Discover the Majesty of Río Barú
Explore the natural beauty and adventure of Río Barú, Costa Rica's stunning river perfect for rafting, kayaking, and wildlife exploration.
Río Barú is a captivating river in Costa Rica that enchants visitors with its stunning natural beauty, rich biodiversity, and vibrant ecosystem. Perfect for adventurous tourists, it offers a unique blend of relaxation and thrill, with opportunities for rafting, kayaking, and exploring the lush surrounding landscapes.
A brief summary to Río Barú
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Local tips
- Visit during the rainy season for the best rafting experience, as the water levels will be higher.
- Don't forget to bring a waterproof camera to capture the beautiful scenery and wildlife.
- Consider hiring a local guide for a more enriching adventure and to ensure safety on the river.
- Pack snacks and plenty of water, as amenities near the river may be limited.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car within the Brunca Region, start by heading towards the town of Dominical. From Dominical, take Route 34 south towards Palmar Norte. Continue on Route 34 until you reach the intersection with Route 2 at Palmar Norte. Turn left onto Route 2 (Interamericana Sur) and follow it for about 10 kilometers. Look for signs indicating Río Barú and turn right onto the dirt road leading to the river. Be prepared for some bumpy roads, and follow the signs to reach the river's access point.
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Public Transportation
To reach Río Barú via public transportation, take a bus from San Isidro de El General to Dominical. Buses depart regularly from the San Isidro bus terminal. Once in Dominical, transfer to another bus headed to Palmar Norte. Inform the driver that you want to get off near Río Barú. After disembarking, you may need to walk approximately 1-2 kilometers along the dirt road leading to the river. Keep an eye out for signs to ensure you are on the right track.
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Taxi or Ride-Sharing
For a more direct option, consider taking a taxi or using a ride-sharing service from Dominical or San Isidro. This method can be more expensive, with costs ranging from $20 to $40, depending on your starting point. Just provide the driver with the destination 'Río Barú', and they will take you directly to the river. Make sure to confirm the fare before starting the trip.
Discover more about Río Barú
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Waterfall Villas - Wellness, Vegan, Yoga Retreat
1.0 km
Discover tranquility and rejuvenation at Waterfall Villas, a premier wellness, vegan, and yoga retreat in the heart of Costa Rica's breathtaking landscapes.
Don Lulos Nauyaca Waterfall
1.7 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Don Lulos Nauyaca Waterfall in Costa Rica's stunning jungle, a perfect retreat for nature lovers.
Valley of Dreams Eco Lodge
3.1 km
Discover the serene beauty of Pérez Zeledón at Valley of Dreams Eco Lodge, an eco-friendly retreat nestled in the heart of Costa Rica's lush landscapes.
Costa Rica Explorer
3.7 km
Experience the ultimate adventure in Costa Rica with thrilling sports and eco-tours at Costa Rica Explorer, nestled in the beautiful Dominical region.
Danyasa Yoga Retreat
3.8 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Danyasa Yoga Retreat, a premier destination for yoga and wellness in the heart of Costa Rica's stunning nature.
Costa Paraiso
3.9 km
Discover the serene beauty and adventure of Costa Paraiso, a tropical haven on the Pacific coast, perfect for every traveler seeking tranquility and nature.
Playa Domenical, Costa Rica
4.1 km
Experience the perfect blend of surf, sun, and nature at Playa Dominical, Costa Rica's premier beach destination.
Pacific Edge Eco Lodge
5.3 km
Discover a serene escape at Pacific Edge Eco Lodge, where nature meets comfort in the heart of Dominicalito, Costa Rica.
Pacific Journeys
6.3 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and rich biodiversity of Costa Rica with Pacific Journeys, your premier tour agency in Pérez Zeledón.
Hotel Cuna del Angel - Dominical Costa Rica
7.7 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica at Hotel Cuna del Angel, where luxury meets nature in a tranquil tropical paradise.
Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa
9.6 km
Experience the magic of Costa Rica at Tiki Villas Rainforest Lodge & Spa, a tranquil paradise nestled in the lush rainforest with stunning ocean views.
Rancho Pacifico
15.1 km
Discover the serene luxury of Rancho Pacifico, where stunning ocean views meet exceptional hospitality in the heart of Uvita, Costa Rica.
Corcovado National Park - Sirena and San Pedrillo Ranger Station
16.1 km
Discover the breathtaking biodiversity and stunning landscapes of Corcovado National Park's Sirena and San Pedrillo Ranger Stations in Costa Rica.
Punta Uvita
16.2 km
Discover Punta Uvita, a tropical paradise in Costa Rica, where stunning beaches meet lush rainforests and vibrant marine life awaits your exploration.
Osa Costa Rica
16.4 km
Explore Osa, Costa Rica: A Biodiversity Haven with Pristine Beaches and Rich Cultural Experiences Awaiting You.
Unmissable attractions to see
Nauyaca Waterfalls
1.7 km
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Nauyaca Waterfalls, Costa Rica, where lush jungles and stunning cascades await.
Parque Reptilandia
1.7 km
Explore the vibrant world of reptiles at Parque Reptilandia, a captivating sanctuary in Platanillo, Costa Rica, dedicated to conservation and education.
Hacienda Ebano
1.7 km
Explore the breathtaking landscapes of Hacienda Ebano, a nature preserve in Pérez Zeledón, Costa Rica, offering adventure, tranquility, and stunning biodiversity.
Dominical
3.5 km
Explore Dominical, a coastal gem in Costa Rica, famous for surfing, stunning beaches, and rich biodiversity that captivates every traveler.
Costa Rica Dive and Surf
3.8 km
Experience the thrill of surfing at Costa Rica Dive and Surf, the ultimate destination for surf enthusiasts in Dominical's stunning coastal paradise.
Pineapple Tours Kayak & SUP
3.9 km
Discover the beauty of Costa Rica's coastline with Pineapple Tours Kayak & SUP, offering unforgettable kayaking and stand-up paddleboarding adventures.
Dominical Surf Adventures
3.9 km
Experience the thrill of surfing, rafting, and kayaking at Dominical Surf Adventures in Costa Rica's breathtaking Pacific coast.
Roca Verde
3.9 km
Discover the thrill of rock climbing amidst the breathtaking landscapes of Roca Verde in Puntarenas Province, Costa Rica.
Todo Sano Surf School
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of surfing at Todo Sano Surf School in Dominical, Costa Rica – perfect for beginners and advanced surfers alike.
Playa Dominical
4.0 km
Experience the magic of Playa Dominical, a surfer's paradise with stunning beaches, vibrant wildlife, and a laid-back atmosphere in Costa Rica's scenic Puntarenas Province.
Costa Rica Surf Camp
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of surfing at Costa Rica Surf Camp, where beginners and pros alike ride the waves in stunning Dominical.
Dominical Waverider Surf School
4.0 km
Embrace the thrill of surfing at Dominical Waverider Surf School, where expert instruction meets the stunning waves of Costa Rica's Pacific coast.
True Surf Dominical
4.0 km
Experience the thrill of surfing in Costa Rica at True Surf Dominical - perfect for all skill levels in a stunning tropical paradise.
Rio Baru, Dominical Puntarenas
4.2 km
Explore the stunning Rio Baru in Dominical, Puntarenas – a paradise for adventure seekers and nature lovers alike amidst lush rainforests.
Dominicalito Beach
4.3 km
Unwind at Dominicalito Beach, a serene escape in Costa Rica boasting stunning views, vibrant marine life, and a perfect blend of relaxation and adventure.
Essential places to dine
Luna Nueva Bar y Restaurante
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Luna Nueva Bar y Restaurante, where culinary delights meet breathtaking natural beauty.
Fika Bar & Restaurante
3.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Fika Bar & Restaurante in Pérez Zeledón – where culinary delight meets warm hospitality.
El Pescado Loco
3.6 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican seafood at El Pescado Loco, where fresh flavors meet a vibrant coastal atmosphere.
Selva Orgánica Café y EcoMercado
3.8 km
Experience fresh flavors and sustainability at Selva Orgánica Café y EcoMercado - your go-to spot for organic vegan delights in Pérez Zeledón.
Lori Restaurant
3.8 km
Experience exceptional vegan cuisine at Lori Restaurant in Dominical – where flavor meets sustainability in every delightful dish.
Fuego Brewing Company
3.9 km
Discover Fuego Brewing Company in Dominical – where craft beer meets exquisite local cuisine amidst stunning natural beauty.
La Parcela Resturant and Cabins
5.5 km
Discover La Parcela Restaurant & Cabins: where exquisite Costa Rican flavors meet stunning natural beauty in Puntarenas Province.
Restaurante Scala
6.8 km
Experience exquisite cuisine at Restaurante Scala in Osa Peninsula - where fresh local flavors meet stunning natural beauty.
Mirador Los Chorros
8.0 km
Experience breathtaking views and authentic local cuisine at Mirador Los Chorros in Alfombra, Costa Rica.
Rancho Cielo Alto - BY RESERVATION ONLY
10.9 km
Discover exquisite dining at Rancho Cielo Alto in Playa Hermosa - where culinary art meets breathtaking coastal views.
Urban Farm
17.7 km
Discover Urban Farm in San Isidro de El General for fresh Costa Rican cuisine served in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.
Restaurante Chirripo
18.3 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Restaurante Chirripo in San Isidro de El General - where flavor meets hospitality.
Kamut
18.3 km
Experience fast food like never before at Kamut in San Isidro de El General - where local flavors meet quick service.
Cervecería, Bar y Restaurante Chirripóberg
19.1 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican flavors at Cervecería Chirripóberg - where local brews meet delicious cuisine.
Snack la Bonita
21.1 km
Discover Snack la Bonita: A family-friendly gem in San José offering delicious Costa Rican snacks in a vibrant atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Tico Roots Souvenier
3.5 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenir for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique gifts, capturing the essence of your travels in Dominical.
Souvenirs Raíces
3.6 km
Discover authentic Costa Rican treasures at Souvenirs Raíces, a boutique filled with unique handcrafted gifts and vibrant local artistry.
Tico Roots Souvenirs, Supporting Local and National Artist
3.6 km
Explore Tico Roots Souvenirs in Dominical for authentic Costa Rican gifts crafted by local artists, showcasing the beauty of national artistry.
Costa Verde Surf shop
15.8 km
Experience the ultimate surfing adventure at Costa Verde Surf Shop in Uvita, where expert advice meets high-quality gear in a vibrant coastal setting.
Centro Comercial Montegeneral
19.3 km
Discover a vibrant shopping experience at Centro Comercial Montegeneral, where local culture meets modern retail in the heart of San Isidro de El General.
Mariposario Casa Alegria, ecotour ,yoga & cafe Restaurante
32.1 km
Discover the vibrant ecotourism gem of Mariposario Casa Alegria, where nature meets relaxation in a delightful blend of coffee, yoga, and wildlife.
Gelateria El Parque
36.6 km
Discover the refreshing taste of Gelateria El Parque, where delicious ice creams meet the stunning backdrop of Parque Nacional Manuel Antonio.
JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach
36.8 km
Discover the ultimate beachwear selection at JP Seats & Shade Manuel Antonio Beach, where style meets adventure in a tropical paradise.
Souvenir Colores de Costa rica (Gift Shop)
36.9 km
Explore Souvenir Colores de Costa Rica for unique, handcrafted treasures that celebrate the vibrant culture and beauty of Costa Rica.
Supermarket Pura Vida
36.9 km
Explore Supermarket Pura Vida in Manuel Antonio for fresh local produce, international snacks, and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
Authentica Gift Shop - Manuel Antonio
38.2 km
Discover unique Costa Rican crafts at Authentic Gift Shop in Manuel Antonio, where every purchase tells a story of local culture and artistry.
Indigo by Jungle Sol
38.4 km
Indigo by Jungle Sol: Your go-to boutique for authentic Costa Rican crafts and unique souvenirs in Quepos.
Jungle Avenue
38.4 km
Jungle Avenue: Your boutique destination in Quepos for unique clothing and exquisite local jewelry, reflecting Costa Rica's vibrant culture.
Maui
38.4 km
Explore a cozy book store in Quepos, Maui, where literature meets the vibrant culture of Costa Rica, offering a unique retreat for book lovers.
Souvenir divisamar
38.4 km
Discover unique Costa Rican souvenirs at Souvenir Divisamar in Quepos, your one-stop shop for local crafts and memorable gifts.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Whale Tail Brewery CR
15.4 km
Experience the finest craft beers and delicious bites at Whale Tail Brewery CR, a hidden gem in Uvita, Puntarenas Province.
Centro Turístico, Bar y Restaurante La Perla
23.7 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at La Perla, San Isidro's beloved grill and bar, where every meal is a celebration of local cuisine.
Bar la Terraza
29.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Pérez Zeledón at Bar la Terraza, where karaoke and fun blend beautifully in an inviting atmosphere.
The Bamboo Room Restaurant
30.5 km
Discover the vibrant culinary scene at The Bamboo Room Restaurant, where delicious food meets live music in the heart of Ojochal, Costa Rica.
Tami Lodge & Cafetería
30.6 km
Discover the charm of Tami Lodge & Cafetería, where comfort meets Costa Rican culture in the heart of nature.
Sonia's bar krustaceo kascarudo
30.6 km
Experience the vibrant coastal culture at Sonia's Bar in Osa, where delightful seafood meets breathtaking ocean views.
Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge
31.0 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Lauraceas Restaurante Cafeteria Lodge, where local cuisine meets stunning natural beauty in San Gerardo de Dota.
Rio Chirripo
32.8 km
Experience tranquility and rejuvenation at Rio Chirripo, Costa Rica's premier lodge and yoga retreat center surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Restaurante Doña Marlen
33.1 km
Experience the flavors of Costa Rica at Restaurante Doña Marlen, a culinary gem in the scenic San Gerardo de Dota, renowned for its local dishes and warm hospitality.
Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café ️
33.4 km
Discover the flavors of Costa Rica at Kapi Kapi Chirripo Eco Mercado & Café, where local ingredients and sustainability meet in a cozy atmosphere.
Bar Y Restaurante Relax
36.9 km
Experience the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Bar Y Restaurante Relax, a must-visit restaurant in Quepos offering delightful local cuisine and a lively atmosphere.
B&B Beach and Drinks
37.0 km
Experience the best seafood dining with stunning ocean views at B&B Beach and Drinks, a hidden gem near Manuel Antonio Beach.
Cocos
37.3 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Cocos, the perfect bar in Quepos for exquisite cocktails and a taste of Costa Rican culture.
patatus bar
38.2 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Costa Rica at Patatus Bar, a charming tapas bar in Quepos offering delicious small plates and a cozy atmosphere.
Soda El Angel
38.5 km
Experience authentic Costa Rican cuisine at Soda El Angel, a beloved eatery in Quepos known for its fresh ingredients and friendly atmosphere.
