Whitewater Rafting

Whitewater rafting is a perfect way to combine a love for the outdoors and the rushing thrill of taking on nature’s elements. There is nothing like driving through a rushing whorl of water, being splashed in the face bouncing in your seat with the feeling that you are moments away from disaster. Best of all, whitewater rafting is one of the safest adventure sports it exists, with national safety standards followed by every principal outfitter in North America.

Every state and province in North America offers several whitewater rafting experiences on various river routes. Beginners can try out smaller rapids in the Class I-III range. While thrill-seekers can try out rapids classified IV and V. If you are an ultra adventure seeker, however, you might be out of luck. North America does have a few of the most dangerous Class VI rapids. But they are seldom used by even the hardiest rafting enthusiasts, and no outfitters offer tours on them. If you want to defy death, other places in the world offer unbelievably dangerous raft rides. For instance, Africa offers several Class VI river tours, where adrenaline lovers not only have to contend with deadly rapids. Yet also with wildlife hazards such as crocodiles and hippos, even in the safest areas.

For those who wish to enjoy a safe, domestic rafting experience, there are many options for the duration of rafting trips and costs. All well-established and well-used rafting companies employ highly trained guides and high-quality equipment for personal safety and rafting. The tour guides know their routes and rapids, as they know their houses. It can be counted on to guide you along your way safely and is reliable in the event of an emergency, should one occur.

However, there are standard elements that a person who decides to try a whitewater rafting experience should remember. Footwear appropriate for the type of site should be worn, and these shoes should fit well and be capable of getting wet and dry quickly. Whitewater rafters should also keep in mind the harmful effects of UV rays and bring along sunglasses and sunscreen. In most cases, these items will be available at the supplier’s store if you forget them. But they will be considerably more expensive than if you had remembered them yourself.

Whitewater rafting is a perfect way to satisfy your inner thrill-seeker and get you in touch with areas of nature that might otherwise be inaccessible. Despite this, if it is a family vacation, remember to call the organizer in advance and find out the recommended age limits for your excursions. Whitewater rafting is usually not recommended for children under eight years of age.