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.
In a tropical wet forest environment, the crystal water river travels along green pastures and farmland, lush vegetation of towering trees, vines and flowers, cascading mountains and the La Selva Biological Reserve, a scene that is worth at least 1,000 words. This environment is the habitat to several different species of monkeys, sloths, crocodiles, river turtles, iguanas, toucans, hummingbirds, woodpeckers and much more.
The fantastic setting also makes the Sarapiqui a great river for white water rafting. The moderate class III rapids are ideal for novices and families. A rafting trip on this river is a perfect balance of excitement and relaxation, as there is plenty of opportunity for wildlife viewing on the calm stretches between rapids.
Sarapiqui River itineraries from local insiders
Explore hand-picked Sarapiqui River itineraries designed by local insiders who know every hidden corner. Each trip is completely flexible, customized to your pace, travel style, and budget.
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.
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.
An Adventure Family Vacation to Remember
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.
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.
A Family Adventure—Volcanoes to Beaches
Great. What a beautiful country. Very impressive on how clean it is and the way of life.
The Vacation with EVERYTHING
Friendly hotels with volcanic views; snorkeling; geothermal hot springs; yoga, and zip lining through rainforests. Welcome to the most exciting vacation you and your family have ever been on.
Rainforest and Caribbean Explorer
Costa Rica is amazing! We both tried rafting for the first time and had such a wonderful time. The chocolate was the best I've ever had. This was the tropical getaway we needed!
Adventurous Vacation for One
While at the hotels did do sustainable practices as much as possible they forgot some very important things that we made sure to mention to them. For example, they had recycle trash bin's etc. but they did not have closing lids on them so raccoons and other animals could go into the trash and search for food and eat something that could potentially hurt them or poison them. All trash cans must have lids on them, especially in the public restrooms since you cannot flush toilet paper down the toilet. That was very unsanitary. Most importantly protect the wildlife.
Driving to Volcanos, Beaches & Rivers
Bridgette & Emmett explored Costa Rica’s diverse landscapes in a 2 week‑long adventure. They trekked Poás Volcano’s misty cloud forest, rode horseback through volcanic highlands, rafted the Sarapiquí River, and relaxed in various Pacific coast beaches. Guides shared local stories, and the mix of adrenaline and beach time left Bridgette & Emmett with appreciation for Costa Rica’s vibrant ecosystems and warm hospitality.
A Sun-Filled Tropical Vacation for Four
We planned this tropical getaway with our friends, and Tracy from Anywhere helped us find the best accommodations to stay at. From rainforests to beaches, Costa Rica has so much beautiful scenery to offer!
An Adventure-Packed Family Reunion
Costa Rica is a great country, everyone is willing to help you.
Experiences in Sarapiqui River
Explore hand-picked Sarapiqui River tours and experiences led by local insiders, from wildlife encounters to cultural deep-dives.
Whitewater Rafting Class II - III at Sarapiqui River PM Tour
Rafting Sarapiqui River Class III-IV
Whitewater Rafting Class II - III at Sarapiqui River AM Tour
Whitewater Rafting Class III - IV at Sarapiqui River
Rafting Class II-III Sarapiqui
One Day Adventure Combo
Sarapiqui River Safari
Where to stay in Sarapiqui River
From boutique lodges to luxury resorts, every Sarapiqui River accommodation is hand-picked by our local insiders for location, comfort, and character.
Selva Verde Lodge and Rainforest Reserve
The Selva Verde Lodge is nestled in the lowland tropical rainforest of Costa Rica, in Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, along the Sarapiqui River. The lodge is known as being the pioneer of the eco-tourism movement in Costa Rica. This is a magical haven for bird watchers, nature enthusiasts, and hikers desiring to experience the rainforest. Located near the lodge is the town of Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui, where guests will find a number of services and facilities, including bars and restaurants.
Chilamate Rain Forest Eco Retreat
Chilamate Rainforest Eco Retreat is an environmentally conscious and family run bed and breakfast in Sarapiqui of the Northern Lowlands region. The retreat, embedded in Chilamate rainforest, is committed to conservation and providing comfortable lodging for guests, who can explore the private jungle.
La Quinta Country Inn
La Quinta Country Inn is located in the northeastern portion of Cost Rica, in Sarapiqui, just 60 miles from San Jose. Surrounded by tropical rainforest, private reserves and La Selva Biological station, this area caters to eco-tourists, thrill seekers looking to river raft down the Sarapiqui River, or couples seeking a peaceful stay in paradise. These are also prime grounds for birders. The hotel is recognized by the National Accreditation commission for sustainable tourism.
Cuculmeca Tent Camp
Cuculmeca Tent Camp Adventures can be found just 90 minutes north of San Jose, in the Sarapiqui valley. This valley is known throughout Costa Rica for its amazing, rich biodiversity. In the region, you'll find a number of national parks, nature reserves and packs of the endangered Green Macaw.
Hotel El Bambu
Located at the heart of Puerto Viejo in Sarapiqui, neighbors of the exuberant tropical rain forest, Hotel El Bambu offers comfortable and pleasant accommodations on the North Caribbean Coast. The ideal location of the hotel allows guests to access the Tortuguero National Park and the Sarapiqui River offering a wealth of wildlife and flora, a perfect place for those nature buffs.
The Peace Lodge at La Paz Waterfall
The unique and magical Peace lodge is located on the grounds of the La Paz Waterfall Gardens in Heredia. In possibly one of the finest natural masterpieces, guests can expect to find themselves in a magical world, surrounded by cascading waterfalls and pristine rainforests.
Maquenque Lodge & Tree Houses
A new, 150-acre (60-hectare) reserve located just north of Boca Tapada, San Carlos is the site for the Maquenque Lodge. Set within the Northern Lowlands Region of Costa Rica, the lodge is near several national parks, biological stations, and wildlife refuges.
Poas Volcano Lodge
The Poas Volcano Lodge is situated in Costa Rica’s Central Valley outside the capital city of San José. Nestled between the Poás and Barva volcanoes at an elevation of 6,000 ft (1,900 m), this rural area of Costa Rica is stunningly beautiful and still within range of a major population center.
El Silencio Lodge & Spa
Set in Costa Rica's central volcanic region, El Silencio Lodge and Spa will be a sanctuary for soft adventure and inspired wellness. Close to the hotel lies the town of Sarchi home to the Costa Rican oxcart also bordering the Northwest area of the Poas Volcano offering some of the most astounding scenery in Cost Rica.
Bosque de Paz Lodge
Bosque de Paz is set within a 2,470-acre (1,000-ha) private reserve in Bajos del Toro, Costa Rica. This hotel is perfect for outdoorsy types and travelers who want a quiet, nature-driven experience in Costa Rica.
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.
