In the grandest canyon of the Balsa River, experience the excitement, serenity, joy and enchanting beauty of the river as it transforms this divine chasm and those who venture down it.

Balsa River Trips vs. Other Vacations

The setting and pace of a Balsa River rafting trip gives you something you don’t find in other vacations.  On a rafting trip, you’ll find the absolute escape from the hectic world around us – completely free of distractions.  You’ll eliminate the constant decisions about where to go, what to do, and where to eat each day of your vacation.  On a rafting trip, you’ll experience the pinnacle of relaxation as you drift over tranquil pools of water under the shadows of towering rock formations, the exhilaration and thrill of rolling waves and crashing whitewater, the exploration of seldom-seen natural wonders and, the peaceful moments of reflection as you gaze up at the star-studded sky, and the fresh feeling of renewal as the morning sun slowly filters through winding canyons.  All this provides an indescribable sense of belonging - a sense of oneness with yourself and those around you; a sense of adventure, reflection and renewal; and a time to hear your own heart beat.  On a Costa Rica Descents’ Balsa River Class V Trip, you will quickly discover why so many are calling this “the best vacation of their lives.

Class V
Cost: $115
Tour Departure Time: 9:00 a.m.
Trip Duration: about 7 hours

Get pumped for a challenging descent into a lush rainforest canyon that will stimulate your adrenal glands to the max. We are the only rafting company that offers the opportunity to run this exhilarating and scenic stretch of the Rio Balsa. To add to the originality of this trip we will stop in El Salto. This is natures equivalent of a water park, complete with waterfalls, pools of water and a rope swing.
Afterwards, we will proceed to the Upper Balsa, a stretch that is considered one of the most technically challenging commercially run rapids in Costa Rica. You will be accompanied by expert river guides and safety kayakers. There will be two breaks from the heart pounding rapids to refuel. The first stop will be at one of the seven dramatic waterfalls along the way, where we will enjoy natures bounty in the form of fresh fruit. The second stop will be for an authentic Costa Rican lunch. Strong physical condition and a thirst for adventure is  required. Rafters must be 18 years of age to participate in this trip.
What to bring
Simple dry clothing, such as shorts and a t-shirt, Swimsuit, Sunscreen, Shoes that will stay on your feet, sport sandals and water shoes are recommended, a change of clothing.

Tour Includes: transportation, fees, a bilingual river guide,  authentic Costa Rican lunch, fresh fruit and refreshments.

Class III & IV
Cost: $85
Tour Departure Time: 8:00 a.m.
Trip Duration: about 6 hours

The Rio Toro explodes with over fifty continuous class 3 and 4 rapids  over 9.5 miles. There are no dull moments. This river winds through  dense tropical wilderness and is fed by waters flowing from the Poas  volcano. The Rio Toro is a one hour, scenic drive from La Fortuna.  Upon arrival you will be outfitted with gear and given a safety orientation. We like to make our rafting trips the most exciting, yet  safe experiences possible. During the trip there will be one stop  along the river where you will enjoy locally grown fresh organic fruits and take a swim to recharge. There will also be another stop  for an authentic Costa Rican lunch that we will provide.
What to bring
Simple dry clothing, such as shorts and a t-shirt, Swimsuit, Sunscreen, Shoes that will stay on your feet, sport sandals and water shoes are recommended, a change of clothing.

Tour Includes: transportation, fees, a bilingual river guide,  authentic Costa Rican lunch, fresh fruit and refreshments.

Class II & III
Cost: $80
Tour Departure Time: 8:30 a.m.
Trip Duration: about 7 hours

This trip is an excellent adventure for the whole family and first  timers. The Sarapiqui River is a 1 hour and 15 minute, incredibly  scenic drive from La Fortuna to the province of Heredia. The altitude  difference offers unique and incredible wildlife viewing  opportunities. Be sure to look out for water birds, toucans, sloths  and other rainforest occupants. This trip is a great way to get wet.  The class two and three offer enough of an adrenaline kick to satisfy  your daily requirement. Parts of the river are calm enough to go for  a swim and there is also a small cliff for rafters to take a little  plunge. We will also stop twice along the trip. Once to enjoy our fresh locally grown tropical fruits and again for a delicious,  authentic Costa Rican lunch.
What to bring
Simple dry clothing, such as shorts and a t-shirt, Swimsuit, Sunscreen, Shoes that will stay on your feet, sport sandals and water shoes are recommended, a change of clothing.

Tour Includes: transportation, fees, a bilingual river guide,  authentic Costa Rican lunch, fresh fruit and refreshments.

Class II & III
Cost: $65
Tour Departure Time: 10:00 a.m.
Trip Duration: about 4.5 hours


A fun combination of whitewater thrills and areas where the water is  docile enough to jump in and go for a swim. This is perfect for a  family adventure and for beginners. Wildlife abound in this section of  the Balsa so keep an eye out for sloths, iguanas, howler monkeys and a  vast array of tropical birds. There is no better way to observe wildlife than floating down a river. However this trip is not all  about relaxation. The rolling, tumbling class 2-3 rapids will be  enough to bring laughter and excitement to the whole family. The trip  will be guided by our awesome and safe guides that could make a puddle  of mud fun. As with every trip, there will be one stop for locally  grown, organic fruits and another stop for an authentic Costa Rican  lunch.

What to bring
Simple dry clothing, such as shorts and a t-shirt, Swimsuit, Sunscreen, Shoes that will stay on your feet, sport sandals and water shoes are recommended, a change of clothing.

Tour Includes: transportation, fees, a bilingual river guide,  authentic Costa Rican lunch, fresh fruit and refreshments.