White Water Rafting Upper Naranjo River (Chorro section, Dec. 15th – May 15th)

If you’re craving an adventure that combines exhilarating rapids, beautiful scenery, and the comfort of well-organized logistics, the White Water Rafting on the Upper Naranjo River offers a compelling option. Based in Quepos, Costa Rica, this tour, costing around $105 per person, lasts about 4 hours and includes hotel pickup and drop-off. It’s geared toward travelers who want a thrilling but safe experience, perfect for families, groups of friends, or solo thrill-seekers eager to challenge themselves on Class III and III+ rapids.

Two things we love: First, the personalized nature of the trip—most reviews highlight how guides like Mel, Landon, and Damien make everyone feel safe and well-informed. Second, the scenic canyon and river views, with high rock walls and pristine waters, make this more than just a thrill ride—it’s a visual feast.

A potential consideration: The tour runs only between Dec. 15th and April 15th, so if you’re visiting during the rainy season or outside these months, you’ll need to look elsewhere. Also, the tour is limited to 15 participants, which is fantastic for intimacy but requires booking in advance—on average, travelers book 26 days ahead.

This adventure is perfect for adventurers of all ages (minimum age is 10), especially those who love active experiences with expert guides. If you’re a family with teens or a solo traveler wanting a taste of Costa Rica’s wild side, this trip is worth considering.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Guides like Mel and Damien are praised for their safety-conscious attitude and local knowledge.
• Stunning Scenery: The river cuts through a beautiful mini canyon with high rock walls, making for a memorable backdrop.
• Thrilling Rapids: Class III and III+ rapids guarantee fun and excitement for a wide range of skill levels.
• All-Inclusive Comfort: Hotel pickup and drop-off simplify logistics, so you can focus on the adventure.
• Family Friendly: Minimum age is 10, making it suitable for families with older children or teenagers.
• Limited Group Size: Only 15 travelers per trip, ensuring personalized attention and a more intimate experience.

The Experience in Detail

Transportation and Meeting Points

The tour begins in Quepos, with an easy 30-minute drive to the river. Most travelers appreciate the hotel pickup, which removes the hassle of arranging transportation. The starting point is accessible for those using public transportation, although most prefer the comfort of the provided transfer. After the adventure, you’ll be returned comfortably to your hotel, which adds to the relaxed feel of this adventure.

The Itinerary

Once at the river, you’ll meet your guides—likely Mel, Landon, or Damien—whose enthusiasm and professionalism set the tone. The initial stretch involves gearing up with life jackets and helmets. The guides are attentive, ensuring safety while keeping the mood fun and energetic.

The main event is navigating the “Chorro” section, a stretch famous for its Class III and III+ rapids. The river twists through a small canyon, with high rock walls on either side, providing a stunning natural corridor. The water is fast but manageable, making it ideal for those new to white-water rafting but still seeking adrenaline.

What Makes This Trip Special?

One of the most praised aspects is the guides’ expertise. Multiple reviews mention how guides like Mel, Landon, and Damien are knowledgeable, personable, and passionate about Costa Rica. They work hard to ensure everyone’s safety, explaining what to expect and giving encouragement before tackling each rapid.

Travelers consistently mention the personalized experience—some trips are just a family or small group, which enhances the feeling of safety and camaraderie. For instance, one reviewer noted, “It was very personal…our guides were amazing, and we could tell how proud they were of their country.”

The scenery is another highlight. The canyon’s high rock walls and lush surroundings create a dramatic atmosphere. Many describe the river as pristine, with clear water and shaded sections that help keep everyone comfortable on hot days.

The Thrill Level

The rapids are described as “gnarly,” “fun,” and “super exciting”. Several reviewers, including those with prior rafting experience, say the Class III+ rapids are challenging enough to get your adrenaline going without feeling unsafe. For families with older children, or travelers seeking a safe adrenaline rush, this tour hits the sweet spot.

A notable quote from reviews: “This is way better than a boring safari tour! The rapids are a real ride—even my husband was impressed.”

Safety and Group Size

Because safety is a primary concern, the tour limits participants to 15 people. The guides’ professionalism is evident—they double as safety kayakers and photographers. One reviewer appreciated this, mentioning, “The safety kayaker doubles as a professional photographer, and we received tons of pictures at the end.”

The life jackets fit chest sizes up to 52 inches, making gear accessible to most adults. The minimum age of 10 ensures a level of maturity and safety awareness, but younger kids or those with health issues should check with the operator directly.

Additional Activities and Options

For those wanting extra adventure, some guides offer the option to cliff jump—a popular and exhilarating addition for thrill-seekers. While not everyone takes the plunge, it’s a highlight for many.

Cost and Value

At $105.27, the tour offers good value considering the inclusiveness—hotel pickup, professional guides, safety gear, and photos. Reviewers consistently praise the quality of guides and the beautiful scenery, making the price worth it for most travelers looking for a memorable adventure.

Weather and Seasonality

This tour is available from December 15th to April 15th, which corresponds with the dry season in Costa Rica. The water levels are lower, making rapids more predictable and the experience safer. If you’re visiting outside these dates, you might find the water levels less suitable or the tour unavailable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This rafting trip is best suited for adventurous families with teens, solo travelers, or small groups looking for an exciting outdoor activity. The small group size and personalized guidance ensure a safe, fun, and intimate experience. If you’re after a scenic nature trip with a splash of adrenaline, this tour hits the mark.

Those who value professional guides and safety will find peace of mind, while those craving thrilling rapids will be rewarded with some of the best Class III and III+ water in Costa Rica.

The Sum Up

For travelers seeking a combination of adventure, safety, and stunning scenery, the White Water Rafting on the Upper Naranjo River offers a compelling experience. It’s well-organized, with attentive guides like Mel, Landon, and Damien, who prioritize your safety while making sure you have a good time. The river’s natural beauty and the thrill of navigating challenging rapids make this trip a highlight for many visitors.

Whether you’re a family with teens, a solo traveler eager to try white-water rafting, or a couple looking to add a splash of adventure to your trip, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s an activity that balances exhilaration with professionalism, making it a memorable part of your Costa Rican holiday.

FAQ

Is hotel pickup included?
Yes, hotel pickup and drop-off are included, which makes logistics much easier and more comfortable.

What is the minimum age for this tour?
The minimum age is 10, making it suitable for older children and teenagers.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts approximately 4 hours, including transportation, gear-up, the rafting itself, and return.

Are the rapids suitable for beginners?
Yes, the rapids are classified as Class III and III+, which are fun for beginners but still offer enough excitement for those with some rafting experience.

What should I bring?
Bring extra bottled water, sunblock, water shoes or sneakers (no flip-flops), sunglasses with straps, swimwear, towel, a change of clothes, some cash, and your camera.

What happens if the weather is bad?
The tour requires good weather. If canceled due to poor conditions, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

This white-water rafting trip on the Upper Naranjo River offers an exciting, well-organized, and scenic experience for anyone wanting a genuine taste of Costa Rica’s adventurous spirit. Book early, arrive prepared, and get ready for an adventure that you’ll remember long after the rapids have settled.