Rafting Tips & Info

Whitewater rafting is a fun outdoor activity and a great way to enjoy the outdoors if you follow basic safety rules to insure that your white water rafting experience is a good one.

So, no matter how easy or challenging your rafting experience might be, keep in mind that you should always follow basic tips to ensure that your rafting experience is as safe as possible.

Safety should always be the priority for the company you choose to raft with. Different countries have different guidelines and regulations for rafting companies. Rafting companies do have different safety procedures, protocols, and levels of experience. If you're unsure where they stand, ask questions. If you don't like answers, do not use that company for your activity! It is always better to be safe than sorry.

RAFTING TIPS:

Educate yourself.
It's great that you want to try something new, but you have to know what rafting is, what to expect, and risks involved. If you are not good swimmer, try taking some swimming lessons before rafting.

Know your physical limitations.
As fun and exciting as it may be, many people forget that whitewater rafting is demanding extreme sport which can push you to endure some upper body exercises (sometimes for a couple of hours), unexpected swimming (sometimes in wild and cold waters) and entails other risks due to the elements of nature.

Choose a licensed and professional raft guide.
When shopping for a professional rafting guide, ask the right questions. See how long they have been in business, what kind of training they have and who manages their permit and training practices. Also ask about their rules and equipment. Make sure you can rely on the knowledge and expertise of your guide to safely navigate you down the river.

Pay attention during the safety briefing.
Before you get on the river you will be in safety briefing. Your guide will give you all the information you may need just in case. Pay attention, listen carefully and ask questions. Being familiar with safety procedures and related information is an important step to staying safe on the water.

Wear a life jacket, or personal flotation device (PFD) correctly.
Correctly fitted jacket will let you breathe easy, all buckles must be clipped, and it should be fitted snug to your body. Your life jacket should not be able to be pulled up over your head. For a perfect fit, always ask your professional guide to check fit of your jacket before rafting.

Always wear the protective gear.
Wear a helmet no matter what level of rafting you are participating in. Some rafting companies includes this gear as part of the package at no additional cost.

Wear the right outerwear.
Make sure you have the right outerwear for the day and season (sunburns, chills or hypothermia are no fun). Wearing a right outerwear (like wet suit, proper river shoes, and splash jacket,) can make the trip much more comfortable, allowing you to enjoy the thrill without the chill. Reputable rafting companies will include outerwear and gear in their package, or they can rent it to you. Find out before you book if the outwear and gear is included.

Be prepared for sunny clear days.
Sunburns can happen fast at higher elevation and near the reflection off the water. They can be severe. Wearing sunscreen, quick drying clothing (like polypro), and sunglasses with UV protection is important. Have straps for your sunglasses so you don't lose them.

Play your role and pay attention.
Everyone in the raft plays a role, so make sure you are paying attention and do as you're told. Your guide is in control and should be trained to know exactly how to handle any type of situation encountered while on the river.

No alcohol or drugs before rafting.
Being under the influence of alcohol or drugs is not a smart idea, because alcohol and drugs affect judgment, vision, balance and coordination. You should know that alcohol is the leading contributing factor in fatal incidents and is involved in about half of all deaths related to water activity.

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