Exploradores Outdoors
Rating
Family of 4
USD 300-440 for a family of 4 on a guided rafting day tour (approx USD 75-110 per person)
Duration
Half-day to full-day
Best Ages
8-17
About
Exploradores Outdoors is a well-established adventure tour operator based in San Jose, Costa Rica, specializing in white-water rafting and outdoor adventures. Their booking office sits in the Otoya neighborhood, convenient to most San Jose hotels, and they operate guided day tours to some of Costa Rica's most spectacular rivers — including the world-class Pacuare.
For families with older kids and teens, a guided rafting day tour through Exploradores is one of the most memorable things you can do in Costa Rica. The Pacuare River winds through untouched rainforest, offering Class III-IV rapids alongside stunning gorge scenery and wildlife sightings. The professional, bilingual guides handle all safety equipment and briefings, making it accessible even for first-time rafters.
Day tours typically include transportation from San Jose, all safety equipment, professional guides, and meals. The experience usually runs from early morning to late afternoon. Minimum ages vary by river and water level — confirm when booking. Kids 8 and older who are comfortable in the water and with physical activity are typically eligible for the gentler Reventazon sections.
This is a splurge for a family of 4 — budget around USD 300-440 total — but for adventure-seeking families, it ranks among the top Costa Rica experiences money can buy.
Age Suitability
Parent Logistics
Kid Meals
Meals included on guided day tours
Setting
Rainy Day
Not ideal
Plan Your Visit
Best Time to Visit
Dry season (December-April) for best white-water conditions; rainy season (May-November) for higher river flow
Wait Times
Minimal with advance booking
Nearby Food
Lunch is typically included on full-day tours. The San Jose booking office is in the Otoya neighborhood near various restaurants and cafes.
Why Kids Love It
Exploradores Outdoors is one of Costa Rica's top-rated adventure tour operators, offering white-water rafting on the Pacuare and Reventazon rivers from their San Jose booking office. Older kids and teens love the adrenaline rush of Class III-IV rapids, the lush rainforest scenery, and the wildlife spotting along the river banks. The guides are trained, bilingual, and excellent with family groups.
Pro Tips from Parents
- The Pacuare River is considered one of the top 10 rafting rivers in the world — the scenery alone is worth the trip.
- Minimum age for white-water rafting is typically 8-12 depending on the river and water level — confirm with operators when booking.
- Meals and transportation from San Jose are typically included in day tour packages.
- Secure cameras and phones in waterproof bags provided by the guides.
What to Bring
- Swimsuit and quick-dry clothing
- Closed-toe water sandals or old sneakers
- Sunscreen (reef-safe preferred)
- Small waterproof bag for valuables
- Change of clothes for after
Cost Info
Estimated Cost (Family of 4)
USD 300-440 for a family of 4 on a guided rafting day tour (approx USD 75-110 per person)
Tips to Save
- Book directly through Exploradores Outdoors website rather than through hotel concierge to avoid markups.
- Book in advance during high season (Dec-Apr).
Hours & Contact
Hours
- Friday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Monday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Sunday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Tuesday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Saturday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Thursday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM
- Wednesday
- 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM