Our expertise
Haven’t tried Rafting? Here’s why you should
By Dallal, Adventure travel expert
My love of rafting started when I lived in Switzerland for a year.
I spent a lot of time in Interlaken – a place that bills itself as the extreme sports capital of the world, and in many ways, lives up to the name. The thrill of moving with the river, sometimes surging through rapids, sometimes drifting past forested banks, stayed with me long after I left.
Since then, I’ve taken to rivers in all sorts of ways: rafting, kayaking, paddleboarding, even the odd surfboard. But there’s something uniquely exhilarating about rafting, especially when the setting is as wild as the water.
Dallal BenRomdhane
With a goal to visit every US state and a passion for ancient civilisations, Dallal designs thoughtful, immersive trips that feel personal at every step. Her favourite areas of expertise are North America, North Africa and the Maldives.
A rafting memory I’ll never forget.
One of my favourite travel experiences ever involved rafting into my jungle lodge in Costa Rica: down class III rapids, no less. That’s mid-level in rafting terms: thrilling enough to make your heart race, but not so intense that you can’t look up and take in the landscape around you.
The journey took us deep into the rainforest, past hanging vines, screeching toucans and misty green cliffs. There were no roads. No traffic. Just the river and the people you’re paddling with. By the time we reached the lodge, we were soaked, grinning and completely in sync – with the water and each other.
A bonding experience (with added adrenaline).
Rafting isn’t just an adrenaline activity, it’s a brilliant way to connect. You rely on your guide, you move as a team and you’re all in it together. That makes it especially great for families or small groups travelling together. Everyone has a role, everyone gets wet and you end up sharing stories that last well beyond the trip.
The river doesn’t need to be wild, either. In many destinations, you can opt for gentler rafting or even float-style experiences that are all about the scenery and serenity rather than speed. I’ve done both, and both are unforgettable in their own way.
Why it pays to know the right places.
As with most outdoor adventures, rafting is only as good as your outfitter. The best guides know the river inside out – how to read the water, navigate the route and create an experience that feels safe, exciting and in tune with the environment.
At Travelwise, we work closely with trusted local experts.
In places like Costa Rica, Peru, Canada, Iceland and beyond, making sure every experience is right for the traveller, the season and the river itself.
Rafting doesn’t always make the top of the travel wishlist – but once people try it, they often want to do it again and again. For me, it’s the perfect mix of movement, nature and joy. And in some places, it’s the best way to arrive!
