Sarapiquí: Discover the River, Forest and History

Sarapiquí offers a range of options to consider when planning your trip: historic events on the Río Sarapiquí, activities on the rivers and in the forest, and tours focused on chocolate and regional agriculture. If you’re looking for a hotel in Sarapiquí, it may help to first decide what you want to focus on during your trip. The options described range from a two-hour hike in a private reserve to rafting, motorboat rides and guided nature walks.

Historic sites on the Río Sarapiquí

La Trinidad is located at the mouth of the Río Sarapiquí, where it flows into the Río San Juan. Between late 1856 and early 1857, the town was one of the main battlegrounds during Costa Rica’s National Campaign. The Río Sarapiquí has the status of a national monument because it historically served as an access route and is associated with the Battle of Sardinal against the filibusters.

The name Ruta de los Héroes brings together the historical events of 1856 and 1857, including the battles of Sardinal and La Trinidad on the Río Sarapiquí. A specific site and an overarching name for the events of those years therefore stand side by side: La Trinidad refers to the place at the river mouth, while the Ruta de los Héroes encompasses both battles.

Rafting and motorboat rides

Rafting has been available on the Río Sarapiquí for more than 25 years; today, local companies organize rafting trips there. Providers and river conditions can change, so check the latest information about trips before making plans.

Motorboat rides on the Río Sarapiquí and Río Puerto Viejo offer another way to experience the rivers. Visitors can observe the landscapes, flora and fauna along the way. The river activities described here therefore differ in their focus: rafting takes place on the Río Sarapiquí, while the motorboat rides focus on observing the surrounding area.

Forest, reserve and trails

Guided forest walks with a nature guide are available in Sarapiquí. Visitors can learn about mammals, birds, insects and amphibians. La Selva Biological Station borders Braulio Carrillo National Park; this relationship between the station and the protected area is also part of Sarapiquí’s natural setting.

At Hacienda Pozo Azul, a two-hour hike in its private reserve includes a visit to the butterfly farm, frog pond, organic farm and hanging bridge. As facilities and tour itineraries may change, check the latest information on which elements are included before making plans.

Sarapiquí offers mountain biking on gravel roads and mountain trails in a natural, rural landscape. This activity differs from guided forest walks: here, the focus is on the trails and cycling, while guided walks are led by a nature guide and introduce visitors to different groups of animals. Bear in mind when planning that trail conditions may change.

Chocolate and regional agriculture tours

Themed tours about chocolate are available in Sarapiquí. Another tour introduces visitors to a crop for which the region is known, and they can enjoy the fruit associated with it. The two offerings have different focuses: one centers on chocolate, while the other explores the connection between agriculture and fruit. Sarapiquí is also an important location for scientific research on tropical forests and their ecosystems. This research is another aspect of the regional context, alongside activities for visitors.

Find a hotel that suits your travel interests

If you’re mainly interested in the historical events, the sites and their historical context may help you decide. If you’re more interested in observing nature, walking in the forest or mountain biking, you can take these priorities into account when planning your trip. River rides and themed tours also offer a different way to experience the destination. This way, you can tailor your hotel search to the interests that matter to you during your stay.

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