Just wondering if anyone can comment on the Balsa half day class II/III rafting versus the Rio Tenorio river Class III/VI rafting. Have rafted twice before in the states on the East Coast but not in years but try to keep in shape. Looking for an adventure and read that Balsa is a bit serene...have heard the 13 ft drop on the Rio Tenorio river can be "walked" around if you are not up for the challenge..Any suggestions would be great. We are in our mid to late forties...thanks.
White water rafting
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We haven't done either of those, but I'd recommend Rios Tropicales if you're looking for a rafting company. We used them for the Sarapiqui and really enjoyed it. The most popular river to raft is the Pacuare. Gets rave reviews if you want to explore that one.
I recommend you Rio Balsa if you really like the adventure. It is one of the most beautiful rivers in Costa Rica, However if you are looking for huge adrenaline and adventure you should move to the Atlantic area of Costa Rica. There is Pacuare River ,a top river in the world for the practice of Whitewater Rafting. Rios Tropicales is the best company operating in this river. Here is a link with extra info about Balsa River : http://valledoradotours.cr/en/rio-balsa-rafting.html. Hope this information help you!!
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We've done the Pacure and Rio Tenorio, as well as several rivers in the US. Rio Tenorio was the only river where we fell out of the raft - repeatedly. We were one of only two groups that were put in a small raft with just the guide, however, and no-one got hurt. It was terrifying, but loads of fun. Ironically, the rapid with the 13-foot drop-off we handled just fine! Water conditions (the river was low) may have played a part, but for adrenaline rush and adventure, I'd have to put the Rio Tenorio at the head of the pack.
We got tossed out twice on the Sarapiqui. It has a rep for being more calm, but I guess a lot of it depends on rainfall.
I haven't personally rafted either. So I don't have any first hand advice.
But it is important to know that the US and Canada use their own scale for rating whitewater. It is different than the rest of the world.
This isn't exact. But figure that North American rivers are rated roughly a grade higher than they would be elsewhere. So a class IV in the US, is a class III in Costa Rica. The Tenorio would probably be rated a IV to V in the US.
I get customers all the time that tell me that they have little rafting experience, but have run a class V. That is a US V.
The rafting companies in Costa Rica won't let you just show up, and run a class V. Unless you are a pro or a professional guide, and can prove it. Then it is usually by kayak.
Keep this in mind when booking. Ya gotta compare apples and apples.
I hope this helps. Let me know if I can offer any further advice.
Warm Regards,
Pat Hewitt
Travel Professional