Whitewater Rafting on the Río Pacuare
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The Río Pacuare traverses the virgin rain forest. descending from the eastern flanks of the mountains to the Caribbean coastal plain. The river as rated as one of the world's most scenic wild rivers. Our raft trip was about 27 km long over Class III and IV rapids. The area is inhabited by an indigenous tribe but is otherwise free of human intervention. |
| IAU provide a professional guide in each raft who has navigated the river many times. All participants are outfitted with a helmet and life vest. Everyone is instructed in the basic commands so that everyone in the raft will function as a team as they paddle through the rapids. |  |
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Costa Rican food is excellent. Our time on the river will be no exception. The IAU guides also double as gourmet chefs, preparing a delicious floatable feast of tropical fruits. |
| Numerous waterfalls cascade into the Pacuare from the surrounding cliffs. The rocks exposed along the way are all Neogene volcanic strata. This is the best opportunity to examine Costa Rica's early volcanic history. |  |
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There are plenty of opportunities to swim in the warm clear water. This group is diving off of a Pliocene hyaloclastite, while an IAU kayaker stands off to the left. |
| The rapids are fast and fun. The river is deep. If anyone falls out, just hold your breath and you'll float safely through the fast water to your waiting companions in the pool below. |  |
PHOTOS
Volcanoes The Caribbean Coast Río Pacuare Rafting Costa Rican Fauna
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