WHAT TO WEAR RAFTING IN COSTA RICA

What to Wear Rafting in Costa Rica (Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors)

Planning a rafting tour in Costa Rica? Knowing what to wear can make the difference between a comfortable, fun experience and an uncomfortable one.

The good news: rafting here is beginner-friendly, and you don’t need any special gear. You just need the right clothing to stay comfortable, safe, and ready for the adventure.

Quick Answer: What Should You Wear Rafting?

For most rafting tours in Costa Rica, you should wear:

Lightweight, quick-drying clothes
A swimsuit or athletic wear
Water shoes or secure sandals
Sunscreen and a secure strap for sunglasses

Avoid anything heavy, restrictive, or that stays wet for long.

Best Clothing for Rafting

Swimsuit or Quick-Dry Clothes
You will get wet—completely.

The best option is:

Swimsuit
Rash guard or dry-fit shirt
Lightweight shorts

These materials dry quickly and keep you comfortable throughout the tour.

Water Shoes or Secure Sandals
Footwear is critical.

Choose:

Water shoes
Closed-toe sandals with straps

Avoid:

Flip-flops (they will fall off)
Barefoot (not safe)

Sun Protection

Even on cloudy days, the tropical sun is strong.

Bring:

Waterproof sunscreen
Hat (optional, but secure)
Sunglasses with a strap

What NOT to Wear Rafting

Avoid these common mistakes:

Cotton clothing (stays wet and heavy)
Jeans or heavy fabrics
Loose sandals or flip-flops
Jewelry or valuables

If it can fall off or get ruined, don’t bring it.

What to Bring for Your Rafting Tour

To stay comfortable before and after the tour:

Towel
Change of clothes
Dry bag (optional)
Waterproof phone case (optional)

Our tours include transportation and storage, so you won’t need to carry everything on the raft.

Pro Tips for Rafting in Manuel Antonio

If you’re rafting near Manuel Antonio or Quepos:

Expect warm water and tropical weather year-round
Morning tours are usually more comfortable
Lightweight clothing is always the best choice

Ready for Your Rafting Adventure?

Now that you know what to wear, you’re ready to enjoy one of the most exciting outdoor experiences in Costa Rica.

If you’re looking for a beginner-friendly option, check out our Savegre River rafting tour from Manuel Antonio—perfect for first-time rafters and families.