In short
- Children must be at least 12 years old for the main commercial sections.
- The minimum weight requirement is generally 110 lbs (50 kg).
- Younger kids can try calmer Class I-II float sections instead.
In this article
Rafting the Pacuare River is a top family activity in Costa Rica. However, the water here moves fast. Tour operators enforce clear rules to keep everyone safe. If your children meet the requirements, they can tackle the main gorge. If not, alternative stretches offer a milder ride.
What is the minimum age to raft the Pacuare River?
The minimum age for the main Class III-IV commercial rafting sections is 12 years old.
Tour operators strictly enforce this rule. The 17-mile (28 km) stretch from San Martín to Siquirres involves navigating 40 to 50 distinct rapids. The water requires active paddling for 4 to 5 hours, which is too demanding for younger children.
Is there a weight limit for children?
Yes, kids usually need to weigh at least 110 lbs (50 kg).
This weight requirement ensures that children are large enough to safely fit into the provided personal flotation devices (life jackets). It also guarantees they have enough body weight to help stabilize the raft and paddle effectively during Class III and IV rapids.
Are there family float sections for younger kids?
Yes, younger children can safely raft on calmer Class I-II sections.
If your kids are under 12 or weigh less than 110 lbs, skip the main gorge. Some operators offer lower-grade trips on different parts of the river. These sections feature gentle currents and small waves, making them perfect for younger families.
What safety gear is provided for kids?
All rafters, including children, receive safety helmets and Coast Guard-approved life jackets.
Every participant must wear this gear at all times on the water. Before getting into the raft, a professional river guide ensures that all helmets and life jackets fit snugly on younger passengers.
What should kids wear on the river?
Children need secure water shoes, a swimsuit, and a synthetic shirt for sun protection.
Flip-flops and bare feet are strictly forbidden. Make sure your kids have sandals with ankle straps or closed-toe water shoes. A rash guard helps protect against the sun, and waterproof, eco-friendly sunscreen is highly recommended.
Do kids need to paddle?
Yes, on the main Class III-IV runs, everyone in the raft must paddle.
The professional river guide steers, but the crew provides the power. Kids will need to follow commands like "forward hard" or "get down." On the easier Class I-II floats, paddling is often optional.
| Section | Class | Age Limit | Paddling Required |
|---|---|---|---|
| Main Gorge | Class III-IV | 12+ years | Yes, active paddling |
| Family Float | Class I-II | Usually 6+ years | Optional/Minimal |
Questions travellers ask
Is the water too cold for kids?
No, the average water temperature is a comfortable 70°F (21°C) year-round.
Can my 10-year-old do the 1-day Pacuare trip?
No, the standard 1-day commercial trip requires a minimum age of 12 due to the Class III-IV rapids.
Should I choose Pacuare or Sarapiquí for young kids?
For kids under 12, the Sarapiquí River often provides better options for shorter, family-friendly Class II-III runs.
