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 .
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.
Penas Blancas River itineraries from local insiders
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.
Family Annual Adventure
It's a beautiful country and the rainforest, Arenal volcano, rafting safari and catamaran sail were all wonderful. We learned a lot,laughed a lot, and would go back.
Adventure Across Costa Rica's Wild Coast
The excursions and scenery are incredible.
Tropical Adventure with 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.
Family Fun in Costa Rica
This trip was perfect for our family of 4! It was full of adventure for EVERYONE! Usually our vacations consists of entertainment for the kids but on this vacation we all got to enjoy so much. We have a 5 and 9 year old and we did zip lining, safari boat tour, coffee/chocolate tour, hot springs, waterfall hike, manual Antonio national park and so much more!! We were here for 11 days (2 of them travel days) and it was just enough time! I can’t wait to come back!
This Was Heaven on Earth
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.
Wow We Had Fun!
This is our favourite family trip ever. We'll come back to visit or live.
Caribbean, Cloud Forests, & Pacific Beaches
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!
A Pura Vida Anniversary Eco-Escape
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.
Honeymoon Through Costa Rica’s Wild Heart
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.
Explore Costa Rica Relocation
Pura Vida!!! The people are very friendly the food is amazing the landscape is breathtaking.
Family Adventure Forests & Beaches
From the misty peaks of Arenal’s volcano to the breezy surf of Tamarindo, this Costa Rican adventure balances wild nature with laid‑back beach vibes. After two nights exploring La Fortuna’s Arenal Volcano, waterfalls, and hanging bridges, you’ll trek Monteverde’s cool cloud forest for zip‑line thrills before soaking up Tamarindo’s sunny surf and sunset catamaran. Friendly local guides and welcoming hosts share Costa Rican hospitality, letting you taste fresh cuisine, learn about conservation, and leave with memories of vibrant rainforests, ocean breezes, and adventurous spirit.
Family Exploration of Costa Rica
From the mist‑shrouded peaks of Arenal to the sun‑kissed shores of Manuel Antonio, this Costa Rican adventure blends rugged volcano landscapes with vibrant Pacific coast serenity. You’ll trek Arenal’s hanging bridges, plunge into La Fuerza waterfall, raft the Sarapiquí, then soar above Monteverde’s cloud forest on sky trams and treks before snorkeling in Manuel Antonio’s reserve. Friendly local guides and community hosts share stories, flavors, and wildlife insights, leaving your family with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s biodiversity, warm hospitality, and adventurous spirit.
Birthday Adventure Together
Amazing country but let anywhere arrange drivers etc.
Knockin' on Paradise's Door
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.
Jungle & Beach Safari Fun
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.
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.
4 in 1 Tour - Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Tabacon Hot Springs
2 in 1 Safari Float and Chocolate Tour
2 in 1 Safari Float and La Fortuna Waterfall
2 in 1 Hanging Bridges and Safari Float
2 in 1 Volcano Hike and Safari Float
2 in 1 Safari Float and Sloth Territory
3 in 1 Volcano Hike, Safari Float and Sloth Territory
3 in 1 Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall and Sloth Territory
3 in 1 Volcano Hike, Safari Float and Chocolate Tour
3 in 1 Safari Float, Sloth Territory and Chocolate Tour
4 in 1 Tour - Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Choyin Thermal River
4 in 1 Tour - Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall, Chocolate Tour and Eco Termales
3 in 1 Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall and Chocolate Tour
3 in 1 Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall and Volcano Hike
4 in 1 Tour - Safari Float, La Fortuna Waterfall, Volcano Hike and Baldi Hot Springs
Where to stay in Penas Blancas River
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Penas Blancas River accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Finca Luna Nueva Lodge
Dedicated to preserving the precious rainforest and maintaining a sacred bond with the land, the Finca Luna Nueva Lodge is a rustic yet luxurious eco-lodge located outside of La Fortuna, Central Highlands. Originally a ginger and turmeric farm, this certified organic biodynamic farm is alive with energy and eager to convey its knowledge of sustainable practices.
Chachagua Rainforest Hotel
Just east of the world renowned Arenal Volcano in the Central Highlands, the Chachagua Rain Forest Eco Lodge is a 300-acre working ranch and eco-adventurers paradise. A perfect fusion of eco-friendly practices and generous hospitality, this hotel demonstrates a new vision of sustainability through its commitment to farming and environmental stewardship.
Arenal Country Inn
Set among lush green gardens, the Arenal Country Inn is a safe and comfortable place for travelers, especially families, to enjoy the Costa Rican countryside. Only a kilometer from the La Fortuna town center, this is a great location for exploring the majestic Arenal Volcano and adventure activities in the Northern Lowlands.
Casa Luna Hotel and Spa
Casa Luna Hotel andSpa is situated on the foothills of the Arenal Volcano, a few minutes’ drive from the town of La Fortuna in the northern highlands of Costa Rica. The property occupies a landscaped garden that overlooks the volcanic cone and the surrounding rainforest, giving guests an immediate sense of place within one of the country’s most visited natural areas.
Monte Real Hotel
Monte Real offers travelers the best of both worlds — it’s in the midst of the busy town of La Fortuna, but also offers a serene view of the Arenal Volcano, which you’ll get to learn more about on nature walks through the park and on boating tours of Arenal Lake. It’s also a tree-filled property, allowing you to have a bit of an oasis from the town, in spite of being an easy walk from all of the town’s traveler services.
Las Colinas Arenal Hotel
Only one block from La Fortuna central park and a 40 minute drive to the famous Arenal Volcano, Las Colinas Arenal Hotel is conveniently located and provides truly local hospitality. Homey style accommodations in a small hotel setting make this family run Northern Lowlands establishment a simple and affordable stay.
Hotel San Bosco
Situated in downtown La Fortuna, Hotel San Bosco provides guests with easy access to the sights and activities of the wonderful Arenal area.
Hotel Arenal Rabfer
The Arenal Rabfer Hotel is located just two blocks from the central park of La Fortuna Costa Rica home to the famous Arenal Volcano and the adventure tour center of Costa Rica.
Magic Mountain Hotel
Nestled on the foothills of the Arenal Volcano in the province of Alajuela, Magic Mountain Hotel offers a convenient base for travelers who wish to explore the natural beauty of Costa Rica’s northern region. The property is situated a short walk from the small town of La Fortuna, allowing easy access to restaurants, shops, and the main thoroughfare that leads to the volcano’s national park.
Tilajari Eco Resort Hotel
Overlooking the San Carlos River, the Tilajari Hotel Resort and Conference Center is located outside of Muelle San Carlos in the sweeping agricultural landscape of the Northern Lowlands. Founded as a recreational country club, the Tilajari Hotel offers a comprehensive blend of on-site sporting facilities and access to both adventure and relaxation activities in the surrounding areas.
Lomas del Volcan
Lomas del Volcan is located in the northern region of the country, near the town of La Fortuna.
Hotel La Pradera del Arenal
Hotel La Pradera del Arenal is situated in the northern lowland region of Costa Rica, near the town of La Fortuna. This region is surrounded by a tropical humid forest, lush flora and fauna and is blessed by the natural wonder of the Arenal Volcano. This is a fantastic place for avid nature lovers, bird watchers and eco-travelers. La Fortuna is a wonderful hub to venture out and see the many splendors of the area.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Get StartedPrivate drivers; English-speaking available.
Avoid the crowds in private day tours.
Better stays, better pacing, better reservations.
Insider-only experiences and exclusive local partners.
24/7 in-country support by phone, text, and WhatsApp.
Insider-led Costa Rica Design & Concierge
Your insider team designs the trip around what you care about, then supports you in-country with private logistics, vetted partners, and concierge help when plans change.
Real Voices, Real Benefits
We believe travel is more than ticking destinations off a list, it's about discovering new places deeply, feeling connected wherever you go, and knowing you have a trusted team of local experts behind you every step of the way.
