Top 5 Rivers of Costa Rica

by Lara Hardin
(Costa Rica)

Considered one of the most popular tourist attractions in the world, Costa Rica offers its visitors a feast for the senses. A plethora of natural and man-made wonders can be found throughout the country's 20 thousand square miles and thousands of tourists flock to the small Central American country each year.

From soaking in the sun on the beaches to hiking through the rainforests, Costa Rica has a variety of ways to take your breath away. The country also offers several of the world?s best whitewater rafting and kayaking runs. With rivers ranging from Class I to Class V rapids, everyone (regardless of skill and experience level) can enjoy a kayaking or rafting adventure while taking in the country's stunning natural vistas and wildlife.

Although the Rio Reventazon and the Rio Pacuare are considered the crown jewels of Costa Rica's whitewater river runs, there are plenty of other rivers to take a ride down as well. Here are the top five rivers of Costa Rica:

1. Rio Reventazon

Widely considered Costa Rica's most popular river, the Rio Reventazon consist of four sections of varying difficulty ranging from Class III to Class V rapids. Due to its excellent location near San Jose, accessing all four of the river's sections is extraordinarily easy and many travel companies offer day trip packages including rafting adventures in the area.

2. Rio Pacuare

Slightly less popular than the Rio Reventazon, due to difficulty of access, is the Rio Pacuare. Nevertheless, it remains popular for its heart-stopping beauty and challenging rapids. Considered an ideal "tropical river," the Rio Pacuare consist of two main sections, Bajo Pacuare- San Martin and San Martin- Siquirres, which range from Class III to Class V rapids and wind through exotic wildlife filled cayons. Rafting the Pacuare is also one of the most popular ways to see Huacas Falls, one of Costa Rica's most famous waterfalls.

3. Rio Sarapiqui

This river has a little something for everyone, as its waters vary from gentle waves to rushing rapids. While the river itself is fascinating in the diversity of its ferocity, the Rio Sarapiqui is known as much for the incredible scenery and wildlife that surrounds it as the rapids themselves.

4. Rio Naranjo

With Class III rapids through most of the river's sections, the Rio Naranjo is perfect for travelers seeking an angular and challenging run. Flowing through mountains, farmlands, and gorges, Rio Naranjo provides the opportunity to push yourself hard for the first part of the course, then relax and do a little nature watching as the waters calm near the end of the run.

5. Rio Corobici

This river is a bit gentler than most of the others mentioned here, making it one of the most popular outings for families or those looking for a more relaxed rafting experience. This is a nature watcher's paradise, as monkeys, iguanas, and a variety of birds can often be spotted lounging in the surrounding jungle.

Costa Rica's rivers are a must-experience attraction. Locals and tourist alike have raved about Costa Rica's rivers. If you haven't yet experienced them, you are missing out. While these five rivers are sure to thrill you, there are many others that are equally worthy of exploration. Get out and get wet!

Lara Hardin moved to Costa Rica in 2009 and since then became a full-time writer for the website sunsetscostarica.com. She enjoys exploring the tropical rainforest and white sandy beaches of the country.