Do you love whitewater rafting? Just put on your helmet and strap on your life vest. We are going to tell you about the best places in the world where you can paddle through the currents and bounce over the tumultuous rapids to give your adrenaline a pump. Have a look at them and get ready:
Colorado River
Let us start with the highly famed Colorado River, which is flowing through the south-west region of the United States and north-west part of Mexico. The 1,450 mile long dazzling river has carved the Grand Canyon, a steep-sided canyon eminent for its awe-inspiring size, sharp edges, soaring rock formations and gorgeous landscape. Basically, a 226-mile long section of the river, which runs through three adjacent states – Colorado, Arizona and Utah, can be accessed by the rafters for combating the strong rapids and gaining an amazing experience. Rafting through this river is also a wonderful idea when there is no powerful tide. It can give you a distinctive view of the magnificent Grand Canyon, prehistoric Indian ruins, pedestrian-only trails stretched for miles, multiple base camps set along the coastal border, and so on.
Zambezi River
When it comes to the best places in the world to enjoy whitewater rafting, the Zambezi River should come at the second position in the lift. The 2,574 km. river is ranked fourth in Africa in terms of length. Starting from Zambia, it runs through Angola, Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe and meets the Indian Ocean at Mozambique. The best part of this river is Victoria Falls, also popularly known as ‘Mosi-oa-Tunya’, and experienced rafters can certainly expect an adventurous journey here. According to experts, the rapids present at this section of the Zambezi River are mostly Class IV ones. Apart from an adrenaline rash, you can also get to see a number of hippopotamuses and crocodiles along the coastline, and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of the natural setting during the activity.
Ottawa River
Whether you are a ‘newbie’ in whitewater rafting or a pro having necessary skills and enough experience, the Ottawa River can always offer you the perfect challenges as per your level of efficiency. It is one of the most prominent rivers in Canada that acts as the border between two neighboring provinces – Quebec and Ontario. The Ottawa River comprises two distinct sections, which are easily accessed by interested rafters. The faster section is defined by its powerful rapids and is undoubtedly a true pleasure for the most advanced rafters. On the other hand, the slower section consists of tepid water, unruffled stretches and eye-catching landscape. It is ideal for budding rapid riders who want to make the most of their journeys without facing confrontations.
Pacuare River
Next comes the beautiful Pacuare River or Rio Pacuare, which is also considered as one of the best destinations for adventurers looking for a thrilling rafting experience. Located in Costa Rica, this river has earned fame for the captivating beauty of its surroundings. From the Cordillera de Talamanca to the Caribbean Sea, the 108 km long stream comprises 16 different sections having a variety of rapids. However, three most common of them are ‘the upper upper’ (16 miles long), ‘the upper’ (10 miles long) and ‘the lower’ (23 miles long), where you can encounter Class III and Class IV rapids. While enjoying the activity, you can also have a glimpse of the lush rainforests situated along the edges of the river. It is also the home to wild animals (monkeys, jaguars, etc.) and birds.
Futaleufu River, Chile
As it is a discussion about the most excellent places to take pleasure in whitewater rafting, how could we keep the Futaleufu River out of the list? Well, this beautiful river has blue waters, which are nothing but the melted deposits of several unsorted glacial tills. The Futaleufu starts from the northern part of Patagonia, flows through the celebrated Andes Mountains as well as the border of the Republic of Chile and meets the Yelcho Lake finally. It is filled by the water that comes from various lakes present in Andes and first-time rafters can enjoy travelling through the calm stretches. But if you are seeking something more, there are rough Class IV rapids to offer you the most exciting experience. Well-equipped river camps are another attraction of this place. You can find comfortable beds, hot tubs and warm showers in these permanent campsites.
Middle Fork of the Salmon River
The Middle Fork of the Salmon River is another famous site in Idaho in North America. It is also widely popular for its enthralling whitewater rafting experiences. The 180 km long offshoot of the Salmon River offers an elevation that is as high as 7,000 feet above the level of sea and drops up to 3,900 feet. With so many features and around 100 rapids, the Middle Fork has to offer to the adventurers a lot. Apart from this wonderful outdoor activity, you can also enjoy the pictorial view of lush green forest and jagged landscape throughout your journey.