Rivers of Costa Rica
Costa RicaDuring the course of a single year many zones in Costa Rica receive between 150-200 inches of rain which keeps everything lush and green but also swells many river valleys as the water rushes throughout the country out to sea. With so much water Costa Rica has opted to use some rivers for hydro-electric projects which provides 80% of the Costa Ricas energy needs. In addition to a renewable energy source there are dozens of a river activities in Costa Rica ranging from action packed rafting adventures to slow paced wildlife observation floats.
Costa Rica Highlights
A curated look at the best Costa Rica has to offer. These are the destinations that consistently stand out — places with real character, great experiences, and something worth going out of your way for.
Sarapiqui River
Originating from clear mountain streams, the Sarapiqui River runs from the Central Mountain Range just north of San Jose to the San Marcos River which runs along the shared border between Costa Rica and Nicaragua. The river is considered a national monument because of the vital service it provided in transporting arms, goods and soldiers in the 1856 war against the filibusters.
Explore DestinationPenas 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.
Explore DestinationPacuare River
The Pacuare River, whose headwaters begin on the Atlantic slope in the Talamanca mountain range, runs about 68 miles (108 km) until reaching the Caribbean Sea on Costa Rica's central coast. This is the quintessential tropical river, with stunning scenery and abounding wildlife.
Explore DestinationSavegre River
Beginning in the rainforest clad Talamanca Mountain Range between Cerro de los Muertos and Chirripo, the Savegre River flows south until reaching an estuary in the Manuel Antonio National Park, on the central Pacific coast of Costa Rica.
Explore DestinationTarcoles River
The Tárcoles River winds through Costa Rica's Central Pacific region before emptying into the Pacific Ocean. Its watershed provides a crucial habitat for a number of species (the most notable of which is the American crocodile), and although the river is somewhat polluted, it is significant for the country's residents, as nearly 60% of Costa Rica's total population lives along its basins.
Explore DestinationFeatured Costa Rica Trips
Browse our handpicked selection of Costa Rica itineraries, each crafted by local experts who know the country inside out. Whether you're after adventure, relaxation, or cultural immersion, we have a trip tailored for you.
Big Multi Family Group Adventure
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican adventure that juxtaposes bustling urban energy with lush, untouched rainforests, delivering a dynamic escape from everyday routine. From San José’s lively streets you’ll head to Monteverde’s cloud‑forest canopy for sky tram rides and hikes, then dive into Rio Celeste’s turquoise waters and trek El Silencio’s volcanic paths. Friendly locals and knowledgeable guides will immerse you in coffee farms, rainforest sounds, and volcanic vistas, leaving you with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s spirited hospitality and natural wonder.
Sisters Adventure Together
Incredible tours, hotels, and communities.
60th birthday jungle adventure
If you like the outside at all, Costa Rica is for you! It truly is a rich coast. The diversity of wildlife is mind blowing. It is spectacular.
Costa Rica Two Family Journey
Lovely, relaxing country. Lots of activities, everything from lounging to adventure and more. Friendly people, tasty food, family-friendly.
Matt and Fran’s Costa Rica holiday
Costa Rica has a diverse landscape and every area is unique and different. We easily rented a 4 wheel drive vehicle and drove from the Caribbean to the Pacific!
Family Time in Costa Rica
Michelle and her family embarked on a multi‑generational adventure in Costa Rica, where mist‑cloaked cloud forests meet surf‑kissed Pacific beaches, offering a vibrant contrast of cool heights and warm tides. Your journey weaves through Monteverde’s canopy zip lines and canyoning thrills, the turquoise Tenorio River’s Class III/IV rapids, and La Leona waterfall’s lush river tubing. Guided by local experts and supported by a comfortable van, your family will soak up Pura Vida hospitality, returning home with shared stories of soaring forests and surf‑side sunsets.
Dream Honeymoon Adventure in Costa Rica
Embark on a honeymoon that swaps city bustle for Costa Rica’s emerald rainforests and sun‑kissed beaches, where romance meets adventure in every sunrise. From Monteverde’s misty cloud forest trails to Arenal’s volcanic hot springs, then Playa Conchal’s Pacific surf and Damas Island’s mangrove kayak tours, you’ll hike, soak, and sail. Friendly local guides and vibrant community flavors will weave unforgettable memories, leaving you with a deeper connection to nature, Costa Rican warmth, and each other.
Costa Rica Off Season Adventure
We found Costa Rica to be really beautiful. I loved the flowering plants everywhere, but the wildlife is the main reason we went. We didn't see monkeys in every tree or even toucans up close, but we did see them from a distance. We also saw lots of colorful birds in the National Forests that we have never seen before.
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.
Costa Rica Family Adventure Quest
Embark on a vibrant Costa Rican family adventure that weaves together rainforest mist, volcanic fire, and Pacific surf, offering a dynamic contrast of nature’s extremes. Your journey moves from the sun‑kissed beaches of Manuel Antonio to Monteverde’s misty hanging bridges, then into Arenal’s volcano and waterfalls, ending with surf lessons in Tamarindo. Friendly local guides and coffee‑farm hosts will share traditions, flavors, and stories, leaving your family with lasting memories of Costa Rica’s warm hospitality and adventurous spirit.
Solo Exclusive Trip
An incredible country which went beyond expectations. Absolutely amazing & so many memorable experiences. The welcome from all the people & the hospitality everywhere is fantastic. I always felt safe
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!
Daughter's 12th Birthday Trip
Arenal especially was amazing - so much to do there and such a cool place to see. Overall the people were very kind - pura vita!
Deep Journey into the Heart of Costa Rica
From misty cloud forests to sun‑kissed Pacific beaches, this Costa Rican adventure weaves together vibrant wildlife, volcanic landscapes, and endless ocean horizons. You’ll trek Monteverde’s canopy bridges, soak in Arenal’s hot springs, kayak mangroves at Drake Bay, and snorkel coral reefs off Manuel Antonio. Friendly local guides and community hosts will share traditions, cuisine, and conservation stories, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Costa Rica’s pura vida spirit.
Paradise is Meant to Be Explored
Best vacation we have ever been on. Everything was planned out and went extremely smoothly. Can't say enough good things. We had an amazing time. Big thank you!!!!
More Rivers of Costa Rica
There's always more to discover in Costa Rica. From off-the-beaten-path gems to well-loved classics, these destinations are worth adding to your itinerary.
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.
Rio Celeste
The Río Celeste winds through the verdant rainforest of Tenorio Volcano National Park. You can opt to see this bright blue river on a moderately challenging 4.5-mile (7.5 km) hike. It's also possible to take a 1-mile (1.5 km) hike that goes directly to the Río Celeste Waterfall from the entrance of the park.
Naranjo River
Located just west of Rio Savegre, the Naranjo River's white water covers about 50 miles (80 km) of stunning terrain.
Corobici River
Originating in the Guanacaste mountain range in northwestern Costa Rica, the Corcobici River journeys south until reaching the estuary at the north end of the Gulf of Nicoya.
Toro River
Collecting its headwaters from the Poas Volcano, the Toro River heads straight for Costa Rica's northern border before turning east and reaching the Caribbean Sea's northeastern coast. The river runs through densely forested canyons, making for a truly spectacular setting.
Tempisque River
Originating in the foothills of the Orosi Volcano in northwest Costa Rica, the Tempisque River flows southeast until reaching the estuary on the northern end of the Nicoya Gulf. The river, stretching 86 miles (138 km), is considered to be the most important river in the Guanacaste region.
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.
