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Costa Rican Paddling Retreat

Mark Your Calendars: November 24-December 1, 2026

We are excited to head back to Costa Rica with Amazing Vacations Costa Rica, for our annual international kayak trip. Our mission has always been to share our love for river paddling with as many people as possible, and this partnership with Amazing Vacations will allow us to paddle the rivers of Costa Rica. Over 8 days, we will explore three different rivers (Sarapiqui, Pejibaye & Pacuare), paddle through stunning jungle canyons, and immerse ourselves in the local culture while enjoying great company and food.

Our team will include two highly experienced ACA instructors, as well as, local guides from Amazing Vacations. We are committed to sharing our passion for water sports in this unique classroom setting, where we will focus on honing your skills or refining what you already know. Participants should have Class II-III Boating experience, as we will be running mainly Class II-III with one day of Class IV at the end. However, if there are sections that you are not comfortable with, you will have the option to join a raft. Whitewater kayaks, packrafts, and guided rafts will be available.

If you kayak, but your want to bring your partner or friend and they don't kayak, they can jump on a raft and still enjoy the fun! So, we invite you to join us on this exceptional paddling adventure in Costa Rica and discover your love for the river!

 

Trip Info:

BOOK NOW!

Calling All Kayakers, Packrafters, and Rafters!

Cost: $2,950

Reserve Your Spot: Deposit $590

Deposit Due: September 1, 2026

Final Payment Due: September 24, 2026

Any questions call 4CRS 970.259.3893 or email paddleschool@riversports.com

Itinerary subject to change

What's Included?

  • Included

    • Private transportation for entire trip

    • Private Kayaking Guides & Shuttle Drivers

    • All lodging

    • All Meals Included

    • All activities and entrance fees listed on the itinerary 

  • Not Included

    • International Airfare
    • Luggage
    • Tips for guides, instructors, etc.
    • International Travel Medical Insurance

    • Alcoholic beverages

ITINERARY:

Day 1: Arrival to San Jose / Turrialba Bed & Breakfast

(Dinner only this day) 

Fly into San Jose by 12pm to meet the group and travel by bus to Turrialba. This may mean you have to come a day early depending on where you are coming from. Ask for hotel recommendations if you come early.

Day 2: Kayaking Pejibaye River - Class II/III - Stay @ Turrialba Bed & Breakfast

Kayaking or Pack Rafting on the Pejibaye, a beautiful, road-side Class II-III section that is great for warming up and instruction. Lots of super fun read & run rapids with on-the-fly surf waves under a jungle canopy make this a great intro to Costa Rica paddling.

A woman paddles a green kayak by a waterfall in lush forest—a perfect setting for the Ladies Costa Rica Paddling Retreat by 4CRS Paddle School.

Day 3: Kayaking Sarapiqui River - Class II/III - Stay @ Arambigua Hotel

Travel to the Puerto Viejo de Sarapiqui for some more tropical Class II/III paddling on the Sarapiqui River, another great pool drop stretch that is awesome for instruction. Stay at the beautiful Arambigua Lodge and be sure not to miss the short, on-site nature walk.

Day 4:Upper or Lower Sarapiqui River - Class III/IV Stay @ Turrialba Bed & Breakfast

We will paddle a different section of the Sarapiqui for some more tropical Class III/IV paddling on the Sarapiqui River, another great pool drop stretch that is awesome for instruction. We will head back to Turrialba and stay at the Turrialba Bed & Breakfast.

Day 5: Kayaking / Rafting Pacuare River - Class III - Stay @ POC Lodge

Today starts your adventure on the Pacuare, one of the most well-renowned whitewater trips in the world! The first day consist of mostly Class III rapids followed by a short hike up to the POC Eco-Lodge where we'll spend the next 2 nights! 

Day 6: Layover at the Lodge - Zipline / Tarzan Swing / Waterfalls

Today is our "layover day" at the lodge! Get your adrenaline going with a lap on the zipline course, a shot at the Tarzan Swing, and / or a nearby waterfall jump. Or just chill and enjoy the beauty from the huge patio overlooking the river. There is no electricity at the Lodge so be sure to bring a book and a headlamp! 

Day 7: Rafting Pacuare River - Class III/IV - Stay at Barcelo San Jose

Enjoy your final morning in the jungle before embarking on the pinnacle of your trip, the Lower Pacuare Canyon! This epic day run, which is solid Class III/IV, sure is an amazing one! Enjoy huge waterfalls, world-class rapids, epic short hikes, all in one of the most beautiful canyons in Central America. At the end of the day, we'll pack up and make our way back to San Jose where we will stay at Barcelo San Jose. 

Day 8: Departure Day

It's time to say goodbye, or to start the next leg of your Costa Rican journey. We're happy to make recommendations on how / where to extend your stay! 

BOOK NOW!

See the Pacuare Outdoor Center Eco Lodge