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.
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.
Explore DestinationSarapiqui 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 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 DestinationRio 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.
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.
The Perfect Getaway for Two
This romantic getaway is anything but cliche! Explore the jungles of Arenal and Monteverde, and the beaches of Playa Conchal and Playa Flamingo on this sun soaked adventure.
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.
An Adventure-Packed Family Reunion
Costa Rica is a great country, everyone is willing to help you.
Caribbean, Mountains, & Pacific Beaches
I have already recommended Anywhere.com to others. Both the trip planning and the trip itself was a pleasant experience. I appreciated the ability to customize the trip to our desires, and for the ability to contact and get Anywhere's assistance when things didn't go as planned.
The Most Memorable Honeymoon Ever
Our first but definitely not last time in Costa Rica. We loved all the areas, people, activities, food, everything. Been gushing about our trip to our family and friends since we got back.
The Ultimate Pura Vida Party
Costa Rica is an unforgettable paradise. 5% of the world's total bio diversity. We can't wait to go back and we'll definitely be booking our next adventures through Anywhere Costa and their networks of amazing companies, guides etc that they work with. Book with them and you'll be so happy that you did.
Costa Rica 101: A Solo Adventure
You don’t have to travel with anyone to see the world — think of all the people you’ll meet along the way. Treat yourself to an epic solo adventure through Costa Rica.
Our Best Adventure Yet
An adventure awaits you, and who better to share it with than your best friends? Volcanoes, rappelling, zip lining, and sailing are just a few of the activities you’ll all enjoy.
A Mother & Son Coast to Coast Road Trip
One suggestion would be to let people know the amount of time to drive from hotel to hotel. If I would have known, I would have stayed longer in fewer hotels.
All-In-One Magical Family Vacation
Best trip ever! Costa Rica is absolutely beautiful and magical. All the drivers were waiting and all the accommodations arranged — Anywhere took care of every detail so we don’t have to stress.
Pura Vida Friendcation
Using anywhere to book our trip was the best decision we made! Everything was catered to us and taken care of. The easiest adventure I've been on. Absolutely incredible
A Delightful Adventure for Two
Costa Rica continues to become a more expensive destination, but it is well worth it. An absolutely beautiful country with wonderful people.
We Returned Refreshed
Costa Rica is a safe and eco-friendly travel destination. Booking a trip with Anywhere doesn’t get any easier than this — they'll accommodate you whether you want to pack your bags for adventure or hang out on the beach.
Senior Couple's Self Driving Adventure
We are very pleased with our trip. The people we talked to were intelligent and happy to be living in Costa Rica. The food was SO good and fresh. We bought some Lizano sauce to bring home.
A Magical Adventure for Two
We visited the Arenal and the Tamarindo areas. Tourism appears to be the only industry that we saw. It is obvious that Costa Rica needs tourism to provide for its growth and environmental efforts. It is refreshing to have seen such little development in those areas. Our lower rating for "returning in the future" is because we typicall do not repeat vacations destinations.
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.
Tarcoles 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.
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.
