In short
- Guided tours include round-trip shuttles from San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo.
- The drive from San José to the river takes about 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
- Tour operators store your luggage safely in the van while you raft.
In this article
Getting to the Pacuare River is straightforward because local tour operators handle the logistics. Whether you want a door-to-door shuttle from your hotel or prefer the flexibility of driving yourself, you have reliable options to reach the put-in points at San Martín or Finca Tres Equis.
What is the best way to get to the Pacuare River?
The best way to get to the river is by booking a guided rafting trip that includes round-trip transportation.
These tours typically pick you up from major hubs like San José, La Fortuna, or Puerto Viejo. The shuttle service is usually included in the standard $95 to $120 tour price. Using the operator's transport removes the stress of navigating rural roads.
How long does it take to get to the river from San José?
The trip from San José to the put-in takes 1.5 to 2.5 hours.
If you take a tour shuttle, expect the ride to take 2 to 2.5 hours. Driving a rental car directly to Turrialba or Finca Tres Equis takes about 1.5 to 2 hours. Traffic conditions around the capital can affect your exact travel time.
Can you drive a rental car to the Pacuare River?
Yes, you can drive a rental car to the operator's center in Turrialba or the Finca Tres Equis meeting point.
Rafting operators usually store your car securely while you are on the water. Many companies also offer a shuttle service to move your car to the take-out point in Siquirres. This allows you to continue your journey immediately after the 17-mile (28 km) rafting trip ends.
What happens to my luggage during the rafting trip?
Your luggage is stored securely in the tour operator's transport vehicle while you raft.
Because your bags stay in the van, rafting the Pacuare River is a popular transition activity between cities. For example, you can take a shuttle from San José, raft for 4 to 5 hours, and then take the onward shuttle to Puerto Viejo with your luggage.
Where is the launch point for Pacuare River rafting?
Commercial rafting trips primarily launch from San Martín or Finca Tres Equis.
These put-in spots are located near Turrialba in the Cartago Province. You will spend 30 to 45 minutes here for a safety briefing and gear distribution. Make sure to use the restrooms before launching, as there are no facilities in the river gorge.
How do you get to the Pacuare Lodge?
The Pacuare Lodge is accessible exclusively by raft.
This eco-lodge sits directly on the riverbanks deep within the gorge. To reach it, you must book a multi-day rafting package. This breaks the standard 17-mile river journey into two days, letting you stay overnight in the jungle.
Questions travellers ask
Where is the Pacuare River located in Costa Rica?
The Pacuare River is located in the Cartago and Limón Provinces. It flows from the Talamanca Mountains to the Caribbean Sea, with most rafting operations based out of Turrialba.
Can you visit the Pacuare River without taking a guided tour?
While the river itself is free to access, navigating the Class III-IV rapids requires professional equipment and guides. Booking a commercial tour is the practical way to experience the water safely.
How much does it cost to raft the Pacuare River?
A standard 1-day guided rafting trip costs between $95 and $120. These prices vary by platform and operator, but they generally include your transportation and safety gear.
