Arenal Rafting - Rio Sarapiqui Class III (Afternoon Tour)
Run the afternoon Class III rapids of the Sarapiquí on this Arenal rafting tour — a half-day La Fortuna river run perfect for first-timers.
The Arenal rafting Rio Sarapiqui Class III afternoon tour is a punchy, scenic whitewater trip on one of Costa Rica's most beautiful tropical rivers. This Arenal rafting Rio Sarapiqui Class III tour delivers continuous Class III rapids, lush primary-rainforest canyons, and reliably warm water — perfect for travelers who want more adrenaline than the Balsa but still want a guided beginner-friendly trip.
You'll meet your certified bilingual guide at the put-in, get safety and paddling briefings, and launch into a 2–2.5 hour run with named rapids like "Terminator," "Volcano," and "Doll's Eye." Between rapids the river slows to a glassy float through narrow canyon walls draped in vines, where you can swim in calm pools and watch white-collared swifts dart along the cliffs.
The Arenal rafting Rio Sarapiqui Class III afternoon tour ends with lunch at a riverside restaurant — typically a Costa Rican buffet with chicken, rice, beans, plantains, and tropical fruit — followed by round-trip transport back to La Fortuna. Wildlife is abundant: kingfishers, herons, toucans in the canopy, and the occasional river otter or basilisk.
- 2–2.5 hours of continuous Class III rapids
- Named rapids: Terminator, Volcano, Doll's Eye
- Certified bilingual rafting guide
- Calm swim pools between rapids
- Lunch at a riverside restaurant included
- Wildlife: kingfishers, toucans, herons, otters
- Round-trip transport from La Fortuna
The Arenal rafting Rio Sarapiqui Class III tour is suitable for first-timers age 13+ with reasonable fitness. Wear a swimsuit and quick-dry clothing, bring water shoes or strap sandals, and pack a dry bag for any electronics.
Reserve your Arenal rafting Rio Sarapiqui Class III tour on Toorizta. Afternoon slots are limited — lock in your raft seat online in under two minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is the tour?About 6 hours including transport and lunch.
How long is the rafting?Roughly 2 to 2.5 hours.
What's the difficulty?Class III — moderate punch, beginner-friendly with guide.
What's the minimum age?13 years old.
Is hotel pickup included?Yes, within La Fortuna.
Is lunch included?Yes — buffet at a riverside restaurant.
Do I need experience?No — guides handle all critical paddling.
What should I wear?Swimsuit and quick-dry clothing.
Is it safe?Yes — certified guides and premium gear.
Can I bring a GoPro?Yes, with secure helmet or chest mount.
What if it rains?Tours run rain or shine.
What's the cancellation policy?Free cancellation up to 24 hours before tour.
Highlights
- 2.5 hours of Class III rapids on the Rio Sarapiqui
- Named rapids: Terminator, Volcano, Doll's Eye
- Certified bilingual guide
- Calm swim pools between rapids
- Riverside lunch buffet included
- Hotel pickup within La Fortuna
- Year-round operation
What's included
Round-trip transport from La Fortuna Certified bilingual guide Raft, paddle, helmet, life vest Lunch buffet at riverside restaurant Fresh fruit and water
What to bring
Swimsuit and quick-dry clothing Water shoes or strap sandals Dry bag for phone Change of dry clothes Reef-safe sunscreen Light rain layer
What's not included
Gratuities Waterproof camera rental Alcoholic drinks Photography package Travel insurance
Cancellation policy
Free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. Within 24 hours, no refund. Minimum age 12; must be comfortable swimming. Not advised in pregnancy. Wear swimsuit, quick-dry shorts, water shoes. Bring towel, dry change. Helmets, vests, paddles, snack, transport included. Reschedules for flood or storm warnings only.