RAFTING & KAYAKING

Rafting & Kayaking in Ecuador

Ecuador has been described by many as a whitewater paradise. The country is known for its tropical rainforests, warm waters, and numerous easily accessible rivers concentrated in a small area. All of this has made Ecuador into a “must visit” place for avid rafters and kayakers from all over the world. Just think, where else can you raft through steamy jungles, plunge through narrow gorges, paddle through high mountain valleys, and be on the same river? Many of these rivers flow into the headwaters of the Amazon Basin, and as such in these areas you have comfortable water temperatures. If rafting or kayaking is something you are interested in, you may want to consider spending some time on the rivers in Ecuador.

Please note that additional info (prices, activities, etc) are found to the right of this pages.

Here are just a few of the rivers you may want to consider rafting or kayaking on. There are many others that are not listed.

On the eastern side of the Andes one finds the Amazon basin and some fantastic jungle rivers. In comparison to the rivers on the western side of the Andes, these rivers are bigger and offer river runs throughout the year. If you are looking for some great rafting or kayaking, while at the same time experiencing the rainforest, then this is the place to go. Many tour companies will combine rafting trips with excursions into the surrounding jungle. Trips can range anywhere from 1-5 days.

One of the most popular rivers to run is the Rio Napo. This river is one of the major tributaries that feed into the Amazon River. Most of the rapids on this river are classified as Class 3. The river definitely offers a little something for everyone. You will experience incredible jungle scenery, thrilling rapids, some calm areas of water, plus much more. The highest water levels tend to be from March through October.

Another river worth visiting is the Rio Misahualli. This river is for more experienced individuals, with rapids ranging from Class 4 and above. Once again you will be traveling through some spectacular jungle areas. You will however spend time traveling through some canyons and gorges. This river is normally run from October through March.

On the other side of the Andes (the western side) runs two very popular rivers named the Rio Blanco and the Rio Toachi. Due to close proximity to Quito, the Rio Toachi is the most popular river to raft in Ecuador. This river offers mainly Class 3 rapids with a few Class 4 rapids. The best time of the year for this river is from January through May.

The Rio Blanco is made up of Class 3 rapids and is a great option as well. Note: further down the river the Rio Blanco and the Rio Toachi combine. The rapids are challenging and the scenery around this river makes it a worthwhile stop.

How Can You Do A Trip?

It is possible to contact an organization and set up one of these trips prior to your departure to Ecuador. Another option and one that is frequently used (and which we recommend) is to check with the staff at our partner Spanish language schools. These people help set up trips for our clients on a frequent basis. They will let you know which river is currently offering the best experience and will help to set you up with reputable rafting companies. Additionally you are very likely to find some other people from the school who will want to go with you. It is always more fun when you have a group going together.

So if you are planning on going to Ecuador, you should definitely consider rafting on one of the country’s majestic rivers.