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Safety Tips for River Trips in Peru

Tips to help you choose a good rafting ouftitters for your rafting vacation

Introduction

At River Explorers, we strive to set our safety standards at the highest level possible on the river. White water rafting has become a very popular adventure activity among visitors to Peru for their challenging and exciting rivers.

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Rafting is fun, but we cannot forget that whitewater rafting involve risk due to the elements of nature. No matter how challenging or easy your river rafting experience might be; there are a few basic steps that you and your family can take to insure that your white water rafting experience in Cusco Peru is as safe as possible.

River Explorers operates rafting since 2000 and with an experience of more than 25 years on this field we offer tips for choosing the safest white water rafting outfitter.

The upper Urubamba River section in Cusco area offers great rafting day activities, guests experiences nice huge waves with volume of water, it’s a nice exciting adventure. However, be careful, people drowned on the same section of river with the same rafting outfitter where guest have great experiences before.

Our priority is our guest’s personal safety. Our decisions are made related on what is best for our clients, money aside, so guest can experience the best safe adventure possible.

Search

When choosing the right outfitter for rafting in Peru, investigate a little about the outfitter you will like to use, ask them questions that will help you arrange a fun, memorable and especially a safe rafting adventure.

Every rafting tour should be fun but most importantly it should be safe. Rafting accidents doesn’t happen everyday, but it can happen and maybe this can happen on the day of your tour. TripAdvisor is one of the main site that tourist will relie to choose a rafting company, but BE CAREFUL, even in TripAdvisor rafting outfitter with good rankings can be the ones that you need to avoid. These 2 tips below will give you information to find the list reliable rafting outfitter for your vacation.

  • Type in Google “name of the company” and then “rafting accidents”
  • Type in Google “name of the company” and then “accidentes de canotaje”

 
Done with your research? probably by now you will get surprised than even companies with excellent reviews in TripAdvisor are the list reliable company for rafting.

All the gear need to pass full inspection to get a certificate to operate rafting excursions. Up to date, well-kept rafts, clean, wet-suits, life jackets, paddles and helmets make a whitewater activity more enjoyable and safer. A rafting outfitter should sanitize its neoprene wet-suits after every use, and check the life vests for perfect flotation. Read more about the Peru Rafting rules and regulations

It takes years of training to learn and master the ability to guide commercial whitewater groups. An experience guide make a huge difference, they are professional, confident and comfortable on the river putting clients at comfort so they can have a fun the trip. *Safety kayaks or kataraft need to be in the same conditions as the guides with passengers.

Business success come from happy customers. Make your research, google it write this phrases “name of company rafting accidents”, travel websites such as Lonely Planet, Foot Print, Travel Blog, TripAdvisor provides helpful advice and reports.

Have a special consideration in safety, using the amount of safety kayaks or cataract per boat, condition of transportation vehicles, how often life vest and rafts are replaced and whether if wet suit are full cover, on a cold weather this can make a big difference.

Planning whitewater vacation in Peru can take a lot of time and research. Look for an outfitter with tour options on multiple days and different rivers, for different levels ranging from novices to experts, with camping and activity programs. You can save time by choosing a company that include lots of options and can help you planning the perfect tour for the ability and needs of what you are looking for.

This is a very important question, there are dozens of happy clients leaving rafting tours every day in Cusco. However, accidents happened with the same companies, in the same section that this happy clients finished their tours.

The price? There are about 8 rafting outfitters running rafting tours in Cusco. There is a big wide price range, depending on the river, so determining safety is more valuable about the money. Prices ranges from very cheap to expensive (don’t go with the cheapest even if this is for a half day tours) but even in the case of expensive this prices are fairly cheap comparing with prices of another countries.

If the company offers tours for, novices, intermediate and advance boaters. Is the outfitter known for its persistence on safety and quality? Look for an outfitter that offers and explains the convenient section for your ability

The minsitry of tourims is the only enity who certified rafting compnaies. 

10 Essential Safety Tips for Rafting in Peru: Ensure a Thrilling and Safe Whitewater Experience

By following these safety tips, you can ensure a thrilling and safe river rafting experience in Peru. Remember, safety first, adventure second! Enjoy the ride!
Before your trip

Choose a Licensed Outfitter

Research and select a licensed and professional river rafting outfitter. Ensure they have a good reputation and adhere to safety standards.

Swimming Ability

Before embarking on your rafting journey, be confident in your swimming abilities. Feeling comfortable with water is crucial for your safety.

Medical Conditions

Inform your river outfitter of any medical conditions or allergies, especially related to insects if you’re going on expedition trips.

Wear a Life Jacket

Always wear a properly fitted life jacket throughout the rafting trip and make sure that your life jacket is not only snugly fitted but also securely buckled. This essential piece of safety equipment ensures that you are protected and buoyant in case of any unexpected situations on the water. By wearing a properly fitted life jacket, you can fully enjoy the excitement of rafting while prioritizing your safety above all else.

Listen to Guides

Pay attention to your river guides; they’re trained to keep you safe. Follow their instructions diligently and without hesitation, as they possess a wealth of knowledge that guarantees a safe and enjoyable journey for all participants.

Safety Briefing

Listen carefully to the safety briefing provided by your guides before starting the trip. Understand all instructions and ask questions if anything is unclear.

Learn the Commands

It is essential to thoroughly acquaint yourself with all the rafting commands that are expertly provided by your experienced guides. By familiarizing yourself with these important instructions, you will not only enhance your safety and enjoyment but also contribute positively to the overall success of the rafting expedition.

Swimming Techniques

Learn and understand proper swimming techniques recommended for river rafting. Enhancing your proficiency in these techniques will not only ensure your safety but also optimize your overall river rafting experience, enabling you to navigate challenging waters with confidence and skill.

Proper Footwear

Wear appropriate footwear such as old sneakers, water shoes, or sandals with ankle straps. Avoid flip flops or bare feet.

Stay Low in Moving Currents

Never stand up in moving current. If you fall into the water, float on your back with toes pointed up and facing downstream.

Dress Appropriately

Most outfitters in Peru should provide adequate rafting gear tailored to the river’s level and, very importantly, the water temperature. This may include full-length wetsuits of appropriate thickness, as well as windbreakers. Another consideration is to avoid wearing cotton and opt for breathable materials such as synthetics or wool instead.

Avoid Alcohol and Drugs

Avoid consuming alcohol, especially when embarking on a rafting trip in a cold river, as it can increase the risk of hypothermia. Refrain from using illegal substances during your rafting adventure as it endangers both yourself and others.

Avoid Debris

In the unfortunate event of falling out of the boat, it is crucial to maintain utmost caution and stay clear of any nearby trees, branches, or clusters of rocks that may pose a potential threat. This proactive measure is essential in avoiding any accidents or injuries that could occur in such a situation.