Rafting Costa Rica: Small Group Class III Rafting on Balsa River
Overview
Available languages
6 hours
Mobile ticket
At Calypso Adventures, we do things differently. We’re proud to be the only Black woman-owned and female-led water sports tour company in La Fortuna. We focus on quality over quantity, offering small-group experiences rooted in local knowledge, personal passion, and deep respect for Costa Rica’s natural beauty and culture. We avoid the crowds, take the longest and most scenic trails, and create meaningful connections—between you, the land, and its people. With us, you don’t just visit; you experience Costa Rica through the eyes of those who call it home.
Additional Info
Specialized infant seats are available
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Public transportation options are available nearby
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
What To Expect
Embark on a Roaring Adventure: Whitewater Thrills for the Whole Crew! Get set for an exhilarating journey that caters to the entire family and those taking their first plunge into the world of whitewater excitement! Your day begins with a lively pickup from your lodging, setting the tone for an adventure-packed day. As we delve into the jungle, keep your eyes peeled for adorable sloths hanging out in their natural playground – just a sneak peek of the thrills ahead! Our adrenaline-charged drive through La Fortuna turns the journey into an interactive experience, with our expert guide sharing fascinating tales about the lush plantations lining the route. Anticipation builds as we reach the starting point, where the crew gets kitted out with the essentials: lifejackets, paddles, and helmets. It's time to gear up because we're about to embark on a wild 10-kilometer journey through rapids. Tailored for safety and enjoyment, this whitewater extravaganza ensures smiles, laughter, and unforgettable moments for kids and beginners alike. Feel the rush of the river, share the joy with your fellow adventurers, and create memories that'll be talked about for years to come.
What‘s Included
Beer
Bottled water
Life jacket, paddle, helmet
Pinneapple
Liability insurance
All Fees and Taxes
Air-conditioned vehicle
Typical Costa Rican dish, vegeterian option is available
Photos
Pickup points
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Rafting Costa Rica: Small Group Class III Rafting on Balsa River
Pickup included
Reviews
17 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Outstanding family rafting experience
arunka007,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We were looking for Class-3 rafting in La Fortuna, that accommodates 10 year old kid and ended up picking Calypso Adventures. Our experience was beyond fantastic to say the least. Our guides met us at the pickup point right on time, were very pleasant and answered all our questions and drove us to the starting point. Along the way they took the time to show us a couple of sloths and explained various aspects of Costa Rican life along the way. The rating itself was extremely enjoyable and fun for everyone, including the 3 kids in our group. Bethshiva and Werner took excellent care of us and ensured we all felt safe throughout the adventure. They took us to a local Costa Rican restaurant after the rafting and we had the best meal of our trip at that place. The service there was excellent as well. Overall our families had a great time and enjoyed this a lot more that we thought we would because of how Bethshiva and the team took care of us. We would highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a personalized service and the best rafting experience at La Fortuna.
Must-do when in Arenal
danieldC5564XW,,Dec 22, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00We booked through Calypso and everything went smooth. We had a great time and doing this in Arenal is highly recommended. You get to see little towns along the way, meet people, have fun rafting and I also enjoyed the scenery as well went down the river.
So much fun!
395kaceys,,May 28, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This was such a fun experience! Everyone was very friendly and knowledgeable. Our guide Mano showed us lots of wildlife which was great and he gave us some recommendations for things to do. We loved talking with him. We also enjoyed listening to Orlando on the bus ride there. Overall it was a 10 out of 10!
Awesome rafting trip with the best company
649kathariner,,Mar 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This company is incredible. We had a small group trip in two boats down Rio Balsa on a beautiful day. The owner, Bethshiva, and our guides Antonio and Werner were amazing, extremely fun, knowledgeable, and friendly. They made sure everyone was safe, having fun, seeing animals, and even gave us tips for the rest of our trip. The small group experience made it extra special. We felt like friends by the end of the day. Provided delicious fruit and food for us during and after the ride. Werner was especially good at spotting perezosos! Will absolutely recommend them and use them again when we come back! Also love that this is woman owned!
Rafting in La Fortuna!
rgE4817RC,,Mar 27, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Antonio was knowledgable about the area and gave us some tips on where to eat and shop! The fruit was bought on the way there and they gave us time to look around. Our guide Werner was very experienced and comfortable during our excursion which I appreciated as I’ve never been rafting before! If they spotted animals they stopped the raft so we could observe. He also gave us a couple of chances to jump in the river and swim around at safe spots which was fun!
Great Experience with Great Guide
Nancy F,,Feb 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00This fun and easy river raft excursion was a great way to see some of beautiful Costa Rica, its plants and wildlife. Beth is an amazing guide. She is friendly, experienced and very knowledgeable about all there is to see along the river and Costa Rica's volcanoes and rain forest. Highly recommend any of Calypso excursions
BEST RAFTING IN FORTUNE
cristalschillaci,,Jan 20, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Super recommended, the guides are geniuses who take care of you and keep you safe in all the activity. Our guide was the best, made the experience something very fun. Don't hesitate to hire. Greetings
Awesome, honest people!
E8880VErebeccar,,Jan 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Though we were unable to attend our event, the staff and Bethshiva were extremely kind and accommodating given our circumstances. We will definitely be back and will continue to recommend this tour on the basis of their wonderful customer service!
Incredible experience
dakotaa885,,Jan 19, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Rafting in Costa Rica with this group was amazing! The guides were friendly and knowledgeable, showing us sloths, iguanas, and more. They gave us fruit along the way and We were given a tour of their garden and served delicious local food! Unforgettable experience!
Fantastic, memorable and fun!
Sightseer65829449794,,Jul 27, 2024
- Review from Tripadvisor
5.00Our family of 4 had the best time! Our kids (11 and 13) loved the experience. Mario and Carlos were so friendly and experienced on the river. Mario provided excellent direction as we made our way through this beautiful and fun experience. Such an incredible way to spend the day and a memorable one. Communication with the company was great, pickup was on time, lunch was delicious and they included pictures for us at the end!
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Operated by Calypso Adventures