Why Honeymoon on the Pacuare River
Few places combine adrenaline and romance so neatly. The first day is pure adventure: a morning drive from San José, a safety briefing and a run down the river with guides who know every rock. By afternoon, you are stepping off the raft into a remote lodge with no road traffic or neighbors in sight.
The gorge is lush and steep, with waterfalls pouring into the river and toucans calling in the canopy. Days at the lodge can be as active or lazy as you like: zip lining, hiking to waterfalls, a visit to a Cabécar community, or simply soaking in a private pool.
The lack of electricity in most suites, with lanterns and candles instead, creates an atmosphere that makes evenings feel intimate and unhurried.
When to Go
You can raft the Pacuare all year. The drier months, from about December to April, generally bring more sunshine, lower water and slightly gentler rapids on many stretches.
From May to November, rain increases and the river rises, making some rapids bigger and more exciting. Heavy rain can occasionally raise the river too high for safe rafting. When that happens, outfitters adjust routes or use land transfers instead.
Temperatures in the gorge are warm and humid year-round, with cooler nights. Rain is possible any month, so expect at least a shower or two. Weather on this side of the country can differ from Guanacaste's, so check the forecast close to your dates and plan for flexibility.
Where to Stay
Pacuare Lodge is the main reason couples come. It sits on the riverbank surrounded by forest, with suites built from local wood and thatch.
The Linda Vista villas sit on a ridge with river and rainforest views, each with a private spring-fed plunge pool. The Canopy Suite is set deeper in the jungle with an open deck and plunge pool, plus a private suspension bridge leading to an observation platform. River View and Garden suites offer simpler, lower-priced options.
The lodge also has a riverside spa, a restaurant and an open-air dining area. Most suites have no electricity, which means no air conditioning, though windows are screened. Children aged 7 and up are allowed, so it is not kid-free, but it remains quiet and intimate. Plan two or three nights.
Romantic Things to Do
- Raft the class III and IV rapids of the lower Pacuare with expert guides, passing waterfalls and gorges.
- Zip line through the forest canopy on the lodge's private course.
- Hike to nearby waterfalls and swim in natural pools.
- Visit a Cabécar Indigenous community on a guided trek, learning about traditional life in the forest.
- Book a couples treatment at the riverside spa.
- Go birdwatching at dawn for toucans, parrots and tanagers.
- Share a candlelit dinner by the river.
- Soak in your private plunge pool as the forest goes dark around you.
Getting There and Around
Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José. Lodge packages usually begin with an early pickup from San José, around 6:30 a.m., followed by breakfast and a drive of two to three hours to the river put-in. Rafting to the lodge takes about an hour and a half.
Because pickups are early, most couples spend the night before in San José. The return trip involves a longer rafting run downstream and a bus back, typically reaching San José by late afternoon.
Guests who would rather not raft can travel by 4x4 and cross the river in a cable basket, or arrange a charter flight. Pack light: luggage is transferred separately. Only small dry bags travel on the rafts.
Food and Drink
Meals at Pacuare Lodge are included in packages and served in an open-air dining room overlooking the river. The kitchen leans on Costa Rican ingredients, with fresh fruit, local coffee, grilled fish and meats, rice and beans and vegetarian options. Tell the lodge about dietary needs in advance.
River guides prepare a picnic lunch on the bank during longer rafting runs, often with fresh tropical fruit.
For something special, ask about private dinners, served by lantern light in a secluded spot. Drinks may or may not be included depending on your package, so check details when booking. Back in San José, plan a good dinner the night before or after your lodge stay.
Honeymoon Tips
Rafting is safe with experienced guides but physically demanding. Both of you should be comfortable in water and able to follow paddling commands. Those over 12 can raft.
Pack quick-dry clothes, sturdy water sandals, swimwear, a light rain jacket and insect repellent. Leave valuables in San José.
Mosquitoes and dengue occur in Costa Rica, especially in humid lowlands. Use repellent and cover up at dusk. If you're pregnant or hoping to be soon, check CDC travel health notices.
Expect limited connectivity. Wi-Fi may be available only in common areas. Embrace the break.
Book early, since the lodge has a limited number of suites and popular dates sell out months ahead.
