stephanie_txgirl

Everything I read talks about Pacuare and Reventazon. The problem is that we're staying in Arenal and it costs a fortune (not to mention the drive time) to get to San Jose for pick up for Pacuare/Reventazon rafting tours. Are the Pacuare and Reventazon tours so incredibly better than Sarapiqui that it would be worth our time and money?

Sarapiqui seems to be closer and more realistic. Just want to be sure we'll have fun. Neither my hubby nor I have done this before. We'll be going mid-March. Should we do Class III or IV's on Sarapiqui? I'm a little scared, but don't want to be bored either (especially since it's the dry season -- if that even matters).

Any input would be most appreciated! Also, any advice on SkyTrek Arenal vs. Arenal Paraiso Canopy Tour? Which is better?

Earthtraveler

From what I have read I'd choose Sky Trek Arenal.

dfarmer

If you have an overnight or two in or near SJ, I would highly recommend the Pacuare. The year we did it, we opted to stay in SJ for our first two nights, rafting on our first full day. Certainly one highlight of our 4 trips to CR. Also there is an overnight rafting trip that would have to be great fun.

Booked my step daughter into a tour last year that included rafting on the Sarapiqui. Her trip was in March also. The river portion she rafted had a few fun rapids, nothing too big and lots of time to float and see wildlife. Some parts of the Sarapiqui are actually a float.

Our first rafting trip in CR was on the Corobici, which turned out to actually be a float with a few ripples. Although the adrenaline rush from the rafting was missing, I certainly did enjoy the scenery, wildlife and an excellent guide.

And everything changes daily, yes the rivers are higher and more active when it rains and typically slower, easier in the dry season. Now, if we could just predict the weather on your days.

So my advice, do what is available to you and get the most out of it. Whatever you choose will be an awesome experience.

nightread

How far is Pacuare from San Jose?

If you could do a rafting trip close to Manuel Antonio would you choose that over Pacuare? Only have 1 1/2 days in San Jose and can't decide if we should raft or go see Poas...

stephanie_txgirl

Thanks for all your suggestions. Looks like we'll have to do the Sarapiqui rafting tour since it is so much closer (we'll be in Arenal, then traveling to Paradisus Playa Conchal).

I know there are many levels of rafting on the Sarapiqui. How scary are the Class IV rapids there and will they be tamer since we're going in March?