Colombia has over 1000 rivers, and as such
there's great potential for all types of rafting. Though rafting in
Colombia is growing in popularity, it is not yet a major adventure
sport.
There are some great white water rafting
opportunities near San Gil
on Rio Fonce (Grade 1 to 4), Rio Chicamocha (Grade 4) and Rio Suarez
(Grade 4+). Local tour operators offering whitewater rafting tours in
San Gil include Aventura Total, Colombia Rafting Expeditions, Macondo
Adventures, Planeta Azul and Rios y Canoas. A 90 minute rafting tour
from San Gil typically costs about $15 per person.
If you are in Bogota,
there's nearby rafting tours available on Rio Negro (Grade 3), which is
100km west of the capital. Alternatively, head East from Bogota to the
plains of Los Llanos
for further rafting opportunities. In San
Agustin one can also raft the Magdalena River.
Those who don't enjoy the buzz and rush of
whitewater rafting will find the more tranquil balsa rafting
far more appealing. Balsa rafting is a relatively new type of tourism
activity in South America, but one that is highly memorable. Balsa
rafts are an indigenous design made from local balsa wood (extremely
light), plus bamboo, to create a raft that simply glides down rivers,
though wind power is sometimes used in conjunction. Balsa rafts have
been used throughout North-western South America for many centuries,
and Thor Heyerdahl used this raft design for his infamous Kon Tiki
Expedition. The best spot for balsa rafting in Colombia in in Quindio
department, along the tranquil but beautiful Rio La Vieja. Check out
www.balsaje.4t.com - don't be surprised by the dodgy homepage - click
the links in Spanish.
