Costa Rica’s La Fortuna delivers three standout river safaris that let you glide peacefully through pristine rainforest. The best options float quietly on calm waters, perfect for spotting wildlife without engine noise. We particularly love the Peñas Blancas River Safari Float for its intimate 2-hour experience – you’ll often see caimans sunbathing and sloths hanging in nearby trees. The 3.5-hour La Fortuna Wildlife Float Tour offers excellent value, consistently delivering memorable monkey and iguana sightings. For families and first-timers, the Arenal River Safari Float earns top marks for its expert guides and nearly guaranteed wildlife encounters. Let’s explore these top-rated safari options.
Key Points
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The Peñas Blancas River Safari Float offers a 2-hour motorless boat tour with opportunities to spot wildlife like caimans, turtles, sloths, monkeys, and colorful birds.
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The La Fortuna Wildlife Safari Float Tour provides a 3.5-hour float through lush jungle landscapes, allowing visitors to see monkeys, iguanas, and birds guided by naturalists.
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The Safari Float and Wildlife Experience along the Arenal River features a maximum group size of 12, with air-conditioned transport, lunch, and boat safety gear.
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The Wildlife Safari Float by Inflatable Raft offers a 5-hour tour with a 2-hour river ride, providing opportunities to spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and more.
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The Kayak Safari on the Peñas Blancas River offers an intimate wildlife viewing experience in a small group setting, with round-trip hotel transfers, equipment, and snacks provided.
Peñas Blancas River Safari Float
For those seeking a tranquil and immersive jungle experience in La Fortuna, the Peñas Blancas River Safari Float is a popular choice.
This 2-hour tour takes visitors on a motorless boat along the Peñas Blancas River, providing opportunities to spot caimans, turtles, sloths, monkeys, and a variety of colorful birds.
The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, snacks, and a professional guide who offers commentary on the native flora and fauna.
With a maximum of 15 travelers, the experience is intimate and allows for minimal disturbance to the wildlife.
Reviewers praise the knowledgeable guides and common wildlife sightings, making this a family-friendly activity suitable for various ages and fitness levels.
Read our full review: Peñas Blancas River Safari Float Review
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La Fortuna Wildlife Safari Float Tour
The La Fortuna Wildlife Safari Float Tour offers an immersive and tranquil journey through the lush jungle landscape surrounding La Fortuna.
Over the course of 3.5 hours, adventurers float down the Peñas Blancas River, observing a variety of wildlife including monkeys, iguanas, and birds under the guidance of knowledgeable naturalists.
The tour is family-friendly and accommodates a maximum of 12 travelers, with round-trip transportation and snacks included.
While visibility of wildlife can vary, customer feedback highlights the expertise and friendliness of the guides, as well as the opportunity to experience the region’s natural wonders.
The tour concludes with a stop at a local farm for homemade treats, providing a well-rounded culture.
Read our full review: La Fortuna Wildlife Safari Float Tour Review
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Wildlife Safari Float by Inflatable Raft in Peñas Blancas River
Adventurers can embark on an immersive wildlife safari float down the Peñas Blancas River in La Fortuna. This 5-hour tour, with a 2-hour river ride, offers the chance to spot sloths, monkeys, toucans, and more.
Inflatable rafts provide a relaxed experience ideal for families. Knowledgeable guides enhance the adventure by pointing out hard-to-see wildlife and sharing insights about the local ecology.
Snacks, bottled water, and hotel pickup/drop-off are included. With a 98% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour consistently earns 5-star reviews for its organization, informative guides, and engaging activities.
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours beforehand, making it a flexible and reliable choice for nature lovers.
Read our full review: Wildlife Safari Float by Inflatable Raft in Peñas Blancas River Review
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Safari Float
The Safari Float offers an immersive wildlife experience along the Peñas Blancas River in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. This morning tour provides close encounters with animals like sloths, snakes, and birds.
Participants also enjoy a short hike to an organic farm, where they collect ingredients for a delicious Costa Rican lunch. Praised by 98% of travelers, the Safari Float holds a Badge of Excellence with a perfect 5.0 rating.
The tour includes hotel transfers, lunch, snacks, and towels. While some guests have reported disappointments, most highlight the relaxation, fun, and educational aspects of the experience, making it an excellent choice for nature lovers and families.
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Wildlife Safari Float by Kayak in Peñas Blancas River From Arenal
Setting out on a wildlife safari adventure, travelers can float down the Peñas Blancas River in La Fortuna, Costa Rica, by kayak.
This half-day tour offers the chance to spot crocodiles, lizards, sloths, and monkeys with the guidance of a naturalist. The tour includes kayak rentals, snacks, and a visit to a local ranch where visitors can experience Costa Rican coffee, sugar cane, and chocolate.
With a maximum group size of 29, the tour provides a personalized experience. While not recommended for travelers with back problems, the tour is accessible to most.
With an impressive 96% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this safari float is a must-try for nature enthusiasts visiting La Fortuna.
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Safari Float and Wild Life Experience in Arenal
Seeking an immersive wildlife encounter, visitors to La Fortuna, Costa Rica, can embark on the Safari Float and Wildlife Experience.
Operated by Caribbean Winds Costa Rica, this tour offers a 87-review, 99% traveler-recommended safari float along the Arenal river.
Travelers can expect a maximum group size of 12, air-conditioned transportation, boat safety gear, and a provided lunch.
The tour departs from the Balcón Arenal Restaurante y Sport Bar, with pickup available at select hotels for an additional fee.
While not recommended for those with back problems, most travelers can participate, with free cancellation and rescheduling options up to 24 hours prior.
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Pure Nature Safari Float
Visitors to La Fortuna, Costa Rica, can experience the Pure Nature Safari Float, an immersive eco-tour along the Arenal River.
This 5-star rated tour boasts a 98% traveler recommendation, with 45 total reviews. Participants enjoy hotel pickup, bottled water, snacks, and the expertise of a professional guide.
The tour departs from Jacamar Naturalist Tours, with additional pickup locations available. Priced from $101.70 per person, the Pure Nature Safari Float offers a scenic journey through the region’s lush natural landscapes.
Travelers highlight the informative and enjoyable experience, as well as the positive dining experience post-tour.
With a maximum group size of 15, this tour provides an intimate wildlife encounter in the heart of Costa Rica’s stunning Arenal region.
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2-in-1 Arenal Combo Tour: River Safari Float and La Fortuna Waterfall
The in-1 Arenal Combo Tour offers travelers an unparalleled opportunity to enjoy the natural wonders of the Arenal region. This half-day excursion combines a relaxing river safari float with a hike to the breathtaking La Fortuna Waterfall.
With a maximum of 8 travelers, this highly-rated tour (5.0 out of 42 reviews) provides a personalized experience led by knowledgeable guides. Highlights include wildlife sightings, a delicious lunch, and the chance to swim in the waterfall’s natural pools.
Suitable for all ages, the tour includes hotel pickup, park fees, and gratuities. Guests recommend bringing proper footwear, rain protection, and a camera to capture the incredible scenery and memorable moments.
Read our full review: 2-in-1 Arenal Combo Tour: River Safari Float and La Fortuna Waterfall Review
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Wildlife Safari Experience by Raft
What better way to take in the natural wonders of Costa Rica’s Peñas Blancas River than through the Wildlife Safari Experience by Raft?
This highly-rated 100% recommended tour offers a fantastic opportunity to spot howler monkeys, sloths, caimans, iguanas, and a variety of birds during a rafting adventure.
The tour includes pickup, a safety briefing, and a choice of double kayaks or rafts, all led by a certified guide.
Travelers can enjoy breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as life jackets, paddles, snacks, and pineapple.
With a maximum of 20 guests, this intimate experience ensures personalized attention and an unforgettable day in the Costa Rican wilderness.
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Safari Float, Fortuna Waterfall and Typical Lunch
For travelers seeking a more leisurely and immersive experience in La Fortuna, the Safari Float, Fortuna Waterfall and Typical Lunch tour offers a captivating blend of adventure and cultural discovery.
This well-reviewed 16-person tour takes guests on a peaceful safari float, allowing them to spot diverse wildlife like monkeys and toucans.
After a snack at a local farm, they’ll descend 500 stairs to the stunning La Fortuna Waterfall, where they can swim and relax.
The tour also includes an authentic Costa Rican lunch, showcasing the region’s delectable cuisine.
With knowledgeable and personable guides, this tour provides an engaging and immersive exploration of La Fortuna’s natural wonders and cultural heritage.
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Peñas Blancas River Safari Float From La Fortuna
Embarking on the Peñas Blancas River Safari Float from La Fortuna promises an immersive encounter with Costa Rica’s captivating natural wonders.
This half-day adventure takes travelers on a gentle float through a biodiverse rainforest, where they may spot sloths, turtles, monkeys, toucans, and even the occasional crocodile.
Led by a knowledgeable guide, the experience offers a chance to learn about the local flora and fauna.
Priced from $73 per person, the tour accommodates up to 20 travelers and includes hotel pickup, snacks, and transportation.
While not wheelchair accessible, the moderate activity level makes it suitable for most families with children.
With an impressive 4.5-star rating, the Peñas Blancas River Safari Float delivers a relaxing and rewarding wildlife experience.
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Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak
Travelers can enjoy Costa Rica’s lush natural wonders through the Wildlife Safari Experience by Kayak in La Fortuna.
Located at the meeting point of Calypso Adventures Costa Rica, the activity takes guests on a paddling journey to spot diverse wildlife like howler monkeys, sloths, and iguanas.
The tour includes private transportation, all necessary equipment, and a provided lunch. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for moderately fit travelers, with a maximum group size of 20.
Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and the chance to observe flora and fauna away from crowds, though some report issues with cancellations.
Priced from $83 per person, the safari offers a unique immersive experience in Costa Rica’s natural wonders.
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Kayak Safari
Frequently, Kayak Safari offers an intimate kayaking experience on the Penas Blancas River in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Participants learn about local wildlife and landscapes while kayaking in a small group setting, enhancing the experience and keeping costs down.
Travelers can expect to see monkeys, iguanas, birds, and more. The tour includes round-trip hotel transfers, kayaks and safety equipment, Costa Rican snacks, and a knowledgeable naturalist guide.
Kayak Safari operates Monday through Sunday, 8 AM to 1 PM, with a maximum of 6 travelers. It’s wheelchair accessible and offers infant seats.
With a 5.0 rating from 11 reviews and a 100% recommendation rate, Kayak Safari provides a relaxing and wildlife-filled adventure.
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Safari Tour Along the Peñas Blancas River
Guests embark on a captivating safari tour along the Peñas Blancas River in La Fortuna, Costa Rica. Priced from €67.38 per person, this tour provides a Badge of Excellence and boasts a 100% recommendation rate from 17 travelers.
Equipped with life jackets and snacks, guests enjoy private transportation to the river. With a maximum of 25 travelers, the tour offers a personalized experience.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most participants, including infants who can sit on laps.
Travelers can benefit from free cancellation up to 24 hours before the experience and the option to reserve now and pay later.
Read our full review: Safari Tour Along the Peñas Blancas River Review
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Safety Precautions for the Safari Tours?
Safety is paramount on safari tours. Operators provide comprehensive safety briefings, ensure proper equipment, and enforce guidelines to minimize risks. Guides are trained in first aid and emergency procedures. Participants must follow instructions to have a safe and enjoyable experience.
Can Children Participate in the Safari Tours?
Yes, children can typically participate in safari tours. Most operators welcome families and offer activities suitable for all ages. However, it’s best to check the specific age requirements and safety precautions before booking a tour for young children.
Are There Any Restrictions on What I Can Bring?
There may be restrictions on what you can bring on safari tours. It’s best to check with the tour operator ahead of time to ensure you pack only the essentials and comply with any rules or guidelines.
How Long Do the Safari Tours Typically Last?
Safari tours typically last 2-4 hours, depending on the specific tour. Many offer half-day and full-day options, allowing visitors to explore the local wildlife and landscapes at their preferred pace.
What Should I Wear for the Safari Tours?
When going on a safari tour, it’s best to wear comfortable, lightweight clothing that can protect you from the sun and elements. Closed-toe shoes, a hat, and layers are also recommended to ensure you’re prepared for the outdoor adventure.
The Sum Up
La Fortuna offers a variety of safari tours on the Peñas Blancas River, providing visitors the chance to spot diverse wildlife. Whether floating on an inflatable raft or kayaking, these tours offer an immersive experience in the region’s lush natural environment. Travelers can choose from several operators and tour options to find the best fit for their interests and budget.