In short
- Day trips cost $95 to $120.
- Transport and safety gear are included.
- Guides expect gratuity (not included).
In this article
Booking a trip down the Pacuare River is straightforward. Most operators bundle the essentials into a single day-trip ticket. Prices vary slightly based on your pickup location and the tour length.
How much are Pacuare River rafting tickets?
Standard day trips range from $95 to $120 depending on the operator.
Prices fluctuate slightly per booking platform and season. Tours starting with a shuttle from San José tend to cost more than those meeting locally in Turrialba.
What is included in the base ticket price?
Your ticket covers all necessary safety gear, a professional river guide, and transportation.
Tours provide Coast Guard-approved life jackets, helmets, and paddles. Most operators also include a Costa Rican lunch at the end of the trip. Tickets often feature round-trip shuttles from major hubs like San José.
| Usually Included | Usually Excluded |
|---|---|
| Safety gear (helmet, life jacket) | Guide gratuity |
| Lunch | Alcoholic drinks |
| Round-trip transport | Souvenir photos |
What is not included in the tour price?
Gratuities, souvenir photos, and alcoholic beverages are almost always excluded.
You will need to bring extra cash to cover these items. Operators often sell professional photos of your raft navigating the Class III-IV rapids after the trip concludes.
Do I need to tip the river guides?
Yes, tipping your rafting guides is standard practice in Costa Rica.
Because tips are excluded from the initial ticket price, plan to bring cash. The guides manage your safety through 40 to 50 distinct rapids during the 17-mile (28 km) journey.
How much do multi-day Pacuare River trips cost?
Two-day packages start around $370, while three-day tours start near $505.
Multi-day tickets include overnight stays at remote eco-lodges accessible only by raft. These packages also cover additional meals like breakfast and dinner.
Is it cheaper to drive myself to the river?
No, driving yourself does not usually lower the ticket price.
Most operators charge a flat rate whether you use their shuttle or meet them at the Finca Tres Equis launch point. If you rent a car, the operator will securely store it during your 4 to 5 hours on the water.
Questions travellers ask
Do I need to buy tickets in advance?
Yes, you should book in advance to secure your transport and gear. The river operates year-round, but daily capacity is limited.
Are there discounts for children?
Pricing is usually standard for all participants. The minimum age for the commercial Class III-IV rafting section is 12 years old.
Can I get a refund if I cancel?
Most major tour operators offer a full refund if you cancel at least 24 hours before your scheduled departure time.
