The Río Cangrejal starts high in Pico Bonito National Park and runs past La Ceiba, about 20 minutes from downtown. House-sized granite boulders, clear water and jungle on both banks make it one of the best whitewater rivers in Central America, and the most popular adventure in town.
What to expect
It is a half-day trip. You are picked up in La Ceiba and fitted with a helmet, life jacket and paddle, and your guide gives a safety briefing before you get in the water: how to paddle, how to follow commands and what to do if you fall in. Then come the rapids, Class II to IV depending on the water level, with calm stretches to swim, jump off rocks and look for toucans and monkeys.
Good to know
- Length: half a day, usually leaving in the morning.
- Difficulty: fine for beginners in reasonable shape. No experience needed, but you must be able to follow instructions.
- Season: runs all year. In the rainiest months (roughly October to January) the river is higher and the rapids are stronger.
- What to bring: swimsuit, shoes that strap to your feet (no loose flip-flops), sunscreen, dry clothes and a towel.
- Minimum age: depends on the water level; ask when you book.
How to book
Book online with Rafting La Ceiba, a local outfitter with 10 years on the river.
Keep exploring
Pair rafting with a Pico Bonito hike, which starts in the same valley. You can also see all the things to do in La Ceiba or find hotels and restaurants in the business directory.
Photo: JMigdonio, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons.
