Rafting: How to Tame the Rivers on a Boat?

One of the most practiced adventure sports in Peru is Canoeing or Rafting, this is because our nature and geography have the perfect conditions for this sport. If you want to give it a try, you should consider the following recommendations.

Rafting Modalities

Central Command

In this modality, the guide positions himself in the center of the boat and directs it from there. He uses 2 paddles attached to the boat to propel it in the direction of the current.

 Photo: Natgeo

Paddle Command

This type of rafting is done with single-blade paddles and involves collective work directed by the guide, who is located at the back of the boat.

 Photo: Treksguide

Recommendations

Contact a company that offers this activity. Make sure they have an experienced guide and the necessary safety equipment (ropes, first aid kit, air pump).
Follow the guide's instructions, do not let yourself be carried away by excitement and listen carefully to ensure your safety and enjoyment. If you have any doubts, ask.
Wear appropriate clothing to get into the river, preferably quick-drying clothes such as lycra and swim trunks.
Use safety equipment ALL THE TIME, do not remove either the helmet or the life jacket; wearing them can save you from any accident.
Seek stability in the boat, adjust your position until you feel secure and well-balanced.
Remember to use sunscreen, water shoes or sandals, sunglasses with straps, and a change of dry clothes.
Do not bring handheld cameras or objects that may jump out of the boat during the journey.
Have fun, respect nature, and share your adventure.

 
Photo: Perurafting

Rapids Levels

Level I-II: Fun Rapids with regular difficulty and not much risk involved.
Level III-IV: These Rapids are more exciting, with high difficulty and some danger involved in navigating them.
Level V: This level requires an additional boat because of its intense difficulty level, they are very risky.
Level VI: Extreme risk, almost impossible to navigate, companies should not operate at this level.

Photo: OARS

Canoeing in Peru

In Peru, there are more than twelve rivers that exceed 600 km in length. The total length of the five longest rivers is close to 7,000 km, ideal for practicing different water and adventure sports.