Although you can not only enjoy rafting on the Balsa River, there are also other activities such as hiking through the jungle, visits to waterfalls, visits to hot springs, and much more. It is still one of the best experiences for adrenaline lovers. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women or people with heart problems; however, it is safe and rewarding.

Balsa River: fascinating animals and adventure await you

At the beginning of the adventure in Balsa River, the tour guides will review the instructions and safety regulations. They will also explain how to use all the rafting equipment and start the adventure. Next, they will wear your life jacket and helmet and paddle you.

This great experience will last approximately two hours. In this, you can observe the beautiful forests and the life of fascinating animals in their natural environment—toucans, monkeys, sloths, frogs, fish, peculiar birds, butterflies, and many more. There will be tropical fruit breaks that will recharge your energy to continue the tour.

You will always have a guide by your side who will guide you with the best views so you get everything. In this way, any doubt will be clarified. At the end of the adrenaline-filled trip, you can enjoy Costa Rican foods, fruits, drinks, and delicious snacks you will love. This will be the most challenging walk to have fun with nature and your family!

If it will be your first tour, don’t be alarmed; some people will guide and advise you. You will know the best security techniques. You will not regret living the most exuberant experience of your life. It is not highly recommended for people over 65 or with any medical problem.

Is the Balsa River route safe?

It is a safe tour with a guide who supervises your trip. According to experts, the raft river conditions and the water volume allow rafting to be practiced without significant risks. However, if any abnormality occurs, evacuation teams keep any emergency that may arise under control.

If water levels vary due to rain, it becomes more challenging but still safe. The best thing is that there are no crocodiles in the Balsa River. Each raft has a maximum capacity of 9 people that should not be exceeded. If you fall from the raft, follow the guide’s instructions to return to the raft as quickly as possible. What does the tour include?

The trip includes a tour with transportation from your hotel, with return included. It has bilingual guides, fruit and typical food services, and a photographer who will capture all your expressions. Likewise, the tour guides will explain topics such as crops, harvests, and plant production in Costa Rica, and in addition, they will teach you how to extract juice from a cane in a traditional way.

The trip promises an unforgettable experience that includes Wi-Fi throughout the entire route and a towel and raincoat combo. Besides, you will also have professional lifeguard equipment and a helmet placed on you at the beginning of the tour. And if there needed to be more, they offer an organized package worth enjoying with bathrooms and changing rooms.

Children can enter from 8 years of age at a special rate until they are 10 years old. And the search times at your hotel will be announced in the reservations. This tour provides everything you need on the tour. It offers an exciting trip with a van back to your hotel for greater comfort. Take advantage of this opportunity with the best prices.

Tips to take into account

It is essential that you get, for your tour, the following implements that will be useful on your adventure. They will allow you a more comfortable, safe, and worry-free trip:

• Put on shoes suitable for wet areas, such as tennis shoes or ankle boots.
• Swimsuits or clothing that can get wet.
• Bring extra clothes to change at the end of the tour.
• Use a waterproof camera to take photos, but remember that the package includes a photographer.
• Use sunblock.
• Bring bath towels.
• Sunglasses (optional).
• Hat if needed.

You must make sure to bring with you the most essential things to enjoy your experience entirely. Your heart will jump with adrenaline, and you will have the best rafting experience in Costa Rica; you will not regret it.

Requirements and refunds

To live this experience, you need to meet the following requirements. Since it is an extreme sport that includes the closest adventure to nature, full of turbulence and euphoria. The requirements are:

• Be over eight and under 65 years of age.
• Not be pregnant or suspect it.
• Not have recent medical operations or severe health problems.
• Not suffer from heart disease.
• Have at least average physical condition.
• Make payment in advance of the tour.
• Obey the safety regulations and attend the advice and orientation before getting on the raft.
• Make sure you have complete safety equipment before starting.

Requesting a refund must be done one day before the tour without exception. But, in case of unfavorable weather changes, the tour can be canceled. You are even invited to change the day if that is your preference. But if you still insist on needing a cancellation, you will have to make sure of all the security policies to obtain it.

La entrada Balsa River: enjoy the thrill of rafting and more se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

Time to Take the Family on a Trip to Costa Rica – Make Mine Worry-Free, please!

A recent report on CNN highlighted that 84% of Americans prioritize spending quality time with family and friends during vacations. Recognizing this, we invite you to embark on a family adventure in Costa Rica!

Costa Rica Travel – Known as the safest place in Central America, Costa Rica offers political stability and economic security. Immerse yourself in the country’s theme, “Pura Vida” or Pure Life, fostering a strong sense of bonding in this natural paradise.

At Desafio, we aim to tailor-fit your itinerary, understanding the unique motivations of each family member. Our commitment is to provide an authentic experience, and our Cooking Class with a Local Costa Rican Family is a must-try for an interactive, bonding experience.

Choose from various adventure activities suitable for all ages. Whether it’s a heart-pounding Class 3-4 rafting tour on the Pacuare River, a family-friendly Whitewater & Wildlife Class 2-3 Rafting adventure on Rio Balsa, or a laid-back Monkeyboat Safari Float, everyone in your family will have captivating stories to share.

For those inclined towards other adventures, we offer zip-lining, hanging bridge walks, and exhilarating canyoneering tours, ensuring there’s something for everyone.

Explore historical sites and national parks, such as the iconic Arenal Volcano, and La Fortuna Waterfall, providing opportunities to witness diverse wildlife.

Include relaxation in your itinerary, visiting family-friendly destinations like La Fortuna, Monteverde, Playa Samara, and beyond. Don’t miss out on our Dolphin Seafari Snorkeling tour or Stand Up Paddling to a remote, deserted island!

Families have shared their willingness to invest in once-in-a-lifetime, all-inclusive trips for worry-free vacations and lasting memories. At Desafio, we specialize in crafting worry-free experiences. We handle all aspects, from tours and transport to delicious international-style meals, tracking specific requirements through our easy online reservations system.

Whether you’re a traditional family or a multi-generational one, let us create the perfect Costa Rica Family Vacation for you!

La entrada Ultimate Costa Rica Family Vacation Guide: CNN-Approved Adventures and Pura Vida Bliss se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

NEW OPERATION IN SARAPIQUÍ

Explore the versatility of the Sarapiquí River, one of Costa Rica’s most popular and diverse rivers. Nestled adjacent to the San Juan La Selva and Braulio Carrillo biological corridor, this river boasts an impressive biodiversity of flora and fauna.

• NEW!! Full Day Rafting Class 3-4: Experience 2 hours of thrilling rafting surrounded by the jungle, starting from San Miguel and culminating at our restaurant and operations center, Red Eyed Frog in El Roble.
• Rafting Class 2-3: From La Virgen to El Roble, recommended for ages between 8 and 65.
• NEW!! Jungle Safari Float Sarapiquí: Begin at Jacaré, accompanied by a naturalist guide, and finish with a delightful lunch.

Adventure Connections & One-Day Tours from San José: The Sarapiquí River offers versatile options with various classes of rapids and interesting activities in the lush rainforest. From extreme rafting to bicycle tours, pineapple, chocolate, waterfall tours, birdwatching, among others. After each tour, clients can enjoy our Red Eye Frog restaurant before being transported to their respective destinations. Explore our Sarapiquí River options for your next trip and discover how versatile and FUN it can be!

NEW OPERATION ON LAKE ARENAL

Introducing our new ARENAL PADDLE & PEDAL at Lake Arenal, providing various options for clients traveling between La Fortuna and Monteverde.

Policies for Road Drivers: Be SAFE! Have Serious FUN! We are convinced that navigating Costa Rica’s streets and highways is one of the most challenging and dangerous jobs. We pride ourselves on safe, courteous drivers. Here are our road policies:

A. Avoid maneuvers endangering customer and driver safety.

B. Avoid deviating from the established route without confirmation from Operations.

C. Do not stop in places jeopardizing customer safety.

D. Maintain speed limits.

E. Require seat belt use for all bus occupants.

Feel free to contact us with suggestions to enhance our transportation service for you and your clients.

Desafío Adventure Company to participate in the Whitewater Rafting Summit in Costa Rica

In October, we will participate in the Costa Rica Whitewater Rafting Summit, bringing together experts to modernize industry rules and procedures to international standards.

La entrada Desafio New Logistics – New Tours se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

Suresh Krishnan, the founder, and owner of Desafio Adventure Company expressed, “Monteverde is the ideal base for adventure, and one of the best rafting experiences is right in our backyard.”

The Tenorio River, classified as a challenging class 3-4 rafting river, is conveniently located less than two hours from Monteverde, nestled in the arid highlands near Cañas at the base of the Cordillera Central mountain range. This area encompasses the Children’s Eternal Rainforest and Arenal Volcano National Park, making it a hotspot for adrenaline-pumping adventures.

Adventure seekers can now embark on a thrilling rafting day trip from Monteverde or include rafting as an Adventure Connection to their favorite Guanacaste Beach destinations like Tamarindo, Samara, or Montezuma.

The highlight of the Extreme rafting on the Tenorio River is the opportunity to plunge over the famous Cascabel Falls—a breathtaking 12-ft waterfall drop at the end of the rafting trip, providing a truly exhilarating experience.

Following the rafting adventure, participants are treated to one of the best traditional meals in Costa Rica—a hearty plate of rice, beans, vegetables, salad, and a choice of meat such as chicken, beef, or fish, commonly known as a Costa Rica casado meal.

In addition to the adrenaline-pumping rafting experience, the Tenorio River also offers a serene safari float on the lower section, as well as river raft fishing excursions.

There’s a river adventure suitable for everyone originating from the Monteverde Cloud Forest on the Tenorio River. Seize the opportunity to try something new and exciting during your visit to Monteverde!

Whether you prefer rafting, a Monkey Boat Safari Float, or river fishing while staying at the beach, make sure to sign up for a Tenorio River tour for an unforgettable day in Costa Rica!

Calling all travel agents! Join the Desafio Revolution and access the best rates for adventures and transfers in Costa Rica.

For more information:

• Desafio Adventure Company: (506)2479-0020, reservations@desafiocostarica.com
• Monteverde Adventure Company: (506)2479-0020, reservations@desafiocostarica.com
• Tenorio Adventure Company: reservations@tenorioadventurecompany.com

La entrada Monteverde, Costa Rica—Desafio Adventure Company Launches Extreme Rafting Tours on Tenorio River se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

Incentive Travel in Costa Rica: A Unique Approach to Employee Rewards

Companies today recognize the value of providing extraordinary experiences to their teams. Incentive Travel programs in Costa Rica, like those offered by Desafío Adventure Company, have become a sought-after choice for enhancing morale, loyalty, and team collaboration. Upper management leverages such programs to motivate top performers, boost sales, and explore new strategic avenues.

Why Choose Costa Rica for Incentive Travel?

Drawing inspiration from successful endeavors, Desafío Adventure Company emphasizes Costa Rica’s appeal as an easy-to-organize destination with affordable options. With over 22 years of experience, Desafío is a family-owned and operated business with offices strategically located across Costa Rica. The company’s direct operation of tours and transport services sets it apart, ensuring high-quality and cost-effective solutions.

Incentive Travel Activities in Costa Rica

Desafío Adventure Company offers a range of thrilling activities for incentive travel programs, including:

1. Rafting Class 2-3 on the Rio Balsa
   • Price: $80 + taxes per person
   • Duration: Approx. 5 hours
   • Age Range: 8-65
   • Link to Activity
2. Rafting Class 3-4 on the Rio Sarapiqui
   • Price: $105 + taxes per person
   • Duration: Approx. 8 hours
   • Age Range: 13-65
   • Link to Activity
3. Lost Canyon Adventures Canyoneering
   • Price: $105 + taxes per person
   • Duration: Approx. 5 hours
   • Age Range: 8-65
   • Link to Activity
4. Mambo Combo – Rafting Class 2-3 on the Rio Balsa and Lost Canyon
   • Price: $165 + taxes per person
   • Duration: Approx. 8 hours
   • Age Range: 10-65
   • Link to Activity
5. Gravity Falls Waterfall Jumping
   • Price: $130 + taxes per person
   • Duration: Approx. 5 hours
   • Age Range: 15-70
   • Link to Activity

Why Desafío for Your Incentive Travel Program?

Desafío Adventure Company’s commitment is encapsulated in two rules: Be Safe and Have Serious Fun! With specialized activities, top-level team members, and a $3-million liability insurance policy, Desafío ensures a secure and exhilarating experience. The company’s team-building activities, such as “Survivor” or “The Amazing Race,” can be customized to suit your company’s unique needs.

Choose Desafío Adventure Company for your Incentive Travel Program, and unlock a world of benefits, including increased sales volume, enhanced teamwork, improved customer loyalty, and a competitive advantage. Let Costa Rica be the backdrop for your company’s success, where serious fun meets serious business.

La entrada Unlocking Adventure: Costa Rica Incentive Travel with Desafío Adventure Company se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

In March, a group of seven young Costa Rican men, predominantly from rural regions, completed their training at the Costa Rica Adventure Academy. Four of them, with indigenous BriBri roots from the Caribbean coast, formed the group named Di_Na-Mu, translating to Jaguar in BriBri.

Drawing inspiration from his U.S. military training, Krishnan infused elements of discipline and leadership into the academy’s curriculum. “So much of what I learned in the Army applies to my business,” Krishnan reflected.

Despite Costa Rica’s reputation as a peaceful, military-free country, Krishnan contends that a nation’s military ethos plays a pivotal role in shaping leadership, especially for the youth. “In my experience, we lack a strong culture of leadership in Costa Rica,” notes Suresh.

To impart an intensive leadership course, Krishnan enlisted three seasoned Master Guides, each boasting over 15 years of local and international adventure expertise.

The Adventure Academy’s training objective is to prepare both the mind and body for the challenges of the adventure tourism industry and the unpredictable natural environment. “Our Master Guides leveraged Costa Rica’s natural wonders—rivers, canyons, lakes, and rainforests—as classrooms,” Krishnan explained. The training included a demanding 2-hour rough-water swim in Lake Arenal, followed by an overnight camping experience in the elements.

Participants in the Costa Rica Adventure Academy engaged in self-competitive activities, fostering teamwork and mutual understanding. They acquired skills in raft guiding, tropical waterfall rappelling, and hiking in extreme conditions, complemented by rigorous physical training. Post this one-month training, they showcased their capabilities in the Costa Rica National Rafting Competition, securing an impressive fourth place.

While physical prowess is crucial for adventure guides, Krishnan emphasizes the multifaceted nature of leadership. A leader, in his view, must be an adept listener, a quick thinker, and prioritize safety and customer service. Students were evaluated on problem-solving abilities, adherence to safety protocols, and their capacity to deliver outstanding customer service. “Our focus was solely on enhancing the client experience,” Krishnan affirmed.

Observing the transformation of this group into strong leaders, Krishnan expressed confidence in steering adventure tourism towards enhanced safety, strength, and success. “The Di_Na-Mu graduates from the Costa Rica Adventure Academy are poised to become exceptional leaders.”

La entrada Costa Rica Adventure Academy: Igniting Excellence in Adventure Education se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

by Carlos Oviedo – Desafio Finance Manager

In 2009, during my early days at Desafio, I embarked on my first tour along the Rio Balsa. A slight mishap caused me to miss the regular morning rafting tour that most clients opt for. However, luck was on my side as I discovered a community group of local high school students from La Fortuna gearing up for a day of rafting and tree planting.

Accompanied by about 20 enthusiastic students, we made a pit stop in Santa Clara for some fresh fruit and to engage in tree-planting activities. The experience was not only enjoyable but also entertaining, with some Costa Rican high school students attempting to ride cows in a nearby field. Amidst the laughter and unforgettable moments, I encountered a small hurdle when one of my shoes fell apart, leaving me to navigate the rest of the day barefoot. Lunch at the river house was a delight, with delicious food adding to the overall experience.

My guide for the day was Cuca, who made the adventure even more enjoyable. He even allowed me to take control of the raft in a calm spot along the river. It was on that day that I fell in love with both the company and the thrilling sport of rafting. From then on, I dedicated my time to mastering the sport, progressing to solo kayaking adventures on the river. To this day, whenever the office gets busy or there’s a shortage of guides, I step out to cover the safety kayaks on rafting tours – a refreshing break from the daily grind.

If you want to delve deeper into the wonders of the Balsa River, click here to learn more. For those interested in engaging in community activities and contributing to tree-planting initiatives, feel free to contact our office here.

La entrada Carlos plants a tree and falls in love with rafting se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.

I’ve been fortunate enough to spend a significant amount of time in Costa Rica over the past few years, providing me with ample opportunities for exciting adventures, especially in whitewater rafting. My latest experience rafting the Balsa River with Desafío was truly exceptional, marked by unique river conditions and the unparalleled professionalism of our guides.

Our guide for this thrilling expedition was Melvin, and I can’t praise him enough. His precise instructions, urging us to lean into the center or sit within the raft, prevented potential mishaps as we navigated through rocks and rapids. The guides, including Melvin, maintained high spirits, playfully splashing us with river water. While they acknowledged that falling out of rafts was part of the adventure, they skillfully ensured everyone’s safety and swiftly assisted those who found themselves in the water.

Beyond the exceptional river guides, I was impressed by their professionalism in delicate situations. In a moment of need, Mey, one of the most experienced guides, displayed compassion, discretion, and professionalism when I approached him to request a stop for feminine products. Mey’s understanding and assistance were invaluable, making me appreciate Desafío’s commitment to helping guests in various situations.

In summary, my river rafting adventure with Desafío surpassed expectations. The stunning scenery and exhilarating river trip were complemented by the exceptional human element. Desafío’s guides, with their joviality, kindness, professionalism, compassion, and humor, elevated this tour to a unique experience. For me, Desafío not only offers some of the most creative and adventure-packed tours in Costa Rica but also sets a high standard in treating people with genuine compassion and kindness.

La entrada Adventure Rafting with Desafi­o: Balsa River, Level 2-3 se publicó primero en Desafio Adventure Blog.