Chile Activities : Rafting

Description

Rafting is a sport that consists of sailing the waters of rough rivers on pneumatic vessels or rafts, that are maneuvered by expert guides who usually sit on the back of the raft. The rest of the participants are located on the sides, from where they help to control vessel.

Rafting is one of the most popular adventure sports, because practising it does not require a lot of preparation. The rafts usually seat between 4 and 8 passengers, and the difficulty and risk depend on the flow of the river, for each route covers a certain distance and a difficulty level (between 1,5 and 35 km).

This sport can be practised by families, enjoying the journey through easy rivers, but also by those who like the extra adrenaline proportioned by waterfalls and rapids.

History

Rafting was initially developed by navigators, who sailed rapids and water inclines in small boats and rafts. These abilities, necessary for exploring, hunting, and fishing, would later become a very popular form of entertainment in several regions of Europe and the United States.

Nowadays, several international rafting competitions are held. Emerging in the 50's, they have been historically dominated by the Europeans.

River Classification According to is Difficulty Level

Class I
Easy. Rapid flow with small waves and meanders. Few obstructions, all of which are obvious and easily surmountable with little training. The risk is low and self rescue is easy.

Class II
Beginner. Direct rapids, with clear and broad canals which are evident without previous exploration. Occasional maneuvering is required, but rocks and medium size waves are easily surmounted by trained paddlers. Little risk for swimmers, and group help is rarely required.

Class III
Intermediate. Rapids with high, irregular waves often capable of swamping a canoe. Narrow rapids that often require complex maneuvering and a precise control of the vessel. Big waves and strainers are easily avoidable. Previous exploration is recommended for non-experts. Injury to swimmers is rare and self-rescue is easy, but may require from the group to avoid prolonged swims.

Class IV
Advanced. Powerful, intense, predictable rapids, that require precise maneuvering in their turbulent waters. Depending on the characteristics of the river, large waves and holes may require fast maneuvering under pressure. Quick eddy turns are necessary to initiate other maneuvers, explore the rapids, or rest. Scouting is often necessary, and water conditions make self rescue a very difficult task. Group assistance is necessary and requires previously developed skills.

Class V
Expert. Extremely long, violent, and unobstructed rapids, which expose paddlers to big risks. Descents may present large, unavoidable waves and holes, steeps falls, and demanding and complex routes. There may be long distances between backwaters, which requires an excellent physical condition. Scouting is mandatory, and sometimes can be hard. Swimming is dangerous, and rescues are difficult even for experts.

Class VI
Extreme. This class of rapids is an example of difficulty, unpredictability and danger. Mistakes will lead to serious injuries and rescue may be not possible. For expert teams only, provided that all the necessary precautions have been taken.

Destinations

Rafting in Chile

"White water" fanatics consider the rivers of Chile to be of worldwide class. They are perfect for practicing rafting as well as kayaking. The rivers that get most of the attention are Bio-Bio and Futaleufu, both of which are class V. The other Chilean rivers fluctuate between classes III and IV.
Nevertheless, rafting in more tranquil waters is becoming an excellent choice for family trips, which combine the fun of descending a river while enjoying the scenery and nature.

Rivers for practicing rafting in Chile:

Central Chile

Maipo River: Metropolitan region, in the Melocoton sector, 22 kilometers (14 mi) from the small village of Guayacan. Season: from spring to summer. Class III and IV
Teno River: VII Region. Spring. Class III
Maule River: VII Region. Spring. Class III
Claro River: VII Region. Located in the Radal 7 Tazas National Reserve. Its waterfalls characterize it

Araucania and Lakes

Bío-Bío River: VIII Region. Southeast of Los Ángeles. Class V.
Trancura River: IX Region. 14 kilometers from Pucón. November to March. Class III and IV.
Petrohué River: X Región.

Patagonia

Futaleufú River: X Region. Located 155 kilometers southeast from Chaiten. From mid January to mid March. Class V
Espolon River: X Region. It is considered the training river for the Futaleufu
Baker River: XI Region of Aysen. Located 10 kilometers northeast of Cochrane. Summer. Class V
Serrano River: XII Region. Class I.

For more suggestions, check out our Destinations section.

Recommendations

Choose a reputable and experienced agency.
Demand qualified guides and complete safety equipment.
Being a good swimmer is a great advantage.

Equipment

In order to go rafting you only need adequate clothing for the season. Due to the low water temperature of some rivers, neoprene suits are used to insulate you from cold and humidity. Besides, rocks are always present, and falling from the raft is not rare, so wearing a helmet and a life jacket is essential.

The rest of the equipment is supplied by the agency with which you book your tour. This is the standard equipmet for going rafting: