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Destination: Costa Rica

Pura Vida Paddling

The close of paddling season here in the Southeast signals the beginning of the paddling season in Central America, and there's no place we'd rather spend our winters than Costa Rica, where the water, weather and people are all warm and inviting.

Located just 10 degrees north of the Equator, Costa Rica offers whitewater for every skill level. Of course, it's often difficult to focus on the whitewater when you're paddling through lush rainforests, jungle canyons dotted with waterfalls and manicured fields of sugarcane, bananas and pineapples. Costa Rica is home to more species of birds and mammals than the United States and Canada combined. The river corridors teem with life: Rainbow colored toucans and parrots stand like sentinels above the eddies, strawberry and lime colored frogs play amongst orchids and monkeys shout their encouragement as you challenge whitewater features.

As the sun sets, settle into lodging on the banks of the river. Let the hot springs at the base of the towering Arenal Volcano soothe your tired muscles. Stretch out in a hammock and watch hummingbirds and butterflies on colorful flowers. Sip a cool drink mixed with fresh fruit before retreating to your bungalow to be lulled asleep by the whispers of the Sarapiqui River.

Costa Rica has a river for everyone. At any skill level, you can expect to paddle multiple rivers in different parts of the country, water-permitting.