A wild river coursing through rich rainforest valleys
25,000 acres of primary, virgin rainforest stretching from the Talamanca Cordillera to the eastern Caribbean lowlands are nurtured by the swirling waters of the magnificent Pacuare River.
This is the exhilarating Pacuare region, voted by National Geographic as one of the world’s top 10 river trip destinations. Its steep gorges of churning rapids and cascading waterfalls are lined with the clamouring wilderness of its thick undergrowth, a landscape regularly interchanging with quieter sections of serene banks with banana trees, coconut palms and perforated by the sounds of howler monkeys and home to the likes of river otters and blue herons.
Despite its remoteness Pacuare still remains very accessible and is the perfect rainforest retreat for nature-lovers, thrill-seekers, or those just looking for a bit of wild seclusion with the natural world.
Highlights
Embark on a night tour, spotting nocturnal wildlife such as snakes, spiders, porcupines, tree frogs and more.
Follow an expert guide on trails through lush rainforest, marvelling at thundering waterfalls and uncovering ancient history along the way.
Spot exotic bird species that include the Sun Bittern, Red-throated Ant-Tanager, Black-cheeked Woodpecker and a variety of colourful toucans.
Experience the thrill of canyoning, or canyoneering, which combines hiking, climbing and rappelling.
Pacuare Reserve is Costa Rica's nature at it's best. I recommend a stay in one of the luxury suites at Pacuare Lodge, embedded in the heart of the jungle, where you'll be awoken by the serenade of toucans and colourful hummingbirds. Then set out to reach new heights in the treetops as you glide from one tree to the next in an exhilarating canopy adventure.

Lizzie Slater
Travel Designer
Luxury accommodation in Pacuare Reserve
Why book with Jacada?

Personalised design
We’ll plan your trip around your specific interests, tastes and preferences, providing helpful tips and honest advice based on first-hand knowledge of the destination.

Authentic experiences
Our expert guides and brilliant travel concierges are hand-picked to provide a genuine experience, bringing your destination to life with care and passion.

Responsible travel
Our luxury trips are designed with responsible travel principles that prioritise travel experiences that are both good for you and good for the planet.
Trip Inspiration
Where to go

Arenal
The omnipresent Arenal Volcano towers over the region, contrasting against sheer blue skies or framed by verdant jungle foliage as you glance up from your activities. Enjoy hikes, zip lines, hot springs and much more.
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Corcovado and Osa Peninsula
Osa enjoys an exceptional wealth of biodiversity, from primary rainforests to sandy coastline. Remote and exciting, this is one of the best places for wildlife encounters in Costa Rica.
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Dominical
A sleepy surf village with great access to the national park and various stunning beaches. Learn to ride the big waves or sit back and relax in nature watching fiery sunsets.
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Manuel Antonio
One of Costa Rica’s most popular destinations, and for good reason. A marine reserve protecting an idyllic coastline and important, verdant rainforests. Spot dolphins, whales, howler monkeys and kingfishers.
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Nicoya Peninsula
Tangled stone cliffs and winding mangroves greet the rugged, beautiful coastline of the Nicoya Peninsula. A natural paradise with a focus on sustainability and respecting the precious environment.
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Puerto Viejo
Located on the southern Caribbean coastline there’s plenty to do here. Visit Gandoca-Manzanillo Refuge for wildlife, surf the big waves on Salsa Brava beach or find the calmer waters and beach bars at Limon.
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Rio Celeste
Over 100 kilometres from San Jose, truly off the beaten track. Many habitats converge here attracting hundreds of bird species. Float on the azure blue river and meet with the Maleku Indigenous Tribe.
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San Jose
A cosmopolitan city with some worthwhile highlights to explore. The colonial quarters of the city are vibrant and filled with smells of food stalls and ground coffee.
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The Central Cloud Forests
Elevated, tropical evergreen forests, misty and humid, transport you to a magical paradise. Hike to waterfalls among almost luminous green lichen and moss punctuated, with pink tropical orchids.
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The Coffee Valley
Fertile volcanic soil and a tropical climate make Costa Rica one of the best places in the world for growing delicious coffee beans. Learn about the culture connected with the land and enjoy hiking, horseback riding and more.
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The Guanacaste Coast
Known for wide, long stretches of coastline and consistent sunshine, Guanacaste has long been a ‘surfers paradise’. Explore inland to discover the region's wildlife in Rincón de la Vieja National Park.
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Tortuguero
Explore this region on foot or by boat, discovering its many lagoons, canals and rivers. With 11 different habitats attracting a diverse range of wildlife species, including turtles, this is a great place for nature lovers.
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When to visit
Costa Rica’s dry season runs from mid November to April, and most areas are dry, warm and sunny. Occasional blustery winds blow during January and February bringing the temperature down. During the wet season, from May to mid November, expect afternoon rains and sunny mornings.

Caribbean Coast
May - November

Sea Turtle Nesting Season
May - November

Birdwatching
Year Round
Costa Rica Travel Guides
Plan your trip to Pacuare Reserve
Whatever you want from your adventure in Pacuare Reserve, our team of expert travel designers are ready to help.


Plan with peace of mind
When you book a trip in today’s world there’s a lot to think about. But with the right advice and expert planning, you can do it with confidence.
If you book to travel with us but your plans are impacted by circumstances you can’t control, we’ll change your reservation or cancel your booking for a full credit towards future travel.