VERACRUZ GUIDED TOUR FIELD GUIDE
A Week on Costa Rica’s Wild Rivers: Sarapiquí to the Pacuare by Kayak, Canoe, or Packraft
An eight‑day guided progression through a sequence of class‑3 (with optional class‑4) runs, paired with rainforest side trips and lodge stays — a concise field guide to what to expect on the Week of Rivers.
A Week on Costa Rica’s Wild Rivers: Sarapiquí to the Pacuare by Kayak, Canoe, or Packraft.
Experience the thrill of Costa Rica’s premier whitewater on a compact, guided week that moves paddlers between Sarapiquí and Pacuare runs. Each day brings a new river or river section—mostly class 3 with some optional class‑4—framed by rainforest scenery, good food, and lodge‑style evenings, all arranged so you can focus on paddling and exploring.
Highlights
Outing Highlights
Sarapiquí to Pacuare: A Progression of Runs
The Week of Rivers strings together distinct whitewater experiences—La Virgin and San Miguel on the Sarapiquí, Puerto Viejo (with an optional Soucio run), the technical Upper Upper Pacuare, and a spectacular overnight on the Lower Pacuare—offering mostly class‑3 paddling with optional class‑4 sections.
Rainforest Scenery and Lodge Nights
Daytime paddling moves through lush rainforest corridors while nights are spent in comfortable lodge‑style accommodation, letting the river days and local food be the focus.
Daily Variety and Side Trips
Beyond the whitewater, the program includes curated side trips and river shuttle logistics so each day offers a different run or regional excursion—ideal for paddlers who want variety within a single, tightly scheduled week.
What the day feels like
What the week feels like
This guided week is a rolling sequence: arrive and settle into the Sarapiquí base, hit a new run each day (from La Virgin through the Sam Miguel section and onward to Puerto Viejo and the Pacuare), and finish after a two‑day Lower Pacuare section that includes an overnight. Expect sustained days on class‑3 whitewater with opportunities for more technical, optional class‑4 sections; off‑river time is organized around meals, transfers, and side trips so the pace stays active but manageable.
Suitability
Who it's for
Who this week serves best — and who should look elsewhere.
Practical planner
Details to review before reserving
After arrival in country, the trip provides all local transportation, freshly prepared meals, lodge‑style accommodation, smooth river shuttles, professional guide services, and top‑quality paddling equipment.
Top‑quality paddling equipment is included as part of the trip package.
Freshly prepared meals and lodge‑style accommodation are provided throughout the week.
Local transfers and river shuttles are arranged for participants once they arrive in country.
Review cancellation policies before reserving.
Frequently asked questions
Planning Your Outing
How long is the Week of Rivers trip?
The program runs eight days from arrival to departure.
What is the minimum age to join?
Participants must be at least 12 years old to take part.
Which rivers and sections are included?
Planned runs include sections of the Sarapiquí (La Virgin and Sam Miguel), Puerto Viejo (with a possible Soucio run), Upper Upper Pacuare, and a two‑day Lower Pacuare descent including an overnight.
What whitewater skill level is required?
The itinerary features mostly class‑3 whitewater with optional class‑4+ sections for those who want to challenge themselves.
Is paddling equipment provided?
Yes — top‑quality paddling equipment is included as part of the trip package.
Can the itinerary change?
Yes — activities and specific river runs are subject to change due to weather, water levels, road or safety conditions.