Riding the Rapids: A Day on the Balsa River

When the waves are calm and the ocean takes a breather, I find myself drawn to the rivers of Costa Rica, where the thrill of white water rafting offers a different kind of rush. Recently, I traded my surfboard for a paddle and embarked on an exhilarating journey down the Balsa River, a Class III & IV white water rafting adventure that promised excitement, nature, and a taste of local culture.

The day began with a pickup from Arenal Springs, where I joined a group of fellow adventurers, including families with kids as young as 12. Our guides, a friendly and professional crew, briefed us on what to expect as we made our way to the river. The journey was already off to an interesting start when our bus came to a sudden halt to assist a sloth crossing the road—a quintessential Costa Rican moment that set the tone for the day.

Conquering the Rapids

Once at the river, we were divided into small groups, each with a private guide. The rapids were just the right mix of challenging and fun, providing enough thrill without being overwhelming. As someone who thrives on the adrenaline of catching a perfect wave, I found the rapids to be a refreshing change of pace. The guides were experts, their instructions clear and reassuring, ensuring that everyone felt safe and confident.

Midway through our journey, we paused to enjoy fresh pineapple and watermelon, a sweet interlude that allowed us to soak in the surrounding beauty. The second half of the trip was more relaxed, with fewer rapids and more opportunities to spot wildlife. Our guide pointed out sloths, iguanas, and a variety of birds, turning the rafting experience into an impromptu nature tour.

A Taste of Costa Rica

After the rafting, we were treated to a delicious organic lunch at a local restaurant with stunning views of the Arenal Volcano. The meal was a delightful spread of traditional Costa Rican dishes, a perfect way to refuel after a morning on the river. Following lunch, we explored the gardens at the company’s base, learning about local plants and fruits.

The highlight of the cultural insight was a demonstration of sugar cane extraction. Watching the process and tasting the fresh sugar cane juice was a sweet ending to an already amazing adventure. As we made our way back to La Fortuna, I couldn’t help but reflect on the day’s experiences. The Balsa River had offered not just the thrill of the rapids but also a deeper connection to the natural and cultural richness of Costa Rica.

For those looking to add a splash of adventure to their Costa Rican journey, I highly recommend Balsa River Rafting. It’s a day well spent, blending excitement, nature, and culture in a way that only Costa Rica can offer.