Costa Rica

Paddles and Pedals

Mountain Biking, Sea Kayaking and Whitewater Rafting

(9 Days)

Slide Show

Adventure enthusiasts, this one's for you! Rafts, hiking boots, kayaks and mountain bikes are the tools for this adrenaline-pumping escape. Launching in rafts on the Pacuare River, we descend a series of thrilling stair-stepping swells that cut through a deep canyon and virgin rainforest. We travel to Arenal Volcano to hike below the smoldering cone. Then switch to sea kayaks to paddle Lake Arenal and eventually, the Pacific Ocean. The journey concludes on mountain bikes, riding gritty gravel roads that wind towards the beach town of Samara.

Trip Highlights

• 2 day Whitewater Rafting trip blasting down the Pacuare River
• Soaking in steamy hotsprings at the base of Arenal Volcano
• Sea Kayaking and biking along the coastline of the Pacific Ocean

Detailed Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival San Jose

A BikeHike Adventures representative will welcome you at the airport and transfer you to a comfortable hotel in San Jose. Here we will go over the trip and answer any questions or concerns. There are no planned activities today, so you are free to explore the sights of San Jose.

Day 2: Pacuare River (Whitewater Rafting)

The adventure begins with a scenic drive along the foothills of the Irazu and Turrialba volcanoes to the put in on the Pacuare River. After an instructional session on the river journey, we set off for two days of thrilling whitewater adventure, running 25 km/16 miles of class III-IV rapids through a magnificent river valley. Late in the afternoon we arrive at our home for the night, El Nido del Tigre, a comfortable campsite situated on the riverbank. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the rainforest by foot or simply relax in a hammock to the echoes of the river. (B,L,D)

Day 3: Pacuare River (Whitewater Rafting)

Our Pacuare River journey continues as we float through a spectacular canyon with waterfalls that cascade out of the 200 foot limestone walls. En route, we take time out to scramble over some rocks to a section of natural water slides. For the thrill seekers, there is an opportunity to cliff jump into a deep pool 20 feet below. The heart of the rapids come this afternoon with a series of class IV rapids that are sure to keep you on the edge of your seat. We take out near the town of Siquirres and we drive to the Arenal Volcano. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B,L)

Day 4: Arenal Volcano (Hiking and Hot Springs)

Activities today will depend on the weather and the group. If the weather is clear we can kayak across Lake Arenal at the base of the volcano. Sea kayaking in the shadow of the volcano to the far side of the lake takes approximately 3 hours and gives us unique views of the volcano. From there the bike ride back to La Fortuna gives another perspective to the majestic volcano. On days that are not so clear the sea kayaking portion can be substituted for hiking. One of the hiking routes takes us to the active side of the volcano and to a lava flow from a major 1992 eruption. We hike through tropical rainforest until we reach a wall of lava rock where we scramble up on top of the lava to appreciate the power and size of Arenal. This is the safest, closest place to the active volcano. There are also routes to the 120ft La Fortuna Waterfall with a chance for a refreshing swim in its natural pool. We end the day with a visit to the Hot Springs. The waters are heated by the lava from the volcano which is a welcome relaxation after the activities of the first few days. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B,L)

Day 5: Lake Arenal to Samara (Sea Kayaking and Mountain Biking)

This morning we move to the Pacific Coast. Depending on timing, we either bike the last part of the journey along the coastline to the town of Samara which is a great place to complete our travels and base ourselves for the next few days. In the afternoon we will kayak in the Pacific Ocean, making our way out to the deserted island of Isla Chora where we'll stop for some snorkeling. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B,L)

Days 6-7: Pacific Ocean (Mountain Biking, Sea Kayaking, Canopy Touring)

The next two days will be a mixture of different activities. The Pacific Ocean along this coastline is perfect for sea kayaking, the surrounding area has brilliant and challenging mountain biking routes that meander inland and back to the coast. In addition the snorkeling just off the coastline is worth checking out. You will have the choice of activities with the group or if you prefer to spend some quality personal time, our mountain bikes will be available for you to take your own relaxed route. Your guide will be available to discuss the possibilities according to the weather and personal choice. For those who would like to experience the freedom of zip lines through the canopy of the rainforest, just mention this to us either before you arrive in Costa Rica or early on during your trip and we can make arrangements for you. (Price for the canopy is not included in the overall price). For those who want to end their trip with some relaxation, Samara is a very laid back town with the perfect atmosphere to just chill out, enjoy the beach, the hotel and some of the most spectacular sunsets you will ever see. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B,L)

Day 8: Samara to San Jose

This morning is free to spend a few more hours enjoying the surf of the Pacific Coast. Midday back to San Jose by vehicle. The evening is free in Costa Rica's capital city to do some last minute shopping, relaxing or having a cold pint on a restaurant patio, watching the local life pass you by. Overnight in a comfortable hotel. (B)

Day 9: Departure

A BikeHike Adventures representative will transfer you back to the international airport for your return flight home.(B)

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