Available languages
5 hours
Mobile ticket
The Balsa River is dam-controlled and is renowned for its relatively continuous Class 2 and 3 rapids, providing an exciting yet safe adventure for all skill levels. Most rapids are found in the first hour of the trip. These rapids offer excitement and safety, ensuring a memorable journey for beginners and experienced rafters. As you travel down the river, you'll be surrounded by the captivating beauty of Costa Rica's lush rainforests, pristine waterfalls, and a rich tapestry of exotic flora. You'll want to keep your eyes peeled for the abundance of wildlife that calls this area home. Bird enthusiasts will delight in the toucans, kingfishers, and herons as they dart and soar along the riverbanks. Howler monkeys might greet you with their distinctive calls from the treetops, and you might even be lucky enough to spot the elusive, slow-moving sloth hanging lazily from the branches overhead.
Wheelchair accessible
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Minimum Ages is 8 years old
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
The Balsa River is a gem of a river rafting trip, offering a fun, family-friendly experience on Class 3 rapids rich in natural beauty. Our 11 km long trip departs daily from La Fortuna. The Balsa River rafting trip is perfect for first-time rafters ages 8 to 108. Previous rafting experience is optional, and you do not have to know how to swim. Join us on the Balsa River for a day filled with fun whitewater surrounded by majestic jungles teeming with wildlife, including monkeys, sloths, and toucans. Our shuttle vehicle will pick you up from your hotel at 10:00 AM with an approximate return time of 3:00 PM. Our Balsa River trip includes a fruit stop riverside and many wildlife viewing opportunities, especially on the journey’s second half. A traditional Costa Rican lunch and beverages will be served after the trip. Our rafting trips are unmatched and are operated with our client’s safety and comfort as a priority. The Balsa River is conveniently located less than an hour’s drive from La Fortuna. If you’re seeking adventure and natural beauty, rafting the Balsa River is the perfect choice for your Costa Rica vacation.
Water Refill and Soft Drinks are available throughout your shuttles and trip
All Rafting Equipment including Lifejacket, Helmet and Paddle
Air-conditioned vehicle
Restrooms and Changing Rooms before and after the trip
Clean Dry Towel to dry off after the Trip
Typical Costa Rican Lunch served after your trip with vegetarian options
Soft Drinks are included
Select a pickup point
Pickup included
62 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Dawne5555,,Jan 29, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had the best day! Everyone was so professional. Two tour guides in the river with us and there was a 3rd person, Harold driving the van to meet us at the mid point for snacks (fruit and chips) and then meeting us at the end for lunch and ride to hotel. I felt very safe the entire time. Super fun and exciting day. Would totally recommend this tour group!!!
leylingc2026,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
“An unforgettable experience. The rafting was spectacular and the team made everything even better with their energy, professionalism and good vibe. I felt safe and at the same time enjoyed every moment of the adventure. Fully recommended.”
jimcupp312,,Jan 20, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Great experience start to finish! The guys were very attentive and safe! A small family operation specializing in smaller groups compared to the bigger competitors running lots of boats. I highly recommend them.

Bonita S,,Jan 8, 2026
- Review from Viator
Our family has done whitewater rafting before and we all agree that this is one of the best. From pick up to drop off, Christian and his team were top notch in the equipment, safety and knowledge of the river. The Balsa River was nonstop action with very little calm water. We had a blast and really appreciated all the little extras like a towel to dry off, fresh fruits and snacks and a delicious wood fire Costa Rican lunch. Pura Vida!




Sunshine487541,,Jan 6, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a fantastic time rafting with Rafting Costa Rica. Everyone was so helpful and friendly, especially Maddie our guide. We felt well cared for and had lots of fun. Very convenient hotel pickup. The lunch we had was one of the best meals of our entire trip! 5 stars, highly recommend!!!
svetlanasP3033HL,,Jan 5, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very well organized! We felt safe and secure. We had great experience and can absolutely recommend. Thank you very much
amylE5718DG,,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
By far the best whitewater rafting our family has done. Four families in our group for a total of 14 people (all ages, first-timers and veterans) and the guides made it easy, fun, and engaging for everyone. They were super friendly, incredibly skilled, and they pointed out sloths, iguanas, and more along the way (we saw more wildlife here than at Mistico Park). It was raining but the rafting was amazing anyway! A total highlight of our Costa Rica adventures. Highly recommend.
Jason G,,Jan 1, 2026
- Review from Tripadvisor
Had a really great time rafting. Guides were very experienced and knowledgeable. Family-friendly and had the benefit of not being one of the giant companies - very personalized experience.
Adventure613480,,Nov 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
This was such an awesome experience!! Thanks to Hora io and his team they made this an exiting and memorable experience!
Adventure20396255730,,Sep 25, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Perfect experience great surf proffesional and great service . Good atmosphere very tasty food and great guides thank u for all
Operated by Rafting Costa Rica