The 4 Costa Rica River Cruises That Earn Their Price

1.Puntarenas Shore Excursion: Rainforest Skywalk & Tarcoles River

★★★★★★★★★★4.5 · 120 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $125Our pick

From Puntarenas, you’ll ride in an air-conditioned minivan to Villa Lapas for a 1.5-mile rainforest walk with three hanging bridges, then cruise the Tarcoles River for crocodiles and birds. Guides such as Ronald, Alejandro, and Josue are praised for spotting wildlife and explaining Costa Rica.

“Very enjoyable trip. Great walk through the rainforest - we were not lucky enough to spot any wildlife with the exception of a very small frog lol but the bridges are an experience. Great to see the crocs on the river - plenty of birds can be seen too. Good shopping stop. The guide Ronald did a great job of looking after the group.”

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2.Puerto Viejo Sloth Jungle and River Kayaking Tour

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 112 reviews · 3 hours (approx.) · from $65Best value

Walk the forest around Punta Uva with guides such as Rob, Francisco, or Yara, spotting sloths, monkeys, birds, turtles, and plants before paddling the river toward the sea. The three-hour tour includes kayaks and fruit snacks, with groups capped at 10 people.

“The was an amazing tour with a wonderful guide. We saw lots of animals and leaned about the local plants and conservation efforts. We got lucky and we were able to observe a sloth down from the trees on the ground which was absolutely incredible! Our guide was very knowledgeable and she was also very nice and patient with us! This is a fantastic tour and we highly recommend it! Pura Vida!”

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3.La Leona Waterfall Hike and River Tubing

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 90 reviews · 4 to 5 hours (approx.) · from $90

Near Liberia, guides such as Ronnie, Brandy, Victor, and Diego lead you through river crossings, ladders, rock passages, and a rope-assisted cave swim before a lively tubing run. Plan on 4 to 5 hours, moderate fitness, wet clothes, and no included food.

“We had an amazing day at Le Loana. We did the hike into the waterfall itself followed by a tubing experience. Made for a long, amazing and well worth it day. Victor and Diego were our guides and did a great job of explaining what we were doing and the safety measures we need to be aware of. We will be back as well as recommend this to our family and friends as a must do!”

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4.Savegre River Rafting Class II-III from Manuel Antonio

★★★★★★★★★★5.0 · 80 reviews · 6 hours (approx.) · from $125

From Manuel Antonio or Quepos, you’ll ride to the Savegre River for a six-hour rafting day with safety kayaker, photographer, snacks, and a Costa Rican lunch. Guides such as Nico, Jairo, Mario, and Jonathan work well with first-timers and families, while water levels shape the rapids.

“An awesome experience even for first timer like me, the guides were very knowledgeable and helpful. Our guide Nico made it super fun.”

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