Raft the cleanest river in Central America. Class II-III rapids, hidden waterfalls and incredible views of the rainforest — leaving straight from the lodge.
The Savegre River runs clean from the Talamanca mountain range, and Rafiki is the only lodge with direct access to its rapids. It's a class II-III run: exciting for beginners and families, with calm pools between rapids to soak in the scenery.
The adventure starts with a 5km 4x4 drive through our private reserve, with wildlife interpretation along the way. After rafting, we hike to a spring-fed waterfall to swim and cool off before heading back to the lodge for a hot lunch.
Water stays between 25-27°C year round, with rounded rocks and no undercuts — ideal for anyone comfortable in the water and in good physical shape.
White water rafting is a great family activity but it does have inherit risks. Guests that want to participate should be comfortable in water and be in good physical condition. Kids 6 and up can participate in rafting tours with certain exceptions depending on water levels.
Level: Class II-III. River Temps: 77-81 ℉ahrenheit, 25-27 ℃elsius. Characteristics: Short rapids with big pools, Rounds rocks with no undercuts, Unpolluted water, tropical temperature. Water levels: High water typically from late April through November, Low water from December to April, Tours are possible all year long.
The rafting trip starts from the main lodge. First you will embark on a 5km 4×4 safari drive through our private wilderness reserve, the guides will interpret the flora and fauna of the area along the way.
Rafiki's guides are licensed by the Costa Rican Tourism association. In order to get licenses, guides have to go through rigorous set of courses including, first aide, CPR and Swift Water Rescue. We are proud to use and train guides from the local community. Our staff has over 20 years experience and know the river like the back of their paddles!
Before embarking not the trip, you will be given helmets, life jackets and paddles. You will then get a safety talk and learn the commands necessary so you and your team can navigate the river.
Rafting shoes (Tevas, Keens, watershoes, etc.), Long sleeve shirt (synthetic fabrics keep the sun off and dry off quickly), Suscreen (waterproof is preferred!)
Right from the start, the Savegre River will get you wet. Not only will the adrenaline be pumping, you will also enjoy pristine tropical forest scenery along the way. The rapids are created by the cleanest water in Central America washing over polished round river rocks to create perfect class II-III rapids.
After making your way down the river through Rafiki's reserve, you will arrive to Quebrada Arroyo. You will take a short hike to see an amazing spring fed waterfall. You will get to swim, face paint with clay, have your family portrait taken, or simply sit in awe under the thundering falls. We will serve you a snack to keep energy levels at their maximum!
After the waterfall, there are still plenty of nice rapids, gradually the valley widens and beautiful panoramas unfold. The current slows down allowing for some truly world class lazy river time. You will be able to jump in and float down the current in between the rapids. Eventually you will end up at the take out where our 4×4 safari truck will take you back up the lodge for a hot lunch. Afternoon trips have lunch before departure.
Price includes lunch and the 13% Costa Rica sales tax. Transportation is not included, but can be arranged if you are not staying the night with us. Signing up for a package saves you money on activities and lodging!
"Family of 5, highly recommend a driver arranged by Rafiki. Staff is lovely, cabins are fun and large, hike starting from Rafiki crosses three waterfalls. Surrounding trails are very well maintained fauna and flora of this jungle environment are best in class. The bar is lovely and the daiquiris delicious. The food has been excellent and adult and kid friendly The rafting was life changing and the guides are amazing. Highest level recommendation for this family of 5 from Seattle!!!"
Check availability for your rafting day or add it to a full package.
