4-Day Camino Highlights

Description

This is a self-guided tour until the rafting portion of the trip. The mix of stages 4 through 7, but completed in reverse, gives you the best climate and views on the Camino. It then sets you up perfectly to raft down the famous Pacuare River, stopping midway at the newest lodge constructed on the River – Rio Vista Lodge. This itinerary has simple logistics and visits the highlights of what makes the Camino so special.

Day 1: Hike from Pejibaye to Silencio

This hike begins at the iconic Río Pejibaye footbridge. Follow the river to the small town of Atirro, then cross through coffee and sugarcane fields as you ascend to a viewpoint overlooking Lake Angostura. The trail then climbs challenging terrain to Silencio, where your accommodation offers stunning views.

Highlights: Amazing views

Starting point: Pejibaye Bridge
Ending point: Casa Nuñez Solano
Distance: 18KM

Day 2: From Silencio through Pacayitas

When the Camino de Costa Rica was penciled out by the Mar a Mar Association, they wanted to focus on bringing the trail through rural areas of the country that haven’t been touched by tourism. On today’s hike you will experience the best of that as you journey through the Pacayitas region and into Tres Equis. You’ll pass farmers, meet happy dogs and get incredible views along the way.

Highlights: Rural Costa Rica

Starting point: Casa Nuñez Solano
Ending point: Finca Tres Equis
Distance: 21.4KM

Day 3: Descend to the Rio Pacuare and raft to Rio Vista Lodge

After a delicious breakfast, you’ll say goodbye to Finca Tres Equis and begin the short hike down into the Rio Pacuare canyon. At the river, you’ll meet your river guides where you’ll swap your backpacks for PFDs. The first portion of the Pacuare is mellower rapids with amazing scenery. You’ll explore side creeks and swimming holes, see macaws and stop alongside the river for a hearty river lunch. Shortly after lunch, you’ll arrive at Rio Vista Lodge, featuring 9 stand alone cabins nestled in the Pacuare jungle. That night your river guides turn into river chefs and they’ll prepare an incredible dinner before you turn in for the evening.

Highlights: Pacuare swimming holes

Starting point: Finca Tres Equis
Ending point: Rio Vista Lodge
Distance: 4KM hiking, 6KM rafting

Day 4: Raft Class II, III and IV rapids through the famous Pacuare Gorge

On Day 4, you’ll leave the lodge by raft and paddle through the famous Pacuare Gorge. Stunning canyons, cascading waterfalls, wildlife and tons of rapids fill the day. You’ll soon see why National Geographic calls this a top ten river. After another delicious lunch, the guides will navigate one more Class IV rapid “Dos Montanas” before arriving at takeout in the town of Siquirres.

Highlights: Whitewater and waterfalls

Starting point: Rio Vista Lodge
Ending point: Siquirres, Costa Rica
Distance: 19KM (rafting)

Booking considerations

Because Pacuare rafting trips do not depart every day, first confirm availability through the Pacuare Outdoor Center two-day inquiry form. Once that booking is in progress, you can proceed with arranging your other reservations. If a particular accommodation is unavailable, there are nearby alternatives.