Pure Trek Canyoning & White Water Rafting in La Fortuna

Imagine combining two of Costa Rica’s most iconic rainforest adventures into a single day—rappelling down waterfalls, rock climbing, ziplining, and then navigating the lively Balsa River’s Class II-III rapids. For $190 per person, you’ll spend about 8 hours exploring remote jungle canyons and white-water rapids, all with hotel pickup, professional guides, and a delicious Costa Rican lunch included.

What we love most about this tour is how it encapsulates the diverse beauty of Costa Rica’s rainforests—on foot and from the water. The canyoning portion offers spectacular waterfalls and lush greenery, while the rafting lets you feel the rush of the river surrounded by wildlife and rainforest scenery. Plus, the guides’ professionalism and infectious enthusiasm make even the most daring moments feel safe and fun.

A key consideration is the physical demand involved. Reviewers note that this is a moderately active experience, so it’s best suited for those with a decent level of fitness. Also, since the tour is run by two different companies, there’s some bus switching involved, which can be a bit of a logistical shuffle. But overall, this adventure is a fantastic choice for those craving an authentic, adrenaline-pumping day.

Ideal for travelers who love adventure, aren’t afraid of a little physical activity, and want to see two sides of the rainforest—the waterfalls and the river—this tour is perfect for nature lovers and thrill-seekers alike.

Key Points

• Two-in-One Adventure: Combines canyoning in lush rainforests with white-water rafting on the Balsa River.
• Expert Guides: Guides are praised for making guests feel safe and providing a fun, informative experience.
• Stunning Scenery: Expect waterfalls, rainforest views, and lively river rapids.
• Full Day Experience: About 8 hours from hotel pickup to drop-off, including lunch and all activities.
• Good Value: For $190, you get two major rainforest adventures, transportation, lunch, and photos (available for purchase).
• Physical Activity Needed: Moderate fitness required; some reviews mention it can be demanding.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour begins early in the morning with hotel pickup in La Fortuna, using rugged 4WD vehicles that access remote areas typical tours might miss. The drive takes you into a beautiful rainforest canyon, setting the stage for the day’s adventures. The base camp is nestled in this lush environment, giving you a true rainforest experience from the start.

Canyoning: Rappelling, Rock Climbing & Ziplining

Once suited up, you’ll meet your guides—many reviewers highlight how friendly, outgoing, and professional they are. The canyoning segment is a highlight. Expect multiple rappels down waterfalls, some over stunning cascades, with the option to zipline over the forest canopy. The scenery is often described as breathtaking, with waterfalls flowing through green cliffs and jungle sounds all around. Pictures are usually taken by a photographer accompanying your group—many reviewers say these photos are worth buying, capturing memories of their daring descents.

One reviewer, Brianne, remarked, “Both parts of the tour were exciting and done well. The waterfalls were beautiful.” Another said, “The waterfall rappelling was great—plenty of staff helping and knowing what they’re doing.” This indicates a strong emphasis on safety, which is reassuring when you’re climbing down waterfalls or zipping across canyons.

White-Water Rafting on Balsa River

After a short transfer (~45 minutes), you’ll arrive at the Balsa River, where your guide from Jacamar Tours takes over. This section is a different company but operates seamlessly—reviewers appreciated how well the two parts coordinate, making the entire experience feel smooth and cohesive.

The white-water rafting involves Class II-III rapids, offering a balance of excitement and safety. Expect splashes, small jumps, and waves, with optional swimming in calm pools along the way. Many guests mention the opportunity to see wildlife like sloths and iguanas from the boat, adding to the rainforest atmosphere. The included snacks and drinks at a calm pool give a nice break before returning to the river.

Reviewer Rachel summed it up: “The rapids were fun and exciting but not too scary, and the lunch afterward was great.” This highlights that while the tour offers a thrill, it remains accessible to most travelers comfortable with moderate activity.

Lunch & Return

The day wraps up with a Costa Rican-style lunch at a scenic farm or restaurant, often praised for its quality and setting. Afterward, you’ll be transported back to your hotel, tired but exhilarated, with memories of waterfalls and rapids to last a lifetime.

What Travelers Say

The reviews are overwhelmingly positive, with a perfect 5-star rating from 73 travelers. Several mention how guides made them feel safe and confident, even if they were initially nervous—”The staff immediately put my mind at ease,” says one reviewer. Many highlight the stunning scenery and the adventure’s authenticity.

A recurring theme is the value for money. For $190, you get two major rainforest activities, transport, lunch, and photos—many consider it a great deal for a full day’s adventure. Others appreciated the seamless organization, despite the tour being run by two different companies, with some noting bus switches but overall smooth logistics.

Some specific comments that stand out include:
– “The waterfalls were gorgeous, and all the guides made us feel secure.”
– “The rappelling was the best part; I could’ve done it all day.”
– “The rafting was exciting, and the guides were friendly and knowledgeable.”
– “The photo package was a good price, and the pictures turned out great.”

Practical Details & Considerations

The tour departs at 7:00 am from the specified meeting point, with pickup available from selected hotels in La Fortuna. Expect a moderate physical challenge—you’ll need good mobility and some endurance, especially for the canyoning segment. Children are permitted if accompanied by an adult, making it family-friendly for active families.

Since photos are sold separately, consider whether you want to invest in capturing your moments. The tour’s logistics include some bus switching, which can be a bit of a hassle, especially if you prefer more straightforward transfers. It’s advisable to bring a change of clothes for the rafting, as you will likely get wet and don’t want to sit around in damp clothes during lunch.

The cancellation policy is flexible, offering a full refund if canceled at least 24 hours in advance, which adds peace of mind when booking.

Who Should Book This Tour?

If you’re an adventure lover looking for a full-day immersion into Costa Rica’s rainforest, this tour is a superb choice. It suits travelers with moderate fitness who enjoy both physical activity and stunning landscapes. Families with children over a suitable age and experience level will find it rewarding, especially since guides emphasize safety and fun.

The combination of waterfalls, rainforests, and river rapids makes for varied, authentic experiences that are hard to match elsewhere. Plus, those who appreciate professional guides and well-organized logistics** will feel confident throughout the day.

However, if you prefer a more relaxed, less physically demanding experience or have mobility concerns, you might find the canyoning and rafting segments a bit challenging. Still, most reviewers say the exhilarating moments outweigh the effort.

The Sum Up

This tour is a fantastic way to spend a day in La Fortuna if you’re eager for an authentic, adventure-packed immersion into Costa Rica’s rainforest. It offers a mix of thrilling waterfalls, lush scenery, and exciting rapids with guides who prioritize safety and fun. The value for money is evident, as you get two major activities, transport, lunch, and photos—all in a well-organized package.

Travelers who love active adventures, are comfortable with some physical effort, and want to see the rainforest from multiple perspectives will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those interested in nature, wildlife, and adrenaline, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to La Fortuna.

If you’re looking for a balanced, authentic, and exhilarating rainforest experience that covers waterfalls and river rapids, this tour delivers on all fronts—just bring your sense of adventure and a change of clothes.

FAQ

What is included in the tour?
The tour price covers all activities, lunch, beverages, transportation with hotel pickup and drop-off (for selected hotels), and a photographer for canyoning photos (available for purchase).

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 8 hours, beginning with pickup at 7:00 am and ending back at your hotel in La Fortuna.

Is this suitable for children?
Children must be accompanied by an adult, and the physical nature of the tour makes it best suited for those with moderate fitness levels. Specific age limits aren’t stated, but the physical demands suggest older children.

What should I wear or bring?
Wear comfortable, quick-drying clothing, and bring a change of clothes for after rafting. It’s also recommended to bring a wet bag or waterproof case for your electronics if you want photos from the canyoning part.

Are the guides experienced?
Yes, guides receive high praise for their friendliness, professionalism, and safety awareness. Many reviews specifically mention that guides make guests feel secure and confident.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour is weather-dependent, and if canceled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Can I buy photos taken during the tour?
Absolutely. Photos are sold separately at the end of the tour, often at a reasonable price considering the quality.

How physically demanding is the tour?
It’s moderately active—you should be in good health and comfortable with some physical effort, especially during canyoning and swimming in rapids.

What makes this tour stand out?
The seamless combination of remote canyoning and river rafting in one day, guided by professionals who prioritize safety, and the stunning scenery at every turn.

Whether you’re craving a thrilling rainforest adventure or a fun, active day exploring Costa Rica’s lush landscape, this canyoning and rafting combo in La Fortuna offers a memorable, well-organized experience. Prepare for some wet, wild, and wonderful moments—this tour is for those who want to really feel the rainforest’s pulse.