From Arenal, this trip ties in nicely with the lush lowlands of the northeastern region of Sarapiquí. Primary tropical rainforests and rich second-growth habitats are found in this region, which borders Braulio Carrillo National Park. The forests of Sarapiquí provide refuge for species such as tapirs, jaguars, sloths, white-nosed coatis, white-faced capuchins and howler monkeys. Afterward, continue on to our own Pacuare River adventure, which we personally operate with care! Regarded as some of the finest white water in Latin America, the wild and untamed Pacuare River may be the ultimate wilderness experience in the tropics. The river runs swiftly and changes rapidly, making it one of Aventuras Naturales' most invigorating rafting trips.

From Arenal Volcano you will travel to Sarapiquí and the Sueño Azul Resort, an inviting lodge that rises over a lush hillside. The merging of two rivers, the Puerto Viejo and the San Rafael, create an idyllic and magical landscape. The resort's proximity to Braulio Carrillo National Park makes Sueño Azul an ideal sanctuary for nature lovers. A "palenque"-style construction harmonizes each rustic room, equipped with private bath/shower, hair dryer, ceiling fans and a terrace overlooking the lake, mountains and rivers.

Your afternoon here may be spent either horseback riding around the 500-acre Sueño Azul farm, on a guided hiking tour along nature-rich trails or on an invigorating waterfall tour (weather permitting). Stay overnight at Sueño Azul, where you may rest after the day's adventures as you take in a spectacular river scenery from your private terrace or enjoy a refreshing cocktail in the jacuzzi.

Upon a refreshing awakening, you will be transferred to the small town of Tres Equis. Here, you will embark upon a two-day Pacuare white-water rafting trip down one of the most exotic and scenic rivers in the world. Your overnight stay at the Pacuare Lodge allows you to see for yourself how a nature-friendly jungle lodge can offer first-class service and a superb dining experience!

Upon arrival to the banks of the Pacuare River, our experienced guides will brief you on safety measures. The Pacuare provides one of the most invigorating and intense rafting trips available anywhere in the world. Once in the water, you'll experience the exhilaration of riding the waves down this magnificent river, which courses through a tropical wilderness of dense vegetation and steep gorges that rise majestically above its banks. Dozens of species of mammals and birds abound in this tropical paradise.

Modern wooden bungalows with palm-thatched roofs have been carefully designed to blend into the forest. The bungalows are nestled beneath giant trees that have stood guard over this forest for eons. As twilight descends, our upstairs bar and game area is the perfect spot to enjoy a cocktail and friendly company. Then come down and enjoy a decadent dinner served with a mouthwatering homemade dessert. When you feel like calling it a day, grab a lantern and head off to your cozy bungalow, furnished with fresh linens and private bathrooms.

Morning arrives at the Pacuare Lodge with a deep stillness, as you wake to the songs of exotic tropical birds and the chattering of the rushing rapids of the river a few hundred feet away. A hearty breakfast awaits you, with freshly brewed Costa Rican coffee, French toast, eggs, fresh fruit and yogurt.

The second day of your paddling journey is filled with the challenge of the river's natural forces - a genuinely stimulating and adrenaline-filled 13-mile ride. Rafting becomes even more exciting today, as you apply the skills and experience gained the day before to navigate the rushing waters of the Pacuare River.

Your guides will stop the rafts along the journey and lead you up paths and side streams that open onto pristine waterfalls and natural water slides. Here you can swim, splash, and live it up! A well-deserved picnic lunch will be served along the river. The day ends with the triumph of having conquered one of the most famous rivers in the world. At river take-out, you may change into dry clothes in our private restroom facilities before boarding a comfortable minivan that will take you back to San José in time for dinner. Dinner is on your own as you bid farewell to a delightful adventure, overnights accommodations at the Hotel Don Carlos or similar.

Day 7 - Departure from San José

After breakfast, transfer to the airport for your flight back home.

Above itinerary includes: One-night stay at Sueño Azul Resort or similar; breakfast and nature hike; one-night stay at the Pacuare Lodge, two days of rafting, all meals included.

Car Rental: The day after your arrival, your rental car will be delivered at your hotel in San José. You will drive to Monteverde and continue on to Arenal and Sarapiquí. On Day 5, you will return your rental car at the Sueño Azul Resort. Aventuras Naturales will transfer you back to San José in a comfortable minivan.

Private Tour: The day after your arrival, a driver and a bilingual naturalist guide will pick you up at your hotel. Your guide will remain with you during the drive from San José to Monteverde, from Monteverde to Arenal and from Arenal to Sarapiquí. Once you reach Sarapiquí, you will have specialized tour guides with you throughout the remaining itinerary, for any of the tours at Sueño Azul Hotel and also for the two-day Pacuare River trip. Aventuras Naturales will provide the Sarapiquí to Pacuare and Pacuare to San José transfers in a comfortable minivan.


The Basics:
Monteverde Cloud Forest and Arenal Volcano
(4 days)

Option #2:
Explore Sarapiquí and Tortuguero
(4 days)

Option #3:
Explore Corcovado
(5 days)

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