What to Wear on a Rafting Tour in Arenal (Checklist)

You’ve booked your Rafting Tour in Arenal — now what? You’re probably wondering what to wear, what to pack, and how to prepare for an unforgettable day of whitewater thrills in the rainforest. Whether you’re tackling Class II or Class IV rapids, the right gear can make or break your experience.

In this guide, we’ll break down exactly what you need to wear and bring, explain why each item matters, and give you a downloadable checklist to make packing stress-free. Let’s dive in — the river is calling.

Why Dressing Right Matters for Your Arenal Rafting Tour
A Rafting Tour in Arenal is a mix of adrenaline, nature, and water — lots of water. You’ll be surrounded by lush jungle, wildlife, and powerful river currents. The weather in La Fortuna is tropical, which means you can expect heat, humidity, and sudden rain showers, even on sunny days.

Wearing the right clothing keeps you safe, comfortable, and focused on enjoying the rapids instead of adjusting soggy shoes or dealing with sunburn.

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What to Wear on a Rafting Tour in Arenal

1. Quick-Drying Clothes (Top & Bottom)
   Your clothes will get completely soaked, so cotton is a no-go. Instead, wear:

Synthetic materials like nylon or polyester

Rash guards or dri-fit t-shirts

Swimwear or board shorts

Avoid anything heavy or absorbent. Wet cotton clings, gets cold, and can weigh you down in the water.

1. Secure Water Shoes or Sandals
   Footwear is critical on a La Fortuna Rafting adventure. You need shoes that:

Have good grip

Stay on your feet (no flip-flops)

Dry quickly

Best choices:

Closed-toe water shoes

Strap-on adventure sandals (like Tevas or Chacos)

Old sneakers you don’t mind getting wet

1. Lightweight Rain Jacket (Optional)
   The weather in Arenal can change fast. A compact, waterproof jacket is a great idea, especially during the rainy season (May to November). Choose a breathable one so you don’t overheat.

2. Swimsuit or Bikini Underneath
   For maximum comfort, wear your swimsuit under your clothes. This makes changing afterward quick and easy. Just make sure everything stays in place during high-action paddling!

3. Sunglasses with Strap
   Sun glare off the water can be intense, especially on mid-morning tours. Bring polarized sunglasses — but always use a retainer strap or they’ll end up at the bottom of the river.

4. Hat or Cap with Chin Strap
   A hat helps with sun protection, but like your sunglasses, it needs to be secure. Wide-brimmed hats may get in the way of your helmet, so a lightweight cap is best.

5. Sunscreen (Waterproof)
   Even on cloudy days, UV rays are strong in Costa Rica. Apply sunscreen 30 minutes before your rafting tour. Look for:

Waterproof or sport formula

Reef-safe ingredients

SPF 30 or higher

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