Combine a hands-on North Arenal farm visit with a three-hour rafting run on the Balsa River. This single-day combo delivers farm-to-table culture in the morning and class II–III river adrenaline in the afternoon.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
You push off into the Balsa River and the current takes the lead—water catching the sun, chords of splash and shout filling the gorge. Hours earlier you moved through a small working farm north of La Fortuna, hands in soil, tasting coconut water and frying a snack with ingredients you helped harvest. The day trades the hush of rural life for the clean, mechanical roar of rapids.
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
6–7 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels; you should be comfortable getting in and out of a raft and able to follow brief safety instructions.
Wildlife
History
The Arenal area developed rapidly after the volcano's mid-20th-century activity; fertile volcanic soils encouraged small-scale farming that still supplies local eateries.
Conservation
Operators emphasize low-impact practices—stick to trails at the farm, avoid feeding wildlife, and use reef-safe sunscreen to reduce chemical runoff into rivers.
Reserve your spot on the Arenal Combo Feelings: Adrenaline Rafting & Monkey Farm Experience today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a waterproof bag
Protect your phone and wallet during the rafting leg—guides may have dry storage but a small waterproof pouch keeps essentials safe.
Wear secure footwear
Closed-toe sandals or neoprene water shoes work for both farm work and river landings; avoid loose flip-flops.
Arrive hydrated and fed
Breakfast is included, but bring a small water bottle to sip before rafting to avoid dehydration in the tropical heat.
Listen to the safety briefing
Guides run through paddle technique and what to do in a flip—attentive guests stay safer and enjoy the run more.
Quick-dry clothing
Dries fast after splashes and is comfortable during both farm and river sections.
Water shoes or sturdy sandals
Protects feet on river rocks and during farm tasks.
Waterproof pouch for phone/ID
Keeps valuables dry during rafting and rainy weather.
Light rain shell
Useful during Costa Rica's wet season when afternoon showers are common.
summer