Rafting unleashed: Feel the adrenaline on the water
- Paul Aage Hegvik
- Jan 24
- 10 min read
Updated: Mar 10
«The river has taught me to listen; you will learn from it as well. The river knows everything; you can learn everything from it. You’ve already learned from the river that it’s good to fight your way down, to sink, to seek the depths».
These words come from the German-Swiss author Hermann Hesse (1877–1962), who was awarded the Nobel Prize in Literature in 1946. The quote is from his most popular novel, Steppenwolf, and it encapsulates the experience of rafting and life when you're battling the forces of nature.
Rafting has grown into a major international sport over the past few decades. The first unofficial World Championship took place in 1994 on the Dora Baltea River in Italy. The International Rafting Federation was established three years later, in 1997. The first official World Championship was held on the Reventazón and Pacuare Rivers in Costa Rica in 1998. The 19th World Championship was scheduled to take place in Ziyuan, China, on August 22, 2020.
Different Levels of Difficulty
–Rafting is fantastic for the whole family, and for people of all ages. I’ve had participants from ages five to eighty on these trips, says Tomas Hansson, a former rafting instructor and current kayaking instructor at Mad Goats Kayak School, to the norwegoan newspaper Dagsavisen. Originally from New Zealand, Hansson explains that there is a significant difference between perceived risk and actual risk.
–For example, if the raft flips, it's not dangerous, even though it may feel scary being underneath it for a couple of seconds.
The intensity of the experience depends on water levels and, of course, the river or route chosen.
–Rivers are usually divided into different levels. Grades 1 and 2 are suitable for families, while 3 and 4 are for adults and more experienced rafters, Hansson explains.
Top 10 Rafting Rivers in the World
Are you searching for the best rafting rivers globally? Rafael Gallo from Costa Rica, President of the International Rafting Federation, recommends ten rivers across different continents. He highlights his home country’s Pacuare River among the top ten. He operates a rafting tourism facility at Rios Tropicales Ecolodge in the area.
– I’m completely biased when I list this river as number one, he admits, explaining further: – The river has given me a great life with my rafting business and rainforest conservation project. I had the opportunity to save it from being dammed in the 1990s and protect its original beauty. It has all the qualities of an excellent rafting river: natural flow, it's long with several rapids and challenges, good grading, clean water, and all set in a lush rainforest, he says.
Gallo also points to the Tully River in Queensland, Australia, calling it a twin river to Pacuare. He also considers the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon, USA, to be among the top ten.
–Everyone should see this river. There is no doubt that it is one of the top ten in the world for its majesty and beauty. I was completely awestruck the first time I saw it.
Recommended rafting destinations around the world
Pacuare River, Costa Rica
How to Get There: Fly into Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica. From there, take a 2-hour drive to the Pacuare River.
Difficulty: Grade III-IV (moderate to challenging)
Accommodations:
Rios Tropicales Ecolodge – An eco-friendly lodge along the river, offering a unique experience with river views and outdoor activities. Approx. $150 per night.
Turrialba Hostel – A budget option with basic amenities, ideal for travelers who want a more affordable stay. Approx. $25–40 per night.
Casa Turire – A luxury boutique hotel with elegant rooms, a spa, and a pool, set near Turrialba. Approx. $200 per night.
Zambezi River, Zimbabwe
How to Get There: Fly into Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) from major international airports. From there, take a 20-minute drive to the river.
Difficulty: Grade V (extremely challenging)
Accommodations:
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge – Overlooks the Zambezi National Park, offering spacious rooms and great wildlife views. Approx. $250–400 per night.
The Kingdom at Victoria Falls – A vibrant, affordable hotel close to the falls, featuring a large pool and entertainment. Approx. $100–200 per night.
Elephant Hills Resort – A luxury resort with scenic views of the Zambezi River and golf course. Approx. $150–250 per night.
Colorado River, USA (Grand Canyon)
How to Get There: Fly into Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport (PHX) and drive about 3.5 hours to the Grand Canyon.
Difficulty: Grade III-V (challenging, depending on section)
Accommodations:
Grand Canyon Lodge – Located on the North Rim, offering historic cabins and breathtaking views. Approx. $200–400 per night.
El Tovar Hotel – A historic luxury hotel located on the South Rim, featuring old-world charm and fine dining. Approx. $250–500 per night.
Phantom Ranch – A rustic lodge at the bottom of the canyon, accessible by foot or raft. Approx. $70–200 per night (camping available).
Ganges River, India
How to Get There: Fly into Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi, then take a train or a 6-hour drive to Rishikesh.
Difficulty: Grade II-III (moderate)
Accommodations:
Aloha on the Ganges – A riverside resort with modern amenities and yoga options. Approx. $150–200 per night.
Ganga Kinare – A peaceful hotel overlooking the river, offering yoga and Ayurvedic treatments. Approx. $100–150 per night.
Camp Highwoods – A budget-friendly riverside camping experience with rafting tours. Approx. $50–80 per night.
Tully River, Australia
How to Get There: Fly into Cairns Airport (CNS), then drive about 1.5 hours to Tully.
Difficulty: Grade III-IV (moderate to challenging)
Accommodations:
Tully Motel – Budget accommodation with basic amenities. Approx. $80–120 per night.
Silky Oaks Lodge – A luxury rainforest retreat with treehouse accommodations. Approx. $300–600 per night.
Mena Creek Hotel – A quaint and affordable option near the Tully River. Approx. $90–150 per night.
Përse River, Albania
How to Get There: Fly into Tirana International Airport (TIA), then drive about 2.5 hours to Shkodra.
Difficulty: Grade IV (challenging)
Accommodations:
Hotel Tradita – A traditional hotel in Shkodra with cozy rooms and local culture. Approx. $70–120 per night.
Shkodra Lake Resort – A lakeside resort offering modern amenities and stunning views. Approx. $100–150 per night.
Hotel Colosseo – A modern hotel with a pool and restaurant, ideal for relaxing after rafting. Approx. $100–150 per night.
Noce River, Italy
How to Get There: Fly into Bolzano Airport (BZO) or Verona Airport (VRN), then drive to the Trentino region.
Difficulty: Grade III-IV (moderate to challenging)
Accommodations:
Hotel Kristal – A cozy mountain hotel with a spa, near the river. Approx. $100–150 per night.
Hotel Lago di Molveno – A lakeside hotel offering great views and easy access to rafting. Approx. $120–200 per night.
Agriturismo Maso Pin – A rural guesthouse offering an authentic experience, near the river. Approx. $80–120 per night.
Tara River, Montenegro – Paddle through the crystal-clear waters of one of Europe's most pristine rivers, surrounded by dramatic canyons and lush wilderness. Photo: Zachary Collier, Flickr CC BY 2.0
Tara River, Montenegro
How to Get There: Fly into Podgorica Airport (TGD) or Dubrovnik Airport (DBV) and drive to the Tara River.
Difficulty: Grade III-IV (moderate to challenging)
Accommodations:
Hotel Soa – A luxury hotel with scenic views of the Tara River. Approx. $150–250 per night.
Rafting Camp Tara – An ideal base for rafting, with simple, comfortable cabins. Approx. $50–80 per night.
Ethno Village Vrelo – A unique wooden cabin village located close to the river. Approx. $100–150 per night.
Futaleufu River, Chile
How to Get There: Fly into Santiago (SCL), then take a domestic flight to Chaitén and drive to the Futaleufu region.
Difficulty: Grade IV-V (extremely challenging)
Accommodations:
Futaleufu River Lodge – A luxury lodge offering direct access to the river and expert guides. Approx. $300–500 per night.
Tierra Patagonia Hotel & Spa – A high-end hotel with a focus on sustainability and outdoor adventures. Approx. $600–900 per night.
Explora Patagonia – An all-inclusive luxury resort with outdoor activities in the Patagonian wilderness. Approx. $600–900 per night.
Kicking Horse River, Canada
How to Get There: Fly into Calgary International Airport (YYC), then drive 3.5 hours to Golden, British Columbia.
Difficulty: Grade III-IV (moderate to challenging)
Accommodations:
Kicking Horse Mountain Resort – A ski-in, ski-out resort offering both winter and summer activities. Approx. $150–250 per night.
Golden Eco-Adventure Ranch – A cozy, adventure-focused ranch with various outdoor experiences. Approx. $100–150 per night.
The Peaks Lodge – A comfortable and modern lodge offering easy access to rafting and outdoor activities. Approx. $120–200 per night.
These destinations and accommodations offer a mix of high-adventure rafting and comfort, allowing you to choose the experience that best suits your needs and budget.
Essential tips and advice before your first rafting adventure
Rafting requires knowledge and adaptability. Here's a brief overview of what to expect.
Rafting grades
If you're new to rafting, it's crucial to understand that there are six different difficulty levels to consider.
Grade 1: Flat Water Very small ripples, requiring minimal maneuvering. (Skill level: very basic)
Grade 2: Moving Water Minor obstacles, very few or none. Some rough water, potentially some rocks. May require slight maneuvering. (Skill level: basic paddling skills)
Grade 3: Strong Current with Obstacles and Rapids Small waves, minor drops, but no significant danger. Requires good maneuvering. (Skill level: some rafting experience)
Grade 4: Strong Current with Major Rapids and Difficult Passages Medium waves, possibly rocks, significant drops. Sharp maneuvers are necessary. Risk of flipping. (Skill level: advanced rafting experience)
Grade 5: Extremely Difficult, for Experienced Enthusiasts OnlyLarge waves, high volume, significant rocks and hazards, possibility of large drops. Requires precise maneuvers. (Skill level: expert rafting skills)
Grade 6: Impossible to Raft Massive waves with a dramatically increased risk of serious injury or death. (Skill level: mastery of rafting, but even then, it might not be safe)
Safety first
Check the Company Before you go rafting, make sure to research the company you're booking with. Find out how long they've been in the industry and ensure they are certified by the International Rafting Federation (IRF) standards.
Follow the Safety Guidelines Listen carefully to everything your guide says, including safety tips and instructions.
Wear Your Life Jacket and Helmet Safety gear is essential. Ensure your life jacket and helmet fit securely and comfortably. Ask your rafting guide for help with the equipment if needed.
Packing list
Swimsuit or activewear
Sunscreen
Sunglasses (UV protection) with a strap
Secure, comfortable footwear
Water bottle
A change of clothes / dry clothes for after the trip
Water shoes or wetsuit (can be rented)
Life jacket and helmet (provided by the rafting company)
Note: Wear wool or thermal underwear for comfort.
Stay calm
The river can surprise you and may cause the raft to move quickly or unexpectedly. Keep calm to maintain control.
Swimming skills
While you can raft without knowing how to swim, it's highly recommended that you do. A life jacket will keep you afloat, but swimming skills provide added confidence, control, and less stress.
Waterproof essentials
Avoid bringing anything that isn’t waterproof.
24 words and expressions
Here are some common words and expressions related to rafting.
Raft – A flat, inflatable boat used in rafting.
Rapid – A section of the river where the water flows quickly and creates turbulence.
Grade/Classification – The difficulty level of a river or rapids, ranging from Grade 1 (easy) to Grade 6 (extremely difficult).
Flip – When a raft overturns, throwing everyone into the water.
Paddle – A tool used by rafters to steer and propel the raft.
Guide – A professional who leads and directs the rafting trip, ensuring safety.
Safety gear – Equipment like life jackets and helmets used to protect rafters.
Put-in – The starting point where rafters begin their journey on the river.
Take-out – The endpoint where the rafting trip concludes.
Throw bag – A rope bag used to throw a rope to someone in distress or to assist in a rescue.
Whitewater – Fast-moving, turbulent water, often found in rapids.
Downstream – The direction in which the river flows, towards the lower part of the river system.
Upstream – The opposite direction, going towards the source of the river.
Bucket seat – A seat in the raft designed for individual rafters.
Line of sight – The path or direction the raft should follow through the rapids.
Stabilize – The process of keeping the raft balanced and steady during a rough patch of water.
Stern – The back of the raft.
Bow – The front of the raft.
Eddy – A calm area of water where the current is weaker, often found behind obstacles like rocks.
Flip drill – A safety exercise where rafters practice how to right a flipped raft.
Rogue wave – An unexpected, large wave that can surprise rafters in the river.
Tackle – The equipment used in rafting, such as paddles and ropes.
Class I-VI – Classification of rapids, from easiest (Class I) to the most dangerous (Class VI).
Self-bailing raft – A type of raft designed to allow water to drain out quickly without manual intervention.
