An eight-day loop from San José that combines Class III–IV rafting on the Pacuare, Arenal’s geothermal drama, La Paz waterfalls and wildlife-rich Manuel Antonio. Expect rainforest humidity, active days, and easy hotel nights.
An eight-day loop from San José that combines Class III–IV rafting on the Pacuare, Arenal’s geothermal drama, La Paz waterfalls and wildlife-rich Manuel Antonio. Expect rainforest humidity, active days, and easy hotel nights.
You step out of the plane into humid air and a green that seems to move — the rainforest around Juan Santamaría hums and the trip begins with a clear: adventure is ahead. On Day Two you’ll push off on the Pacuare River, descending roughly 19 miles of Class III–IV whitewater through a gorge where waterfalls applaud your passage and toucans wheel above.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Greenway Nature Day Tours · San José, San José
You step out of the plane into humid air and a green that seems to move — the rainforest around Juan Santamaría hums and the trip begins with a clear: adventure is ahead. On Day Two you’ll push off on the Pacuare River, descending roughly 19 miles of Class III–IV whitewater through a gorge where waterfalls applaud your passage and toucans wheel above.
This itinerary threads San José’s urban calm with Costa Rica’s volcanic backbone and Pacific biodiversity. Arenal, rising to about 1,633 m, dominates the northern lowlands with lava-formed soils and hot springs that underline the country’s tectonic story. La Paz Waterfall Gardens showcases cloud- and rain-forest species rescued in one private preserve, while Manuel Antonio (noted here at ~900 hectares) compresses mangroves, beaches and forest into easy wildlife encounters.
Culture is practical: small towns focused on eco-tourism, guides who read trails and bird calls the way others read maps, and local sodas serving hearty casados. Expect rainforest humidity, sudden downpours, and trails that move between flat coastal walks and short volcanic slopes.
Practical guidance: bring quick-dry layers, waterproof storage for electronics, and shoes that handle slick roots and riverbanks. Hydrate proactively — tropical days can strain unprepared travelers — and budget time between hubs; driving between Arenal and Manuel Antonio can take five hours. If rafting is on your list, be honest about your swimming comfort and listen to safety briefings. With basic fitness and sensible gear, this 8-day package delivers varied terrain, wildlife-rich shorelines and one of the world’s celebrated whitewater stretches.
No formal certification is required, but this trip includes Class III–IV rapids—guides give a safety briefing and basic instruction; comfortable swimming and following guide commands are important.
Deluxe transportation is included per itinerary between the listed destinations; confirm pickup points and any private transfer timing during booking.
Dry season (Dec–Feb) offers easier trails and clearer skies for spotting animals, but green season months can increase bird and amphibian activity.
The package includes breakfasts for seven days and three lunches as listed; other meals are typically on your own except where specified.
Greenway Nature Day Tours operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.



You step out of the plane into humid air and a green that seems to move — the rainforest around Juan Santamaría hums and the trip begins with a clear: adventure is ahead. On Day Two you’ll push off on the Pacuare River, descending roughly 19 miles of Class III–IV whitewater through a gorge where waterfalls applaud your passage and toucans wheel above.
You step out of the plane into humid air and a green that seems to move — the rainforest around Juan Santamaría hums and the trip begins with a clear: adventure is ahead. On Day Two you’ll push off on the Pacuare River, descending roughly 19 miles of Class III–IV whitewater through a gorge where waterfalls applaud your passage and toucans wheel above.
This itinerary threads San José’s urban calm with Costa Rica’s volcanic backbone and Pacific biodiversity. Arenal, rising to about 1,633 m, dominates the northern lowlands with lava-formed soils and hot springs that underline the country’s tectonic story. La Paz Waterfall Gardens showcases cloud- and rain-forest species rescued in one private preserve, while Manuel Antonio (noted here at ~900 hectares) compresses mangroves, beaches and forest into easy wildlife encounters.
Culture is practical: small towns focused on eco-tourism, guides who read trails and bird calls the way others read maps, and local sodas serving hearty casados. Expect rainforest humidity, sudden downpours, and trails that move between flat coastal walks and short volcanic slopes.
Practical guidance: bring quick-dry layers, waterproof storage for electronics, and shoes that handle slick roots and riverbanks. Hydrate proactively — tropical days can strain unprepared travelers — and budget time between hubs; driving between Arenal and Manuel Antonio can take five hours. If rafting is on your list, be honest about your swimming comfort and listen to safety briefings. With basic fitness and sensible gear, this 8-day package delivers varied terrain, wildlife-rich shorelines and one of the world’s celebrated whitewater stretches.