 |
Leading wild river trips around the globe for the past 35 years—and pioneering more than 70 first descents—we’ve put a lot of thought into why river trips are so alluring. For us, it's the fact that running a river is not only the most scenic but also the best way to access some of the world's most precious wilderness areas. It’s also the yin-and-yang dichotomy of how river trips provide both Mother Nature’s most thrilling rollercoaster ride, and a float so peaceful and relaxing you forget what day it is. And anytime you need a break from the water, you can always pull ashore for a hike to the top of the river canyon with a view to die for. But most of all, it’s sharing this experience with others—introducing newcomers to the rapids, and giving seasoned river rats the ride of their lives. Join us to discover the allure of the river—you’ll love every minute of it!
 |
Slide Show ~ River Rafting
We've been riding the world's rapids for more than 30 years - and have more than 70 first descents to our credit. Come with us on this virtual tour through time and around the world. |
Thirty+ Years of River Rafting
Who would have thought that two boyhood friends' successful descent of the Awash in 1973 would lead to the founding of one of the world's best international river rafting companies? Read on. |
 |
 |
Our Long List of Firsts
We have rafted more than 100 rivers, pioneering over 70 for the first time. Have a look of what we've done in the past, and what we're up to next. |
The Sobek Signature Series
Every year, we offer a classic Sobek river trip from the past, featuring the expertise of Sobek co-founder John Yost. From Papua New Guinea’s Watut to Peru’s Tambopata, and Tanzania’s Rufiji to Tasmania’s Franklin, join us on a ride through history into the future of whitewater adventuring.
|
 |
Our River Rafting Adventures in North America:
IDAHO ~ The Middle Fork of the Salmon River
A summer vacation requisite: a week of rafting on one of North America's premier wilderness rivers. Class II-IV rapids. Optional kayaking and easy day hikes. Ideal for families ($175 discount for children 9-15). 4 or 6 day trips. Easy. |
 |
 |
ALASKA ~ The Tatshenshini River
Enjoy spectacular Ice Age scenery as you float through the Tatshenshini/Alsek Wilderness Park, a huge area only accessible by the river. Class II-III rapids. Moderate day hikes. 9 days. Moderate. |
 |
ALASKA ~ The Kongakut River
Explore Alaska's Arctic National Wildlife Refuge during the summer solstice when the nearly 24-hour daylight is absolutely magical. Class III rapids. Moderate to challenging day hikes. 10 days. Moderate. |
 |
ALASKA ~ The Hulahula River
Ideal for the paddling enthusiast! See spectacular wildlife and breathtaking scenery as you float all the way across the coastal plain of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge out to the Beaufort Sea. Class III/IV rapids. Moderate to strenuous day hikes. 12 days. Moderate-Strenuous. |
ARIZONA ~ Rafting the Grand Canyon
Some say you haven't lived until you've taken the journey through Grand Canyon - a stunningly beautiful mile deep, six miles wide and 200 miles long gorge. Class IV+ rapids. Day hikes.15 days. |
 |
Our International River Rafting Adventures:
COSTA RICA~ Adventures in Costa Rica
Sea kayak, hike, and raft your way along Costa Rica's stunning coastal beaches and jungle waterways, including 3 days on the Pacuare River--one of the top 10 most beautiful rivers in the world! Class III/IV rapids; easy sea kayaking; easy to moderate nature walks. 10 days. Moderate. |
 |
BRAZIL ~ Jalapão & Río Adventure
Discover Brazil's best kept secret: Jalapão! Raft through a magical wilderness of translucent springs, waterfalls, golden sand dunes and 3,000-foot sandstone plateau. Class II-IV rapids; easy to moderate day hikes. 10 days. Moderate.
SPECIAL DEPARTURE ~ June 12-17, 2007
Raft Brazil’s Jalapão with Sobek Co-Founder Richard Bangs! |
 |
UZBEKISTAN & KYRGYZSTAN:
The Chatkal River
The fifth Sobek Signature Series revival trip (Sobek made the first western descent of the river in 1988), the Chatkal River flows out of Central Asia’s Tien Shan Mountains and runs through five magnificent canyons, past remote villages inhabited by people of Mongol and Turkic extraction and straight into the crossroads of Central Asia. Serious rafters and adventurers will find the deep gorges, clear water, fascinating history and culture, and adrenaline-pumping whitewater a simply irresistible combination. Class III-V rapids. 12 days. Strenuous. |
 |
|
CROATIA ~ Adventures in Croatia
From its ancient monasteries, modern vineyards and charming Old-World cities, to the roaring waterfalls, idyllic lakes and rivers, and the stunning Istrian coast, Croatia has it all—and we're going to enjoy it (on foot, by kayak or by raft!). Come discover the many cultural and natural wonders of Croatia. 11 days. Moderate.
|
 |
|
MONTENEGRO ~ Jewel of the Adriatic
Discover Montenegro, the gem of the former Yogoslavia, before the crowds arrive! We'll raft the gorgeous Tara River, enjoy exhilarating hikes in the peaks and valleys of Durmitor National Park, and explore Dubrovnik and smaller medieval walled villages complete with Venetian-style architecture and centuries-old Orthodox churches. Class III/IV; moderate hiking and easy touring. 10 days. Moderate.
|
 |
|
TANZANIA ~ Rufiji River Safari
An incredible float on the Rufiji River, a gentle meandering waterway bisecting Tanzania’s legendary Selous Game Reserve, Africa’s largest wildlife haven. The 6th annual entry in our popular Sobek Signature Series (which enables us to bring back one of our classic river trips each year!), the Rufiji River Safari is designed to allows us to experience Tanzania's fantastic wildlife viewing by raft and on foot—and without the crowds! 17 days. Moderate.
|
 |
 |
The Nitty-Gritty in Rafting Adventures
Rafting is more than riding rapids and getting wet. Here's all you need to know about: a typical day on the river; the kind of boats you'll be using, our superior safety record, and river classifications. |
|
