Whitewater Rafting in the spray

River Grading

All river rapids are graded according to an international (albeit sometimes rough) standard.

The maximum grade of 6 is considered unrunnable for commercial rafts. So 5 is the maximum for normal human beings. If you’re not sure about all this adrenaline, head for a river showing grades of 2 and 3. Also, be aware that recent rainfall or early spring can swell a river and increase a rapids grade from 3 (moderate) to 5 (the limit of commercially runnable rapids). Typically, go in early spring season for the adventurous, later on for a more tranquil route.

Age limit

Age is no limit. Fitness generally is. Also remember that to reach many of the exhilarating rafting adventures you will be in remote areas where hygiene may be limited. So good general health is important. Remember if you don’t want to paddle so hard - ask to sit at the back or the middle of the raft. Let the young ones do more of the work! The water also hits them first.

How young can I be?

Typically, a major white water experience (rapid grades of 3 and above) will require that you are 15 years or older. Check with the operator.

Some operators (especially in the USA) work on the basis of weight (30kgs being the minimum). Other operators cater specifically for families and will work around the ages involved. (In Austria you can raft from the age of 6.) These operators will use more stable craft and may be more restrictive about when you can go - ie. when the river is safest, and may keep you to the calmer reaches of the river.

You’ll find many more family options in North America and in the Alps than in countries like Nepal and Borneo where the remoteness adds to the excitement of the journey.

Safety features to look for in a white water rafting company:

1. Each guide should carry a comprehensive first aid kit and hold a first aid certificate
2. Preferably the guide should hold a MARS (Medical Air Rescue Services) certificate
3. Preferably the safety should include a standby helicopter in the event of emergency
4. Trip leader should have radio contact
5. Safety kayakers should accompany the trips
6. Everyone should wear a buoyancy aid and a helmet

What happens if the raft flips over?

You swim. You’ll be wearing a life jacket. Just lean back, like you would in a bath, and you should find yourself in calm water very quickly - it just feels like an eternity.

Is there any wildlife in the Rivers?

Sometimes you will find crocodiles in the Zambezi, however, due to the fast moving water they are rarely a threat. Canoe trips on wider calmer water need to be more alert to wildlife dangers such as hippos.

Are there any water born illnesses?

Beware in remote places of water born illness such as Bilhazia. For a full list of the health risks in tropical places consider reading The ABC of Healthy Travel.