Sarapiquí, Costa Rica

Sarapiquí is a destination in Heredia, Costa Rica. Best time to visit: February to April is driest, but rafting runs all year.

Key facts

RegionHeredia, Costa Rica
Best time to visitFebruary to April is driest, but rafting runs all year.
How to get thereAbout 1.5 hours from San José through Braulio Carrillo National Park.

Sarapiquí is lowland rainforest along a river made for rafting, with chocolate tours, hanging bridges and some of the best birdwatching in Costa Rica.

Best time to visit

February to April is driest, but rafting runs all year.

How to get there

About 1.5 hours from San José through Braulio Carrillo National Park.

New places are on the way.

Questions travelers ask

Is Sarapiquí good for rafting?

Yes. Class II–III runs suit families and first-timers.

Can I do Sarapiquí on the way to La Fortuna?

Yes, it's a natural stop between San José and Arenal.

Where can I see poison dart frogs?

On guided walks at local reserves and at La Selva biological station.

Is there a chocolate tour?

Yes, several farms show the bean-to-bar process with tastings.

How many days do I need?

One or two days covers rafting and a rainforest walk.

Nearby destinations