Top San Jose Water Tours

Navigate Class III-IV rapids under the guidance of an expert during this white-water rafting course down the Pacuare River from San Jose. Paddle your way through one of Costa Rica's most picturesque river gorges, looking out for native wildlife between rapid runs, on an exciting day trip ideal for thrill seekers. Hotel pickup and drop-off, equipment, and lunch are all included, so you can focus on the thrills.

Navigate the waters of Lake Gatun, an essential part of the Panama Canal, as enormous ships pass in the distance and the tropical jungle pushes through the islands that emerged after the lake's creation. In Monkey Island we will look for three species of primates: white-faced capuchin monkeys, Geoffroy's tamarins, and howler monkeys, whose powerful calls are often heard through the forest. During the tour we will also be able to find tropical birds, iguanas, crocodiles, and other animals in their natural habitat. But this experience goes far beyond observing monkeys. Your bilingual local guide will help you interpret the landscape and discover how the construction of the Canal transformed ancient valleys of the Chagres River into an extraordinary ecosystem of islands surrounded by the waters of Lake Gatun. Our small groups allow for a more personal, quiet, and close to nature experience. Nature, history, and engineering meet in one place: the Panama Canal.

The lush rainforest and white-sand beaches of Isla Tortuga are part of the Islas Negritos Biological Reserve, and are located along the eastern coast of the Nicoya Peninsula. With this tour, you'll set sail aboard a large cruise ship, admire views of Isla San Lucas and Isla Tortuga from the water, and enjoy time on the island to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach.

Appease your appetite for adventure during an exhilarating 3-hour rafting session on the Sarapiqui River from Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui . With an experienced guide, conquer the Class II and III rapids on the river’s most intense section and feel your adrenaline levels surge. During calmer periods, marvel at the abundance of exotic wildlife on the banks of the Sarapiqui River and listen to fascinating commentary from your guide.

Discover the beautiful natural attractions of Costa Rica on this all-day tour from San Jose. Fly over the rainforest canopy via a zipline course and rappel down 150 feet (50 meters) at an adventure park. Visit two waterfalls and admire the local wildlife including iguanas. Stop at a coffee plantation where you'll learn how it's cultivated and harvested. Finally, relax in thermal mineral hot springs at the base of Arenal Volcano.

Certified Professional Guides: Skilled and experienced to provide safe and enjoyable trips. Verified & Insured Adventures: All trips are fully insured for your peace of mind. Unmatched Experience & Professionalism: Decades of expertise in rafting and kayaking tours. Commitment to Sustainability: We prioritize eco-friendly practices to protect Costa Rica's natural beauty. Worldwide Adventure Compliance: Adhering to international adventure tourism regulations. Perfect for Families, Friends, Groups, and Schools: Tailored adventures for every type of guest.

Experience a thrilling day out on the Sarapiqui River with this half-day guided whitewater rafting adventure. Make your way to the base camp, then get transported to the river, where you’ll tackle more than 10 class II and III rapids with a certified rafting guide.

In just one day, it’s possible to visit top Costa Rica attractions including Arenal Volcano, La Paz Waterfall, and Arenal Hot Springs when you book this full-day guided tour from San Jose. All-inclusive private transport smooths over otherwise tricky transportation logistics, and your guide keeps you entertained and informed as you explore. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, all entrance fees, plus two meals, adding up to a great value.

Sample a wide variety of Costa Rican flavors while learning about the country's cultural heritage on this San Jose walking tour. You'll shop for fruits and veggies at the Mercado Central and Mercado Borbón, visit the National Theater and Morazan Park, and try local treats including traditional picadill, a hands-on cooking class with artisanal chocolate empanadas, and specialty coffee at Mr. Sloth Coffee Shop.

Turn up the island energy aboard the Punta Cana Hip-Hop Adults Party Boat! Cruise the turquoise Caribbean waters with live DJs spinning Hip-Hop, R&B, Dancehall, and Afrobeats while enjoying unlimited drinks from the open bar. Swim and snorkel in crystal-clear waters, cruise past Dolphins Island for unforgettable photos, and party at a lively natural sandbar with music, dancing, games, and an incredible crowd. The perfect experience for birthdays, celebrations, nightlife lovers, and anyone looking for the ultimate Caribbean party. Itinerary: • Hotel pickup & check-in • Snorkeling in crystal-clear Caribbean waters • Cruise past Dolphins Island for photo opportunities • Party at a natural sandbar with music, dancing & open bar • Return cruise with DJ, games & farewell shots

Leave behind the urban bustle of San Jose for the clear, aquamarine waters and unspoiled beauty of Tortuga Island on this full-day sailing adventure. Cruise on a yacht or catamaran through the Gulf of Nicoya to Tortuga and the surrounding archipelago, where protected forests, white-sand beaches, and pollution-free waters house an amazing array of plant and animal species. Enjoy a fresh lunch on board, sip tropical cocktails, and sway to live music as you sail through this picturesque island paradise.

Costa Rica’s capital is located inland but you don’t need a weeks-long vacation to enjoy time at the beach. This day trip to Tortuga Island makes it easy to swim and sunbathe directly from San Jose. After a pickup in the capital and transfers in an air-conditioned vehicle, spend the day on a beach featuring clear turquoise water and surrounded by rainforest. Swim, snorkel, and refuel with the provided lunch.

Discover San Jose’s hidden delights with this unique evening tour of the Costa Rican capital. Get up close and personal with the nightlife in San Jose, starting with the Morazán Park where you'll learn post-colonial Costa Rican history. From there, gain an appreciation for San Jose’s historical architecture, with a walk by the Metallic Building, then on to Spain Park for a fantastic view of the Yellow House (now the Ministry of Foreign Affairs). Continue to charming Barrio Escalante, one of the oldest residential areas in San Jose.  Finish the night with a tasty traditional meal (and wine or beer) at a gourmet Costa Rican restaurant.

Remote Tortuguero is difficult to reach independently, meaning some people put it in the “too hard” category. Simplify your trip to this off-the-beaten-track eco-tourism destination during a convenient 3-day tour from San Jose. Two nights’ accommodation in a 4-star lodge plus all meals are included, so you don’t need to make extra bookings. Learn about the local wildlife and ecosystem during a guided tour of Tortuguero National Park.

The first museum of water in Costa Rica, our company is a tribute to the science and magic of water. Immerse yourself in a natural paradise, with a series of waterfalls that drives the cycle of life. Touch it and feel it. Dive and swim, walk and climb, be inspired and be moved. Give yourself an incredible experience. Experience a magical connection with water and its many secrets and wonders. In this tour, you will also get an exclusive access to all our premises.

Explore the Costa Rican capital’s rich history, landmark buildings, and modern culture on a combo bus and walking tour of San Jose. Get a great introduction to city highlights like the National Theater and Art Museum, and stop to walk through bustling markets and public plazas to feel the pulse of this modern Central American metropolis. Get an extra boost of Costa Rican culture by listening to traditional folkloric music onboard the bus.

This tour is one of the Top River Adventures in Costa Rica. Pacuare River is considered a world class river for the practice of whitewater rafting, even for beginners or professionals who need practice for international tournaments. It is located about 2.5 hours from San Jose. This scenic ride from San Jose is just spectacular, with beautiful views of rainforest and small villages along the way. The lodge, where you will stay overnight is enchanting. It is located right in the middle of a pristine rainforest. The rooms are rustic but have all the comfort for living a deep nature encounter. Paved trails are available to all those who want to explore the area and see the abundant wildlife species of the area such as howler monkeys, toucans, sloths and many more.

Get on the Pejibaye River totally worry-free with this all-inclusive tour. After pickup from your hotel, you’ll hop into your private car for a ride to the river—and a stop for a traditional Costa Rican breakfast. Once at the water, your guides will set you up for an exciting 3-hour float through the jungle, complete with photos, water, and towels provided.

Get out of the city and experience Costa Rica’s rich wildlife heritage with this half day private tour to the Toucan Rescue Ranch. What started out as a rescue facility for toucans has expanded to include other charismatic species such as sloths, monkeys, parrots, and owls. Learn all about them from the dedicated staff committed to their care.

Enjoy our most challenging adventure in section III and IV where you can find up to 30 continuous rapids and beautiful natural pools where you can swim and eat Costa Rican fruits, all while enjoying the beautiful views of the Poas Volcano and the nature it offers. Pura Vida rafting offers the best rafting and kayaking tours on the Sarapiqui River. Choose from the different sections we have for you; from class I-II to III-IV, if you are not sure write us and we will make sure to give you the best experience and fun. Our professional and certified staff will give you a personal experience while descending one of the best rivers in Costa Rica, where they will also show you the flora and fauna characteristic of the area.

Discover Costa Rica through a 10-night and 11-day experience that combines exuberant nature, culture, adventure, and relaxation in some of the country's most fascinating destinations. The tour starts in San José and continues to Tortuguero, known as the small "Amazon" of Costa Rica, where the tropical forests and abundant wildlife create a unique setting; subsequently, it ventures into South Caribbean to enjoy its tropical essence and Afro-Caribbean cultural richness. The adventure continues in Arenal, with the imposing presence of the Arenal Volcano and the scenic beauty of La Fortuna Waterfall, before ending on the paradisiacal beaches of Manuel Antonio or Punta Leona, where nature and relaxation meet in a privileged setting. A carefully designed program to discover the diversity of Costa Rica, from its jungles and volcanoes to its beaches and cultures, enjoying authentic and memorable experiences throughout the trip.

Beginner kayakers are at ease on this Sarapiqui River kayaking tour. Roll over mild class I and II rapids on your way to wildlife watching zones along the river, which runs through a biodiverse section of the jungle. You might see tropical birds, wild orchids, and more as you follow your guide along the course.

Explore Costa Rica's highlights, without the pressure of organizing your own multi-day trip, on this 8-day, 7-night private tour. Starting with pickup at San Jose (SJO) airport, relax knowing your transportation, accommodation, activities, and meals are all covered. Enjoy an itinerary that includes Tortuguero National Park, Arenal Volcano National Park, Tortuga Island, and more.