Rio Frio
Stretching across northwestern Costa Rica and into Nicaragua is the calm Río Frío. The most visited portion of the river is certainly the section that goes through the Cano Negro Wildlife Refuge, a great destination for river safaris and wildlife viewing.
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The mellow river is surrounded by wetlands that get flooded in the rainy season, forming a vast lake. The most scenic stretch of the river is the Cano Negro portion, a scene reminiscent of the Florida everglades. This area is also home to an abundance of underwater wildlife including fresh water sharks, caimans and hundreds of amphibians and reptiles.
Safari floats, which provide fantastic wildlife and scenic views, are the most popular activity on Río Frío. But the river is also great for fishing. Snook, guapote, alligator gar, drum and tarpons that have been known to weigh as much as 220 lbs (100 kg) all populate this river's waters.
Wildlife Sightings
Spotted at Rio Frio
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 Rio Frio
Explore hand-picked Rio Frio tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Arenal
Cano Negro
Tour
Trips to Inspire
Rio Frio itineraries
Explore hand-picked Rio Frio itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
From $1,164 per person
7 days · Arenal, Monteverde, Manuel Antonio
Family
We all loved Costa Rica and had a great time. It was nice to see sustainability practices at the hotels although it was not what we really considered when choosing a hotel. However, it was nice to see.
Costa Rica
From $1,645 per person
17 days · Puerto Viejo de Limon, Tortuguero, Arenal, Monteverde +1
Family
Costa Rica has really got itself well organised for tourism, the service was spot on, the travel timing accurate ( although some of the roads were really poor, pot holed). Hotels and activities are really geared for tourists and they made us feel welcome.
Costa Rica
Inquire
9 days · Arenal, Tamarindo
Friends
Rainforests, waterfalls, and beaches are waiting for you and your besties. Make your way through villas and rental homes to explore Costa Rica's outdoor and nightlife adventures.
Costa Rica
From $1,721 per person
15 days · San Jose, Puerto Viejo de Limon, Arenal, Monteverde +1
Couple
Costa Rica is a beautiful country full of beautiful people. When talking about Costa Rica with my mom/travel partner, she said "Is that someplace people go?". After our first day there all her worries were alleviated by all of the wonderful and helpful people we met.
Costa Rica
From $1,037 per person
11 days · Arenal, Uvita
Family
We were very impressed with Costa Rica's sustainability and emphasis on being environmentally conscious.
Costa Rica