We're finally leaving on December 10th and have everything set. Thanks to all of you for your invaluable advice!

We are booked with Aventuras Naturales for a one day rafting trip on Rio Pacuare and are considering chickening out after reading about some of your hair-raising adventures. My question is this: How high is the water likely to be at this time of year? How dangerous is it? It sounds like there's a pretty good chance of being tossed in. We don't mind that in and of itself but are wondering what the likelihood is of actually getting hurt. My husband and I are 60, reasonably fit but a bit overweight. Although we've rafted before neither of us are particularly skilled at it. If we cancel, we'll probably go rafting in Arenal with Desafio tours instead. I know it's a lot tamer and not nearly as scenic. We've really been looking forward to Rio Pacuare as a trip highlight. We'll be disappointed to cancel but don't want to be foolhardy. We're torn! Any advice?

DO NOT cancel the Pacuare trip. Outfitters are very safety conscious (we went with Rios Tropicales) and the water and scenery are spectacular. Last I heard they were thinking of damming the river which would ruin the ride so go while you can ...

I did a trip on the Rio Pacuare a month ago and it was fine. Not dangerous at all. In fact there was one part of the river with a fallen tree and the guides took a very conservative approach and we walked around it. The one thing you may want to do to ease your mind is find out the class of the rapids you will be encountering during the trip. I say this b/c I believe that there may be several differing options on the river. I took the class three trip and that level should be fine for you.

As for the river level at the time of your trip, you just have to realize that the river can change from day to day. You are with a good company so hopefully you can trust their judgment.

Finally, I agree with msr3017 that you should not cancel the trip. Some things in nature cannot be micro-planned and that's why they call them "adventures" and as far as "adventures" goes, this one is pretty safe. But that pretty much sums up traveling in Costa Rica: It feels like an adventure, but it is really very safe.

msr3017 & Ron_R - Thank you both. You've helped me decide to do what I've wanted to do all along. We're going! I'll post a trip report when we're back and let you know how it went.

Good for you Bernice!! The Pacuare River Rafting is one of my many most memorable adventures in CR.

We too took the Class 3/4 trip, this was my very first rafting experience. I am certain the raft still has my foot and hand imprints LOL. FABULOUS day!