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Cabins perch high on the riverbanks

Ave Sol River Sanctuary

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Ave Sol River Sanctuary is a secluded 120-acre lodge in the Caribbean foothills of Costa Rica, near Bajo Tigre in Siquirres, Limon. It borders the Nairi-Awari Cabecar Indigenous Reserve and connects to protected areas across the Talamanca Mountain Range, serving as a vital refuge for diverse native flora and fauna, including endemic and endangered species. Conservation efforts focus on restoring wildlife connectivity between the Central Volcanic and Talamanca ranges. Guests can enjoy whitewater rafting, hiking scenic trails, swimming in natural river pools, and learning about Cabecar traditions.

The Lodge
Situated on the Pacuare River, the lodge features rustic cabins made from sustainably harvested timber, offering comfortable beds, panoramic windows, and views of the Turrialba volcano. Cabins come with private or shared bathrooms, hot showers, and modern amenities, including a kitchen and dining area.

Community Areas
Ave Sol's community areas offer spaces for guests to relax and connect with nature. The dining area brings guests together over shared meals, while the hammock ranch provides a peaceful spot to unwind. The bar serves as a social hub for enjoying drinks and sharing experiences. Well-maintained trails and gardens invite exploration and quiet reflection in the lush surroundings.

TAJA Initiative
TAJA (Talamanca Jaguar) focuses on jaguar conservation and other environmental projects at Ave Sol, a 120-acre sanctuary in the Central Volcanic and Talamanca ranges. The area supports diverse wildlife, including endangered species, while research led by Gustavo Castro uses camera traps to study jaguar connectivity and ecosystem health. The Cabécar people share their cultural heritage through guided tours, and sustainable tourism programs engage guests in hands-on conservation and environmental education.
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Cabins perch high on the riverbanks Bathroom Comfortable beds, solid roof and walls with panoramic windows Dining Area Rustic cabin accommodations Lodge Front Vista View of one of the cabins outside Rapids of the river has formed a natural pool along the bend of the river Pathways, trails and gardens from the river and around the reserve

Itineraries

Scarlet macaws perched in the rainforest
from $2,149
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Wild Costa Rica Corcovado

8 Day Itinerary
Activities
Hiking, Horseback Riding, Kayaking, Rainforest Exploration, Snorkeling, Whitewater Rafting, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing, Ziplining
Activity Level
Moderate
Experience an 8-day Costa Rica vacation package that immerses you in the natural wonders of Central America. After a two-day whitewater rafting trip on the Pacuare River, explore the Osa Peninsula and Corcovado National Park, where you can go horseback riding, hiking, kayaking, surfing, snorkeling, whale watching, or take a rainforest canopy tour.
  • Whitewater raft the Pacuare River
  • Search for scarlet macaws
  • Camp on sandy beaches
  • Hike along paths in Corcovado
Tour Details
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Playing in the mist of the falls
from $2,498
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Beaches & Rainforest

9 Day Itinerary
Activities
Fishing, Horseback Riding, Kayaking, Rainforest Exploration, Snorkeling, Whitewater Rafting, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level
Easy Active
Enjoy this active and varied 9-day Costa Rica vacation that is suitable for almost any age of traveler. Plunge down the whitewater of the Pacuare River, experience the jungle adventures of Selva Bananito Lodge, and end with a few relaxing days on a Caribbean beach. Snorkeling, kayaking, and rainforest exploration highlight this trip.
  • Climb a giant kapok tree
  • Relax on white sand beaches
  • Snorkel and kayak in the Caribbean
  • Raft the Pacuare River
Tour Details
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Visit the lush jungle and stunning waterfalls
from $2,314
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Wild Costa Rica

Nicuesa - 8 Day Itinerary
Activities
Fishing, Kayaking, Snorkeling, Whitewater Rafting, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level
Easy Active
This exhilarating 8-day tour takes you first on a thrilling two-day whitewater rafting trip along the Pacuare River and then into the lush jungle to learn about the birds, monkeys, sloths, and other animals that live there. This is followed by a 3-day trip to Playa Nicuesa, where you can see beautiful macaws before heading back to San Jose.
  • Spend two days rafting the Pacuare
  • Camp along the river
  • Tour the jungle with a naturalist
  • Take a night walk to see wildlife
Tour Details
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Rafting in Costa Rica
from $2,170
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Pura Vida

6 Day Itinerary
Activities
Rainforest Exploration, Whitewater Rafting, Wildlife Viewing, Ziplining
Activity Level
Easy Active
This 6-day Costa Rica trip takes you rafting on the beautiful and challenging Pacuare River, exploring the active Arenal Volcano and its amazing hot springs before ziplining through lush rainforest canopy at the famous rainforest tram. Contact us about customizing this action-packed Costa Rica adventure tour.
  • Raft down the Pacuare River
  • Find wildlife in the rain forest
  • Explore the Arenal Volcano area
  • Hike along the old lava flows
Tour Details
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Pacuare River Whitewater
from $429
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Pacuare River Rafting with Overnight

2 Day Itinerary
Activities
Whitewater Rafting
Activity Level
Moderate
This 2-day extension tour takes you whitewater rafting through a tropical rainforest on the Pacuare River, where Class III-IV rapids make for an exciting excursion. You'll plunge through mountain gorges, run long stretches of powerful rapids, and witness all kinds of tropical wildlife. Spend a night in the rainforest at a riverside eco-lodge.
Tour Details
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Howler Monkey in the rainforest canopy
from $3,907
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Corcovado Trekking

9 Day Itinerary
Activities
Hiking, Whitewater Rafting, Wilderness Lodge Exploration, Wildlife Viewing
Activity Level
Moderate
Explore Costa Rica's remote Corcovado National Park on this 9-day active hiking tour. Spend two days on the whitewater of the Pacuare River and hike in the jungle of Corcovado. One of the most biodiverse regions on the planet, you will spot countless birds, reptiles, and other rainforest wildlife. An active Costa Rica trip for the avid explorer.
  • Spend two days rafting the Pacuare
  • Camp on the remote beaches
  • Hike trails in search of wildlife
  • Hike, snorkel, kayak or whale watch
Tour Details
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Activities

Whitewater Rafting on the Pacuare River
The Pacuare River is renowned for its stunning scenery, including a unique canyon, extraordinary biodiversity, pristine waters, and thrilling rapids. The exhilaration is felt as one of the most beautiful waterfalls, cascading dramatically into the river, is passed. Recognized as one of the ten most beautiful rivers in the world and a top destination for whitewater rafting, the Pacuare offers an unforgettable adventure.

Private tours are operated by specialized rafting experts, with experienced and bilingual guides who know the river inside out. With high-quality equipment and a strong commitment to safety, a spectacular and secure trip is ensured.

Starting at Finca La Cruz, the rafting journey includes an additional four miles of river adventure compared to other operators. The excitement of Class III rapids is enjoyed, interspersed with tranquil sections perfect for taking in the lush forest surroundings. Along the way, pristine creeks and waterfalls are stopped at for swimming and wildlife spotting. Needs are attended to by guides, who prepare delicious meals and ensure safety and enjoyment throughout the trip.

Rich and Natural and Cultural Experiences
Step into the world of the Cabecar families, renowned as the largest ethnic group in Costa Rica, celebrated for their colorful traditions and deep-rooted culture. As you hike through the protected Indigenous reserve, you'll gain a deeper understanding and appreciation of the region's rich biodiversity. During your visit, you'll experience the preserved Cabecar culture and learn about its contemporary challenges. Guided walks to the local village include opportunities to see traditional huts, visit the local school where the children are as curious as the visitors, learn about forest lore and techniques, and try shooting arrows with a traditionally crafted bow.

Discover the Hidden Wonders of Talamanca on Scenic Walks and Trails
Embark on a journey where you'll step into the shoes of a biologist, delving into the fascinating world of the jaguar, one of nature's most captivating and iconic creatures. Heat and motion-sensitive cameras are strategically placed to monitor wildlife, with a special focus on the jaguar and its prey. A highlight of the reserve is the ancient and rare Cola de pavo tree (Hymenolobium mesoamericanum), which you can encounter along a picturesque trail through pristine primary rainforest. Whether you prefer leisurely walks or challenging mountain hikes, the trails offer opportunities to observe wildlife, discover endemic plant species, and enjoy natural features like rock pools, creeks, and waterfalls.

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