Kayaking
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Kayaking
Of course you can also enjoy Costa Rica’s rivers, lakes, as well as spectacular coastline, in a kayak. Again, there’s something for anyone’s taste, from the tranquil to the extreme. Almost anywhere you are in Costa Rica, some sort of kayaking is close by.
These are the Classifications of Rivers:
• Class I, Easy: Fast current, with ripples and small waves. Little obstructions that can be easily manipulated. The risk for swimmers is low and self-rescue is easy.
• Class ll, Beginners: Direct rapids with wide canals. Simple maneuvers are needed on some sections of the river. The risk for swimmers is low.
• Class III, Intermediate: Rapids with moderate waves. Narrow passages and rapid currents, require more difficult maneuvering.
• Class IV, Advanced: Intense rapids, requiring precise control of the raft in turbulent waters. Maneuvers need to be done quickly. Self-rescue is difficult because of water conditions, so raft mates assistance in necessary.
• Class V, Expert: Very long and fierce rapids. Descents may have waves, big holes and sudden falls with complicated routes.
• Class VI, Extreme: Expert teams required, with safety being a must. Consequences of mistakes can be severe and rescue may be impossible.
Costa Rica Rivers
These are a few of the more popular rivers for rafting and/or kayaking:
Reventazon: The Tucurrique section (Class III) is appropriate for beginners. The Pascua section (Class IV-V) is very turbulent, and requires previous experience, but that being said, the Pascua section will thrill you with the ultimate white-knuckle experience in river rafting with its intensive nonstop action. The Reventazon can be run year around.
Pacuare: Costa Rica’s longest and most spectacular river trip (Class III-IV). Voted ‘One of the Top 10 River Trips in the World,’ by National Geographic. The Lower Pacuare is the more famous and more accessible run: 28km through rocky gorges, isloated canyons, past an indigenous village, untamed jungle and lots of wildlife. The Upper Pacuare is also Class lll-lV, but there are a few sections that can go to Class V depending on conditions. This is also a very scenic run. The Pacuare can be run year-round, but June to October are considered the best months. A two-day trip is recommended.
Sarapiqui: This is a beautiful river and a great trip for beginners (Class II-III). You can access a trip on this river either thru San Jose or the Arenal area, from mid May thru mid March.
Saavegre: Another beautiful river in Costa Rica and is excellent for beginners (Class II-III). Trip depart from Manuel Antonio and Quepos, May thru January.
Naranjo: You’ll want a little more rafting experience before attempting this wild river (Class III-IV) located near Quepos. The Naranjo runs from June thru November.
El General: This river is both popular with kayakers and rafters alike (Class III-IV). El General is best during the height of the rainy season which is from September to November.
