Rafting has become one of the most popular adventure sports in the world. From family groups to expert rapid-riders, it’s a fun, adrenaline-pumping activity that so many enjoy. . Some people even like to travel the world via rafting trips, so here’s our guide to some of the best rafting experiences on the planet!
Europe
Rafting opportunities in Europe are plentiful, with several great destinations to choose from. For beauty, few places can match rafting the Una River in Croatia and it also has the bonus of being able to cater to all levels. For more experienced rafters, challenging and thrilling rafting begins just downstream from Strbacki Buk Waterfall so keep your eyes peeled and have your oars at the ready.
Austria’s Tyrol region is considered by many to be the epicenter of rafting in Europe. It can be crowded during the summer months, but with good reason as this is a top spot for whitewater rafting. Remember to stay on the lookout for the thrilling courses on the Inn River!
Africa
The Zambezi River below the incredible Victoria Falls is considered by many to be the best whitewater rafting experience in the world. The level of the water changes throughout the year so depending on when you visit you will potentially have a quite different experience. Zambezi river rafting is at least available throughout the year with low water being July through to January while high water is generally February to June.
Rafting in Uganda offers a fantastic experience too. No trip to the African continent is complete without seeing the Nile. Jinja, Uganda is a great place to take a trip down the famous river and will leave you buzzing for days. If you want to get your adrenaline pumping then the 12-meter drop on a section of the river called Overtime will test even the most experienced rafters.
Asia
With its vast terrain, Asia presents a huge array of rafting experiences. Southeast Asia is especially brimming with rafting hotspots so it can be tricky to pick out just one or two destinations. The landlocked nation of Laos is a top pick with its mountainous and narrow rivers topography. Vang Vieng is famous for its tubing options, but head further north to the Nam Ha River and you can find some perfect rafting opportunities at varying difficulty levels.
The small town of Pai in Northern Thailand is famed on the backpacker trail for its chilled-out vibes, but it is also a good base to go on some adventurous trips including whitewater rafting. The best way to experience Pai River rafting is to take a two-day, overnight trip so you can get the most out of the experience.
Oceania
New Zealand has plenty of rafting hotspots with the Kaituna River at the top of many people’s list as one of the best around. Located in Rotorua, New Zealand, this river offers a real challenge to even the most adventurous rafters with its fast rapids and a famous seven-meter drop that is ideal for adrenaline junkies.
Australia also contains some superb places to raft with the Tully River in Cairns, Queensland being a highlight for many. The white water rapids flow through a world heritage rainforest, below waterfalls and gorge walls – an incredibly beautiful setting! Tully River rafting is suitable for all levels.
South America
Rafting in Chile is home to some incredible scenery from north to south. While you won’t find much in the way of rafting opportunities in the deserted north, the south is full of rafting spots. The highlight for many is Futaleufú, which can be found in the middle of Chilean Patagonia, a real beauty spot. Futaleufú rafting is considered one of the three best destinations in the world to deal with high-intensity rapids with its wide flow, deep descents, and class V rapids that even test the experts.
Baños in Ecuador offers a variety of rafting trips to suit all levels. Located at the beginning of the incredible Amazon rainforest, the rivers around Banos also take you past some wonderful Andean mountain landscapes. Plenty of courses and options are available here.
North America
And finally, we might be biased but the Ocoee river in Tennessee is one of the best rafting destinations in the world. It is America’s favorite rafting spot for a reason so why not take a trip with Cascade Outdoors. We have many Chattanooga Whitewater rafting trips to suit all levels.
