Riding the Rapids: The Thrills of White Water Kayaking

“When in doubt, paddle out!”

Bow rudder. Rolling. Boofing. Wondering what I’m talking about? This is the thrilling world of white water kayaking. White water kayaking essentially involves kayaking in moving water, usually amidst gushing and rapidly flowing waves. It involves a lot of skill and even more technique. The reward? Pure adrenaline-pumping exhilaration!

So folks, grab your paddles and take your wandering heart for the ride of a lifetime on these top five white water kayaking rivers in the world.

1. Zambezi River, Zambia

Undoubtedly the most sought after river by white water kayakers, the Victoria Falls are the world’s tallest falls with a 350-foot drop. Extreme kayakers typically skirt the lip of the falls and then do the unthinkable, go over the edge. This is definitely not for those who suffer from vertigo! For the less adventurous, the calmer waters of the Zambezi above and below Victoria Falls offer challenging Class IV and V rapids to navigate. Don’t be surprised if you pass some elephants and hippos while paddling downstream.

Best Time to Visit: May and June are when the falls are at their fullest. Visiting from mid-July to mid-January is ideal when the volume of water makes the river easier to run.

Cost: A four-day kayaking camp including equipment, accommodation and transfers starts at USD 495

2. White Nile, Uganda

Considered the Mecca for freestyle paddlers, the White Nile in Uganda offers over 30 kilometers of hydraulic bliss. From beginners to expert levels, have a go at rapids across all grades on the world’s greatest river. Begin from Jinja, the source of the Nile River flowing from Lake Victoria, where placid and warm waters are home to tremendous birdlife along with spectacular tropical fauna and flora. As the river meanders further, the rapids go from mild to wild, perfect for experts to practice technical rolls and paddling maneuvers.

Cost: A one-day introduction kayaking course including an instructor, equipment and lunch starts at USD 115.

3. Grand Canyon, USA

In the state of Arizona, the Colorado River running through the Grand Canyon is a favorite amongst beginner and expert white water kayakers. The Grand Canyon is known for its striking beauty of gorges, rock faces and cliffs, and kayaking down the river gives you an opportunity to see the area like never before. Because of the flow and size of the river, rapids along the nearly 450 kilometers expanse are graded on a scale of 1 to 10 versus 1 to 6, which is usually the standard for grading rapids. Attempting to kayak the entire stretch can take up to 25 days but if you’re strapped for time, opt for a week-long expedition instead.

Best Time to Visit: All year round

Cost: A two-hour introductory kayak trip including a permit, instructor and equipment starts at USD 90.

4. Zanskar River, India

The Zanskar River is tucked away in the Himalayan wonderland of Ladakh. Passing through canyons untouched by civilizations, paddling the Zanskar is not for the inexperienced. With Class III and IV rapids, this high altitude river is one of the most picturesque, with views of narrow gorges giving way to postcard views of snowcapped mountains. At altitudes of over 4000 meters, the Zanskar challenges your paddling power.

Best Time to Visit: August to September

Cost: An 11-day expedition including domestic airfare, accommodation, food, certified guides and equipment starts at USD 2500.

5. Futaleufú, Chile

Hailed as kayaking ‘nirvana’ by the experts, the Futaleufú River lies in the North Patagonia region of Chile. It is divided in to upper and lower sections with the former boasting of Class V+ rapids like “Dynamite” and “The Gates of Inferno”. The latter is where you’ll encounter Class II+ rapids like “Home Free” and “Pillow”. These are just a few reasons why Futaleufú River is a premier white water kayaking destination!

Best Time to Visit: December to April

Cost: A week long expedition including local transportation, accommodation, food, certified guides and equipment starts at USD 2300.

Safety Tips to Keep in Mind: 

#1 If you’re a first time paddler, choose to go with an adventure tour operator. Make sure that the guides and instructors are certified and experienced.

#2 Listen carefully to the instructions being given to you. If you’re unsure of something, ask questions. Even if you’re an experienced swimmer, wear a life jacket and other safety equipment at all times.

#3 Pack smartly by leaving your valuables at home. A kayak has limited space and you can’t really carry a lot with you. Stick to the absolute essentials and put them in a waterproof bag.  

#4 For clothing, you’ll need sturdy outdoor sandals, a quick dry shirt and shorts. Don’t forget your shades and sunblock.

#5 Don’t forget to purchase travel insurance because you never know what comes your way when you’re running a river.

Have fun and just go with the flow…