Explore Jungle Rivers, Secret Beaches, and Ocean Caves
Costa Rica is a paddler’s paradise, where jungle-lined rivers meet the Pacific and Caribbean coasts. Whether you’re exploring tranquil mangroves, tackling whitewater rapids, or gliding along tropical coastlines, kayaking offers one of the best ways to experience the country’s wild beauty.
Here are 10 of the top kayaking tour companies offering unforgettable river and sea kayaking adventures in Costa Rica.
1. Tico Tours Guanacaste – Playa del Coco
Location: Guanacaste Province
Type: Sea kayaking
Services: Guided tours, snorkeling add-ons
Why Go: Explore the calm, turquoise waters of the Pacific with a guide who knows all the best snorkeling spots and hidden beaches.
2. Tortuguero Adventures – Tortuguero
Location: Tortuguero National Park
Type: River kayaking through rainforest canals
Services: Wildlife guides, sunrise/sunset paddles
Why Go: Paddle silently through narrow jungle canals and watch toucans, monkeys, and even caimans in their natural habitat.
3. Rios Adventure Travel – Pacuare River
Location: Near Turrialba
Type: Whitewater river kayaking
Services: Multi-day expeditions, gear rental, lodging
Why Go: Known for their world-class guides and eco-lodges, this is the top choice for serious kayakers seeking rapids and rainforest.
4. Bahía Aventuras – Uvita
Location: Marino Ballena National Park
Type: Sea kayaking
Services: Marine wildlife tours, whale-watching add-ons
Why Go: Paddle near whales, dolphins, and coastal cliffs in one of Costa Rica’s most biologically rich marine reserves.
5. Go! Adventures – La Fortuna / Arenal
Location: Northern Lowlands
Type: Lake and river kayaking
Services: Lake Arenal kayaking, river wildlife tours
Why Go: Enjoy calm paddling with a view of the majestic Arenal Volcano, with birdwatching and tropical scenery all around.
6. Kayak Jaco – Playa Agujas & Isla Damas
Location: Central Pacific
Type: Sea and mangrove kayaking
Services: Bi-lingual naturalist guides, wildlife spotting
Why Go: Choose between ocean adventure and tranquil mangrove tunnels full of monkeys and exotic birds.
7. Aqua Center – Playa Samara
Location: Nicoya Peninsula
Type: Sea kayaking
Services: Guided tours, snorkeling gear, sunset paddles
Why Go: Peaceful beach vibes and gentle waves make this perfect for first-time kayakers.
8. Exploradores Outdoors – Caribbean Side Rivers
Location: Based in Siquirres
Type: River kayaking
Services: Multi-day tours, equipment, certified guides
Why Go: Great option for those seeking off-the-beaten-path whitewater experiences on remote rivers.
9. Kayaking Tamarindo – Tamarindo Estuary
Location: Tamarindo, Guanacaste
Type: Estuary kayaking
Services: Wildlife tours, private group options
Why Go: Paddle through protected mangroves and spot crocodiles, herons, and howler monkeys—perfect for nature lovers.
10. Drake Bay Adventures – Osa Peninsula
Location: Corcovado area
Type: Coastal and river kayaking
Services: Guided eco-tours, dolphin-watching, island tours
Why Go: Venture into some of the most untouched coastal rainforests in Costa Rica by kayak.
Tips for Kayaking in Costa Rica
- Best Time to Go: Dry season (December to April) for ocean kayaking; rainy season (May to November) for river thrills.
- What to Bring: Waterproof sunscreen, quick-dry clothing, hat, water shoes, and a GoPro.
- Wildlife You Might See: Sloths, crocodiles, toucans, monkeys, dolphins, sea turtles, and more.
Ready to Paddle Through Paradise?
Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, these kayaking tour companies offer something unforgettable. From serene jungle canals to waves that lead to coral reefs, kayaking in Costa Rica is an epic adventure waiting to happen.
Book your kayak tour now and dive into Costa Rica’s wild side.