RAFTING & KAYAKING
Rivers give unique access in South America
South America offers incredibly high quality whitewater rafting adventures. The Futaleufu river in Chile’s Patagonia region is consistently rated top 5 in the world for rafting! As natural corridors through the rain forests, cloud forests, and the Andes, South American rivers allow you to gain a unique perspective and access places rarely visited by outside travelers.
Whitewater rapid classifications explained
Keep in mind that individual rapid classifications can change with water levels, skill levels, equipment used, water temperature and time (what was once considered class 6 may now be 5+ and so on)
Relatively flat moving water. Very small waves, might require slight maneuvering.
Some splashy whitewater, maybe a few rocks, minimal maneuvering.
Fun whitewater, waves may be big, can include small drops, but no considerable danger. May require significant maneuvering.
More continuous whitewater, larger waves, more rocks, often has considerable drops, multiple maneuvers often needed. At higher flows, long class IV rapids can become class V. Remoteness and very cold water added to consequences can create IV+ or V conditions as well.
Very challenging whitewater, less predictable waves and holes, may be larger volume, often filled with many rocks and hazards, usually big drops, requires precise maneuvering and solid safety management practices. Stiff consequences for less than perfect performance.
Untamed Path offers rafting trips on class 2 to 5 stretches of whitewater rivers in South America.
Chile
One of the world’s foremost rafting locations, Chile will blow you away! Raft through valleys dominated by beautiful peaks, enjoying all manner of rapids along the way. No one goes this far to spend anything less than 5-7 days on the river. Our multi-day rafting excursion is chock full of adrenaline, and offers “glamping” accommodations. Who doesn’t want to end a day of intense rafting with a cold beer or wine in a hot-tub by the side of the river?!
When to go: November through April is ideal rafting weather in Patagonia.
Colombia
One of the most stunning places to raft in Colombia is the Chicamocha river, at the base of the Chicamocha canyon. Often called the Grand Canyon of South America, this natural phenomenon is awe-inspiring. There’s a new favorite view around every river bend.
When to go: December through March and then July and August are the driest times of the year in this area of Colombia. However river levels can be low so we recommend May-November, as even during the rainy season, the sun shines daily!