Intensity: Class II & III | Vibe: The "Pura Vida" Experience

The Savegre is widely considered the cleanest river in Central America. It offers a perfect mix of exciting rapids and calm stretches where you can swim and admire the primary rainforest. Definitely check out our blog: Natural Beauty of the Savegre and Naranjo Rivers in Costa Rica.

• The Flow: Expect a series of rolling, rhythmic rapids that provide a thrill without being overwhelming. You’ll have plenty of time between "paddles up" to spot kingfishers, egrets, and monkeys along the banks.
• The Highlights: Frequent sightings of white-faced monkeys, egrets and toucans. A stop at a magnificent jungle waterfall accessible only by river and a traditional Costa Rican lunch at a local "rancho" after the run.
• Recommended For: Families with children, first-timers, and anyone who wants a full day immersed in pristine nature.

Intensity: Class III | IV | Vibe: High Energy | Technical

Rio Naranjo is located just inland from Quepos. It’s a steeper, faster, and more technical run than the Savegre. For those staying in Manuel Antonio who want a quick and intense hit of adrenaline the Rio Naranjo is your river.

• The Flow: The rapids are closer together with less flat water in between. It requires active paddling | quick reactions | and focus.
• The Highlights: The pure adrenaline of the Rio Naranjo section where the river narrows and the intensity spikes.
• The Season: This river is rain-fed and truly comes alive from May through November offering some of the best technical rafting in the region.
• Recommended For: Travelers seeking a half-day blast of excitement and those with a decent fitness level.

Intensity: Class IV | IV+ | Vibe: Extreme | Technical | Exclusive

This is the Holy Grail of local rafting. El Chorro is a tight, explosive run available only during the peak dry season (typically December through April) when water levels allow for safe passage through the narrow canyon.

• The Flow: This is not a "scenic float." It is a series of steep drops, narrow chutes, and continuous Class IV+ action. It demands synchronization with your guide and physical stamina.
• The Highlights: Navigating through deep, volcanic rock canyons that feel like another world. This is the most "exclusive" tour in the Tucanes lineup.
• Recommended For: Experienced rafters or high-energy adventurers looking for the most challenging whitewater in the Central Pacific.

• 30+ Years of Experience: We are the pioneers of adventure in Manuel Antonio with a safety record that is second to none.
• Professional Photography: Our specialized river photographers capture high-res shots of your biggest drops available for review and purchase at the end of your trip.
• Private Infrastructure: Unlike other operators, we utilize our own private ranch facilities for meals and changing areas, ensuring a clean, comfortable and authentic Costa Rican experience.

Expert Guides: Every raft is led by a certified, bilingual professional with safety kayakers trailing every group on higher-class runs.

To ensure you have the best day on the water, please come prepared with the following:

• Secure Water Shoes: Sandals with straps or old sneakers. No flip-flops (they will be lost to the river!).
• Sun Protection: Waterproof, biodegradable sunscreen and a rash guard.
• Dry Clothes: Bring a change of clothes and a towel for the shuttle ride back.
• Sense of Adventure: Leave your jewelry and non-waterproof cameras at the hotel, we’ve got the rest covered.

Choose Savegre if: You want a relaxing, scenic full day with Class II-III thrills for the whole family.

Choose Naranjo if: You are active, short on time and want a heart-pounding Class III-IV burst.

Choose El Chorro if: You are an experienced rafter visiting between January and May looking for the ultimate technical challenge.

Can’t choose just one experience? Try our Combo Tours! These are curated adventures that blend Costa Rica’s best highlights, from rafting and horseback riding to cooking classes and wildlife walks. Explore our popular Combo Tours like:

• Saddle & Paddle: Horseback riding and whitewater rafting
• Cultural Cultivation: Local Flavor Cooking & Chocolate Tour
• Combo: Manuel Antonio Park and Chocolate, Coffee & Vanilla Tour

These thoughtfully crafted tours let you experience multiple aspects of Costa Rica’s Central Pacific in one unforgettable day.