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Sarapiqui River (Rio Sarapiquí)
Natural Attraction

Sarapiqui River (Rio Sarapiquí)

Costa Rica
4.7
(850 reviews)
36
Tours Available
$30
Adult Entry
4-5 hours
Recommended Duration
December-April
Best Time

Overview

The Sarapiqui River, located in the lush Sarapiquí region of Costa Rica, offers a thrilling adventure through its rapids and serene beauty. It's a popular spot for white-water rafting, wildlife spotting, and eco-tourism.

The river is known for its biodiversity and adventure sports, making it a key destination for eco-tourism in Costa Rica.

River Adventure Eco-tourism

Location

Address

Sarapiqui, Heredia

Neighborhood: Sarapiquí

Coordinates

10.416700, -84.016700

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
tuesday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
wednesday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
thursday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
friday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
saturday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM
sunday 7:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults
$30
Children
$15

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

December-April

Best Time of Day

Early morning

Clear weather, fewer crowds

Duration Recommendations

Minimum
2 hours
Recommended
4-5 hours
Full Experience
Full day with guided tour

Seasonal Highlights

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

  • Book tours in advance
  • Bring insect repellent
  • Wear appropriate clothing

What to Bring

essential

ID Water Tours tickets

recommended

Camera Sunscreen Hat

seasonal

Rain jacket Waterproof bag

not allowed

Large bags Drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: Moderate to high (depending on activity)

  • • Follow guide instructions
  • • Rafting can be strenuous

Medical facilities: First aid available on-site

Payment Information

Accepted

Cash, Credit cards

Currency

Costa Rican Colón (CRC)

Typical Costs

entry $30
parking $5
food $10
tours $70-$150

Dress Code

Casual, comfortable, Quick-dry clothing, water shoes, Water shoes or sandals with straps, Inappropriate clothing for rafting

Booking Tips

  • • At least 1 week
  • • Official tourism websites or local tour operators
  • • 48 hours
  • • Available for guided tours

Amenities

Restrooms
Gift shop
Atm
Wifi
Lockers
Wheelchair rental
Stroller rental
On site restaurant
Cafe
Picnic areas
Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Sarapiquí Adventure

Size: 45 MB

Features: Tour booking, Map, Audio guide

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Visitor center, Cafe

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO)

Distance: 70 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

taxi
$80 1.5 hours
shuttle
$30 1.5 hours

From City Center

Distance: 50 km

bus
$5 2 hours
taxi
$60 1 hour
rental_car
Varies 1 hour

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Rich biodiversity and adventure opportunities

Historical Significance: Key area for eco-tourism development in Costa Rica

Insider Tips

  • Early morning tours have fewer tourists
  • Best coffee shops located near the river
  • Local guides offer unique insights

Local Recommendations

  • • Try local coffee
  • • Ask for local guides
  • • Visit nearby hot springs

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello Hola
thank_you Gracias
where_is ¿Dónde está?
how_much ¿Cuánto cuesta?
beautiful Hermoso
ticket Boleto

Guide Languages: Spanish, English, French

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

River rapids

Best Time: Early morning

Tips: Capture action shots

Result: Thrilling rafting photos

#adventure #rafting #costarica

Rainforest surroundings

Best Time: Late afternoon

Tips: Wide shots for landscapes

Result: Breathtaking nature photos

#nature #rainforest #travel

Photography Rules

allowed areas Outdoor areas, Designated viewpoints
prohibited areas Restricted tour areas
flash photography Allowed in most areas
commercial photography Permit needed
drone policy Prohibited without special permit
tripod policy Allowed in designated areas
selfie sticks Allowed

Nearby Attractions

La Selva Biological Station

Distance: 5km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Research Station

Tiricio Rainforest Center

Distance: 3km

Walking: 40 min

Type: Eco-tourism Center

Arenal Volcano

Distance: 50km

Walking: Not walkable

Type: Volcano

Reviews

4.7

Based on 850 reviews

Recent Visitor Tips

  • "Book tours early"
  • "Bring waterproof camera"
  • "Follow guide instructions"

Contact Information

Related Tours & Activities (1)

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Quick Info

Available Tours

36

Rating

4.7 / 5.0

Reviews

850

Adult Entry

$30

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