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4 Day itinerary in Costa Rica, Central America & Caribbean

Tortuguero Trails & Pacuare Rapids 4D/3N

Embark on an unforgettable Costa Rica adventure with lush rainforests and thrilling whitewater rapids. Navigate the biodiverse Tortuguero National Park, spotting exotic wildlife and pristine landscapes. Then, tackle the exhilarating Pacuare River, famous for its world-class rapids and stunning canyo... Read More

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Veronica

By Veronica

Overview

Physical Difficulty

Light
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Recommended Age

Everyone

Operated in

English

GUIDANCE

On Some Day Trips

starting point

San José

trip type

Private

trip attributes

Nature & Widlife

Wildlife

Marine Adventure

Adventure

Multi-sport

Start/End

Night

Highlights

1

Navigate the mysterious waterways of Tortuguero by canoe.

2

Raft through the adrenaline-pumping Class III-IV rapids of Río Pacuare.

3

Hike and swim in the pristine, jungle-clad environs of Pacuare.

4

Enjoy eco-friendly lodging infused with authentic Caribbean charm.

Itinerary

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Day 1

place San Jose to Tortuguero

As dawn unfurls its golden hues, ready yourself for a journey from your chosen departure point to the verdant labyrinth of Tortuguero National Park. 

As you glide through the serene canals, the jungle's chorus serenades you, revealing glimpses of exotic wildlife in their natural symphony. Arriving at your eco-lodge, witness the vibrant paints of the Caribbean splash across quaint accommodations. 

The afternoon beckons with a stroll through the rustic charm of Tortuguero town, rich in culture and whispers of local life.

Included Experiences:

  • Morning transfer to Tortuguero.
  • Canoe tour in Tortuguero National Park's waterways.
  • Visit to the colourful Tortuguero village.

Note: This tour offers the flexibility to start from San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo, catering to your travel preferences and location in Costa Rica.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostel Tortuguero or Similar
  • Standard: La Casona or Similar
Day 2

place Tortuguero National Park

With the first light of day, the naturalist's canoe cuts silently through the glassy water, a portal to the jungle's hidden realms. Tropical birds take flight, monkeys chatter, and with each paddle stroke, the secrets of Tortuguero's waterways unfold before you. 

As the sun sets, the anticipation grows; optional night tours offer a chance to witness the ethereal ritual of turtle nesting—a mesmerizing dance of ancient rhythms (additional cost).

Included Experiences:

  • Early morning canoe tour regulated by Tortuguero's natural rhythms.
  • Optional turtle nesting night tour (not included in the package).

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Hostel Tortuguero or Similar
  • Standard: La Casona or Similar
Day 3

place Tortuguero to Pacuare

Seize the day with an early departure to the heart-racing Río Pacuare. The river's embrace beckons you to its running streams, where you'll navigate through Class III rapids, an enthralling display of Mother Nature's power. 

By noon, the Pacuare River Lodge emerges as a sanctuary where you can unwind or choose to explore further on an optional hike. As night descends, the riverine soundtrack plays a lullaby under a canopy of stars, promising another day of adventure.

Included Experiences:

  • Thrilling Río Pacuare rafting experience.
  • Arrival and relaxation at the inviting Pacuare River Lodge.
  • Optional afternoon hike or hammock relaxation.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Accommodation:

  • Budget: Pacuare River Lodge
  • Standard: Pacuare River Lodge
Day 4

place Pacuare to San Jose

Arise amidst the whispers of the river, ready for the grand finale on Pacuare's mighty waters. 

Today, your paddles will propel you through the heart-thumping Class IV rapids, a true test of your river mettle. Between the swirling waters, the day offers serene interludes with a hike to a secluded waterfall and a riverside lunch. 

Post-adventure, choose your onward journey to either San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo, carrying the wild heartbeat of the river with you as you transition back to the comforts of civilization.

Included Experiences:

  • Day of exhilarating Class IV whitewater rafting.
  • Exploratory hike to a hidden waterfall.
  • Choice of return destination: San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo.

Note: This memorable escapade concludes with the option to return to San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo, accommodating your onward travel plans and preference for the journey's finale.

Guide: Included for the day

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

What’s Included

Accommodation expand_less

  • Hostel Tortuguero or Similar
  • Pacuare River Lodge
  • Pacuare River Lodge
  • La Casona or Similar

Meals expand_less

  • Breakfast (4)
  • Lunch (2)
  • Dinner (1)

Transport expand_less

  • Roundtrip transfers available from San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo
  • Local boat and road transfers in Tortuguero.
  • Rafting-related transportation.

Activities expand_less

  • Optional hikes and exploration activities.
  • Canoe tour of Tortuguero's waterways.
  • Visit to Tortuguero village.
  • 2 days of exhilarating rafting on the Río Pacuare.

Extras expand_less

  • Comprehensive insurance coverage.
  • Multiple departure point options.
  • Safety gear for rafting provided.

Not Included expand_less

  • Tortuguero National Park entrance ($15).
  • Caribbean Conservation Corp fee ($2).
  • Optional turtle nesting night tour ($35).
  • Lunches and dinner in Tortuguero.
  • Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses.

About Veronica

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