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.
More about Sarapiqui River
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.
Moments to look forward to
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.
One Day Adventure Combo
A Family Adventure—Volcanoes to Beaches
Great. What a beautiful country. Very impressive on how clean it is and the way of life.
Whitewater Rafting Class II - III at Sarapiqui River PM Tour
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.
Rafting Sarapiqui River Class III-IV
An Adventure-Packed Family Reunion
Costa Rica is a great country, everyone is willing to help you.
Whitewater Rafting Class II - III at Sarapiqui River AM Tour
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!
Whitewater Rafting Class III - IV at Sarapiqui River
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.
Rafting Class II-III Sarapiqui
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!
Sarapiqui River Safari
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.
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.
