnificent frigatebird
Tours & Activities
Experiences in Penas Blancas River
Explore hand-picked Penas Blancas River tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
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Trips to Inspire
Penas Blancas River itineraries
Explore hand-picked Penas Blancas River itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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8 days · Arenal, Manuel Antonio
Friends
Costa Rica is a beautiful place - the biodiversity in terms of animals and plant life is spectacular. The beaches, the natural landscapes - all of it is stunning. The people are kind and welcoming, truly living the Pura Vida lifestyle.
Costa Rica
From $985 per person
11 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Montezuma
Family
Anywhere is the company we will book our trips again and again. We will recommend YOU to everyone. Costa Rica is a heaven on earth. We are so happy to have had a reliable car to cover so much millage in 8 days and get to experience so many different climate and sceneries in just a short time. It was amazing to be connected to the locals and experience so much nature, culture, beauty, comfort, joy and hospitality in a short time. Thank you Anywhere. You are one of the best finds we have landed in our lives. Your team and your knowledge deserves a gold medal.
Costa Rica
From $928 per person
11 days · Playa Hermosa Guanacaste, Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
Family
This is our favourite family trip ever. We'll come back to visit or live.
Costa Rica
From $1,353 per person
16 days · San Jose, Puerto Viejo de Limon, Arenal, Monteverde +2
Couple
It was a beautiful holiday; we had a lot of fun and relaxation. There are a lot of things you can do in Costa Rica –– we never got tired. We saw amazing sights and animals, the 'Pura Vida' lifestyle is unforgettable!
Costa Rica
From $2,921 per person
11 days · La Paz Waterfall, Arenal, Papagayo Gulf
Couple
My husband and I are lucky enough to have traveled to many places. Our Costa Rica trip was one of the best vacations we have ever taken. I was so impressed with how smooth all of our plans went. We look forward to returning in a few years.
Costa Rica
From $6,503 per person
11 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
Couple
Julie and her partner celebrated their honeymoon exploring Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems. From Monteverde’s cloud forest to Arenal’s volcano, they trekked trails, enjoyed a chocolate‑cocoa tour, then relaxed on Manuel Antonio’s beaches before paddling at Damas Estuary. Guides shared local stories and sustainable practices, letting them feel Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and leaving a lasting appreciation for its diverse wildlife and conservation.
Costa Rica
From $2,697 per person
15 days · San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde, Montezuma
Solo
Pura Vida!!! The people are very friendly the food is amazing the landscape is breathtaking.
Costa Rica
From $3,833 per person
10 days · Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, Arenal, Tortuguero
Couple
Amazing country but let anywhere arrange drivers etc.
Costa Rica
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15 days · Monteverde, Arenal, Tortuguero, Golfito +1
Couple
Sun, sand, and adventure –– the vacation you deserve is waiting for you in beautiful Costa Rica, where you’ll enjoy catamaran sailing, whitewater rafting, nature hikes, and more.
Costa Rica
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12 days · San Jose, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde +2
Couple
Excellent accommodations, plenty of outdoor adventure, and the beauty of nature. The perfect couples getaway is real, and it’s waiting for you in Costa Rica.
Costa Rica
8 daysInquire
Our Easy Escape to Pura Vida
Having booked through Anywhere.com was the best decision. It was a wonderful getaway from Arenal to Monteverde, and then to Manuel Antonio. The views were stunning and the experience so memorable.
Costa Rica
From $840 per person
9 days · Arenal, Monteverde
Family
It was by far the best destination I have visited so far. The place is breathtaking, people are super friendly and helpful. Their outlook on life and nature is so optimistic and eco-conscious that it’s contagious. The fresh air, food and water is a must experience for anyone looking to detox. I would definitely come back again. Anywhere.com made it even more enjoyable by helping us plan and they don’t falsify like other companies. What you get is what they tell. They are very helpful to work with and are available anytime. Looking forward to planning my Peru trip with you all soon!!
Costa Rica
From $1,507 per person
20 days · San Jose, Arenal, Monteverde
Friends
Don’t miss out on the night tours, as they were a fantastic way to see a lot of wildlife you never see during the day, including many species of frogs, snakes, and birds.
Costa Rica
From $1,461 per person
9 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
Couple
I was very impressed with everything Costa Rica is doing to preserve its rain forests, rivers, oceans, etc.
Costa Rica