When it comes to adventure, white water rafting has it all: access to some of the earth’s most remote places, incredible scenery, and churning rapids. So, whether you enjoy being thrown about through the rough waters, or perhaps more of a frothy, friendlier rapid, the world is full of rivers to suit every kind of rafter. In fact, there are universal rafting classifications that rate the level of difficulty for each one, making it easier for you to determine which rivers are best suited to your needs.
We have put together this handy list of some of the world’s best rivers for rafting that includes options for rafters who are both experienced or just starting out. Regardless of your rafting preferences or level of experience, the most important things are that you have plenty of fun while out on the rapids, and that you stay safe as you embark on what is sure to be a thrilling adventure.
Colorado River
Also known as the American Nile, the Colorado River, which runs through the United States’ Arizona and Utah, is best visited between April and October, and offers a wild ride through the Grand Canyon, one of the planet’s most famed natural wonders. This river is considered to be the big daddy of whitewater as it has something for everyone. It measures an astonishing 226 miles, and along that distance, rafters can look forward to gentle sections of drifting, as well as big waves and big holes.
Zambezi River
If it’s an intense, adrenaline-filled day trip you’re after, look no further than the Zambezi River. Bakota Gorge is the world’s most intense single day whitewater trip, and the best time to visit it is between June and March each year. This one is not for the faint-hearted, and rafting operators have nicknamed it the “Slam-bezi” as a result. The gorge begins close to the base of Victoria Falls and measures roughly 17 miles of non-stop pummeling rafting real estate.
Rangitikei
New Zealand’s North Island is home to Rangitikei, a short but sharp stream of epic whitewater. Perfect for rafting at any time of the year, this is undoubtedly the country’s top spot. While the start of it may be calm and picturesque, once it reaches the gorge, you can expect to encounter 10 wild rapids, each of which is separated by deep pools that make for the perfect adrenaline-filled adventure.
Sjoa River
Norway’s breathtaking Sjoa River is perfect for rafters of every level of experience and it’s as exciting to explore as playing blackjack. Surrounded by picturesque scenery, if you are planning a visit, you should aim to go between May and October for the best rafting conditions.
The river feeds through beautiful narrow canyons and past tall waterfalls and is fed by glaciers, which makes the water icy. The Heidal section, the river’s most famous, provides roughly 10 miles of smooth rapids that vary in size. A little bit further up the hill is the Aseng Canyon, which is much bigger and a lot more challenging to complete.