Javi the Frog on Balsa on the water rafting with Wave Expeditions
Javi the Frog on Balsa on the water rafting with Wave Expeditions

Have you ever been white water rafting? It's one of the most thrilling experiences I've ever had!! The great people at Wave Expeditions in La Fortuna helped me get over my fear of raging down a river for the first time. Man, was I nervous! But I was able to lead the boat down the rapids and my sticky feet pads made it easy for me to grip on tight.

With the Arenal Volcano in the backdrop, La Fortuna is one of the most beautiful places in the country to go roaring down rapids. There are several rivers in the area that feature class IV rapids! The infamous Toro River is a class III/IV river, and Blaso River is class II/III. Whether you want to go cruising underneath towering waterfalls or soar through the tops of the canopy like the monkeys you can do that here. Afterwards you can even relax in the natural thermal waters or hike through the mountain trails to get a peek at some of the flora and fauna of the area.

Javi the Frog on guide's head having fun
Javi the Frog on guide's head having fun
Guanacaste Escape Adventure Tour
7 Days / 6 Nights
Starting at $779 per person

What is white water rafting?

When I first arrived at Wave Expeditions, I had no idea what to expect. So that you aren't surprised upon your trip down the rapids, I'll give you a little background knowledge I learned. You use a big inflatable raft to navigate down a river of different grades. Although the ratings are only one through four,it's very challenging. You use paddles to maneuver the raft through rough waters, rocks, waves and some hazards depending on the level of the waters.

Whether you're trying to figure out what to do in Costa Rica on a family vacation or a romantic getaway, white water rafting is a great way to spend your time! Don't be fooled, rafting is a workout but it's well worth the time and effort. Once you get into the boat, an even amount of people sit on each side of the raft and one side paddles forward and the other backwards to move around boulders and rocks. It takes a minute to get used to you, but you'll catch on quickly. Otherwise, you just go around in circles!

Javi the Frog getting ready to begin its rafting adventure with Wave expeditions
Javi the Frog getting ready to begin its rafting adventure with Wave expeditions

Safety

One of my biggest concerns before heading down the river was the safety of the sport. Although it's a challenging activity, there's no need to be afraid of venturing through the rapids. You wear a vest and helmet for precaution, but the tour guides teach you exactly how to move properly and use equipment. Instructors will also teach you how to control the boat and what to do if you begin to lose control.

Guide jumping on boat on white water rapids
Guide jumping on boat on white water rapids

Wave Expeditions

Wherever you're staying in Costa Rica hotels, chances are you can go on a white water rafting tour with Wave Expeditions. They help thousands of travelers each year go on the adventure of a lifetime, and every tour is a unique experience. Depending on the region you're heading to, it will be different scenery and class rapids. Plus, Wave Expeditions offers different tours that make it easy for you to experience the entire area during your stay. Have you always wanted to go kayaking or mountain bike riding through the Arenal Volcano area or spelunking? You can personalize your trip to make it a lifelong memory. Trust me, you won't be let down! Even a little frog like me can experience my homeland in a whole new light.

If you've ever been on a white water rafting excursion, you know how exciting it can be! I'd love to hear about your experience taking charge in the waters of Costa Rica.

Javi the Frog leading the boat in the rapids, La Fortuna
Javi the Frog leading the boat in the rapids, La Fortuna