12 Best places to go white-water rafting

South America’s best adrenaline rafting is this glassy-clear, glacial river amidst the jaw-dropping scenery of Patagonia. It’s a day trip to tackle 40 miles of some of the toughest Grade III-V rapids anywhere. – the river’s name is derived from a local Tehuelche Indian word meaning ‘big, big river’ and it doesn’t disappoint. December to March.

The Colorado River that carves through the Canyon has 225 miles of rapids galore – though most of relatively low grade; more a trip for the feint-hearted than the daredevil. They’re fun though, and what incredible scenery. 1-14 day trips are run by the native Hualapai Indians, with camping by the river. April to September.

The Iguazu River, translated as ‘Great Water’ has a variety of rapids of varied levels. But what makes it special is the setting – raft down valleys of dense, pristine rainforest, past cascading waterfalls, with monkeys hooting in the background and colourful toucans flying by. Pre- or post-trip, you can visit the world-famous Iguazu Falls.

Queenstown’s original adrenaline-pumping adventure has two excellent options, in this ‘Lords of the Rings’-esque landscape. There are grade 2-3 rapids on the Kawarau River, or grade 3-5 rapids on the Shotover River and a narrow passage called Skippers Canyon, which was carved by gold miners more than 120 years ago. All year round.

If a multi-day, white-water rafting adventure in pristine wilderness is what you’re seeking, then head to Canada’s best river for a week-long odyssey. Tackle Class IV and V rapids as journey through pine-clad granite canyons, camp out on river banks under star-studded skies, wildlife-spotting for bears, moose and ospreys. May to September.

Arguably the US’s best white-water river, there are over 300 Class III-IV rapids in a 100-mile stretch of near continuous white-water on the river’s Middle Fork. Trips start at Boundary Creek, then it’s a 5- to 6-day passage through spectacular, untouched wilderness. Daredevils can extend a few extra days to tackle the biggest rapids at the end. There are easier grade I-III options on other tributaries for families and scaredy cats. May to September.

Just south of Italy’s scenic Dolomites is the location for this multi-level white-water rafting river, suitable for anyone from families to adrenaline-junkies. There are 28km of Class III, IV and V rapids on a spectacular stretch through the gorges of Mostizzolo and across the remote Val di Sole (Sun Valley). Half- and full-day trips run from June to September.

Costa Rica’s famous white-water river ­– Central America’s best – is home to a series of Class III to V rapids that cascade down a series of slopes, through a canyon wrapped in wildlife-filled virgin rainforest. There are 38 individual rapids in all, spread out in three white-water sections over 67 miles, tackled in a day or overnight. March to November.

Northern Europe’s best white-water river is characterised by fast-flowing, crystal-clear water churning through narrows gorges, amid a glacial landscape of valleys, lakes and waterfalls. Rapids are Class II-V, handily grouped into easy and challenging stretches, so there’s something for all levels. Day trips from May to October.

Europe’s best white-water rafting is found in this, the deepest and longest canyon in Europe. 1.3 km deep and 78km long, the canyon is a stunning setting of cave-studded cliffs, rocky terraces, sandy beaches and churning turquoise water (that’s so clean, you can drink it). The 50+ rapids are Class III-IV. May-October, trips 1-3 days.

Australasia’s best rafting can be found 2 hours south of Cairns. The setting is valleys of pristine, centuries-old rainforest, dotted with ribbon waterfalls and aboriginal caves, and filled with exotic wildlife (including ‘salties’). The nearby Baron River has gentler Grade II-III rapids. Full-day trips run all year round, departing from Cairns, Townsville, Mission Beach and Feluga or you can self-drive to Tully and do half-day.

Africa’s best rafting is the famous white-water rapids of the fearsome Zambezi, as it funnels through the Batoka Gorge. Starting just below the mighty Victoria Falls, you’ll tackle Class IV and V rapids over 24km white-knuckle stretch, to the backdrop and roar of the Mosi-Oa-Tunya. Watch out for crocs and hippos! All year round.