If you’re looking to unleash your adventurous spirit, then you’ve come to the right place. Scotland is home to some of the best white water rafting experiences that the UK has to offer. From the adrenaline rush of the rapids to the stunning Scottish scenery, white water rafting in Scotland is an experience that should not be missed. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to know about white water rafting in Scotland.
What is White Water Rafting?
Understanding the Basics of Rafting
White water rafting is a thrilling water sport that involves navigating a river with a team of people using an inflatable raft. The aim is to work together to successfully navigate the rapids and reach the end of the route without falling out of the raft. However, you may not achieve this, especially on higher-grade rapids! All part of the experience. White water rafting is suitable for people of all ages and abilities, however, most commercial providers will have age restrictions depending on the river grade. Family trips down scenic rivers are available for all, as long as they are comfortable around water and are willing to get wet and have fun. Contact the providers listed below to get the most up-to-date information on age.
Types of Rapids You’ll Encounter
White water rafting involves navigating rapids of varying grades. Rapids are graded from 1 (the easiest – flat water ) to 6 (the most difficult – no way through, very dangerous). Most commercial white water rafting experiences in Scotland are grade 3, which are suitable for those with little to no experience. Grades 4 and 5 are reserved for the adrenaline junkies. And grade 6 rapids are not run and should be avoided for risk of serious injury or death.
Equipment You Need for Rafting
White water rafting requires certain pieces of equipment to ensure your safety. These include a helmet, a life jacket or buoyancy aid, a wetsuit or drysuit, and a paddle. Some providers may provide shoes and gloves depending on the weather. Most white water rafting providers in Scotland will provide you with all the necessary equipment, but it’s always a good idea to check beforehand. Some even offer free photos.
Where to Go White Water Rafting in Scotland?
Most white water rafting in Scotland will take place with an accredited and insured activity provider. Most rafting providers in Scotland will raft the rivers immediately around their area. Most Rafting providers are located in the highland Perthshire and FortWilliam or Aviemore locations. However, there is also an artificial rafting course in the heart of Glasgow. These are the main rivers for white water rafting in Scotland.
Video by Splash White Water Rafting
River Tay Rafting
- Name – The River Tay
- Location – Aberfeldy, Perthshire
- Grade -2, 3 and sometimes 4
- Companies – Splash, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland, Nae Limits, Free Spirits, The Rafting Company,
- River or Dam Fed – Rain and River fed, runs all year round.
- Experience Level – Beginner, Family. Still lots of fun!
The River Tay is the UK’s largest river by volume, and it’s one of Scotland’s most popular places for white water rafting. The section of the river that runs through the town of Aberfeldy is particularly popular for rafting, with rapids ranging from grade 2 to 3 in the Summer and 2 to 4 in the Winter. The River Tay is an excellent river for all the family, it has fun bouncy rapids and lots of opportunities to play games and have fun.
The river is rain-fed, meaning the levels are determined by the water that is fed into the river via the river’s catchment area. In the summer it can be fairly low and in the winter with snow melt and lots of rain, it completely transforms. This will be the same for almost all Scottish rain-fed rivers.
Best time to raft for fn and all the family – Summer.
Best time to raft for maximum adrenaline – Spring, Autumn, and Winter just after heavy rains!
Video by Splash White Water Rafting
River Tummel Rafting
- Name – The River Tummel
- Location – Pitlochry, Perthshire
- Grades – 2, 3 & 4
- Companies – Splash, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland, Nae Limits, Free Spirits, The Rafting Company,
- River or Dam Fed – Dam release – weekends June till September.
- Experience Level – No experience needed, but more challenging rapids than the Tay, may have a minimum age of 16.
The River Tummel is another popular destination for white water rafting in Scotland. This river offers some of the most exciting and challenging rapids in the country, with rapids ranging from grade 3 to 5. The rapids on the Tummel are dam release, which means they are only available at certain times of the year. The river is narrow and technical and culminates in a series of big, fun, adrenaline-packed rapids. The final rapid is a grade 4 twin waterfall.
Video by Unique Adventure Tours Scotland
River Findhorn Rafting
- Name – The River Findhorn
- Location – Aviemore/ Grantown On Spey area.
- Grades – 2, 3, 4 & 5
- Companies – Ace Adventure, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland
- River or Dam Fed – River and Rain fed.
- Experience Level – Some big rapids when it has been raining. When it’s full it’s some of the best rafting in Scotland.
The River Findhorn is a tremendous rafting river and it’s also one of the most beautiful. Rafting on the river is a great way to explore the stunning Scottish scenery while also experiencing the thrill of the rapids. The rapids on the Findhorn range from grade 2 to 5, making it suitable for those looking for maximum adrenaline.
Video by Vertical Descents
River Garry Rafting
- Name – The River Garry
- Location – Fort William
- Grades – 2, 3, 4
- Companies – Vertical Descents, Active Outdoors Pursuits, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland
- River or Dam Fed – Dam
- Experience Level – All the family.
The River Garry offers a consistent flow of water thanks to the dam release. It is an ideal destination for those seeking an exciting Scottish white water adventure with assured river levels in the Lochaber and Fort William Areas.
Video by Splash Rafting
River Orchy Rafting
- Name – The River Orchy
- Location – Glen Orchy, near Tyndrum
- Grades – 2, 3, 4, 5
- Companies – Splash White Water Rafting, Vertical Descents, Free Spirits, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland
- River or Dam Fed – Rain and River- Needs a lot of rain to run.
- Experience Level – One of the best rivers in Scotland, only for those who have rafted before or are confident in the water.
The River Orchy offers some of the very best white water rafting in Scotland when it runs. This is a serious river with monstrous rapids when the water levels are right. Recommended for those who have rafted other rivers before.
Video by Vertical Descents – Watch On YT
River Morriston Rafting
- Name – The River Morriston
- Location – Invermorriston, near Loch Ness
- Grades – 3, 4, 5
- Companies – Vertical Descents
- River or Dam Fed – Dam
- Experience Level – One of the best rivers in Scotland, only for those who have rafted before or are confident in the water.
The River Moriston is among the most challenging rivers for dam released white water rafting in Scotland. With numerous bedrock waterfalls as rapids, it attracts those seeking an adrenaline rush. Nestled in a magnificent Caledonian forest, it offers stunning scenery and an intense experience.
Video by Splash
Pinkston Watersports Rafting
- Name – Pinkston
- Location – Glasgow
- Grades – Three pump levels, fun and bouncy.
- Companies – Pinkston, Splash
- River or Dam Fed – Pump
- Experience Level – Beginner
Experience the excitement of white water rafting, one of Scotland’s most thrilling river activities, in the heart of Glasgow. The whitewater rafts are specifically designed to tackle any obstacles the course may present. You and your team will be guided by experienced professionals as you navigate through the intense rapids on a course that stretches 100 meters and can reach up to 7 tonnes per second. The rapids are tightly packed together, ensuring an adrenaline-packed time every ride. The session lasts for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, with one hour dedicated to rafting. Challenge yourself to complete as many rounds of the course as possible in the hour given.
When is the Best Time to Go White Water Rafting?
Factors to Consider in Deciding When to Go Rafting
There are several factors to consider when deciding when to go white water rafting in Scotland. One of the most important factors is water levels. The rapids on many Scottish rivers are dependent on rainfall levels, so it’s important to check the water levels before booking your rafting trip. Also check the dam release times, rivers like the River Tummel only run for a short periods during the summer.
Year-Round Rafting Options to Beat the Crowd
If you’re looking to go white water rafting outside of the peak season, you can still find year-round rafting options in Scotland. The River Garry, near Fort William, offers year-round rafting opportunities, with rapids ranging from grade 3 to 4. As does the river Tay and the River Orchy runs only when the water levels are big!
What to Expect from A White Water Rafting Trip?
The Adrenaline Rush and Thrill of Rafting
White water rafting is all about the adrenaline rush and the thrill of the rapids. You can expect to get wet, have fun, and experience a rush of excitement as you navigate the rapids with your team.
The Best White Water Rafting Experience for Stags and Adventure Seekers
If you’re looking for a white water rafting experience with a group of friends, a birthday party, corporate team building or a stag party, white water rafting in Scotland is the perfect choice. Many white water rafting providers in Scotland offer packages tailored specifically to stag parties and other groups.
Canyoning and Other Water Sports You Can Add to Your Rafting Adventure
If you’re looking to extend your white water rafting adventure, you can also try canyoning or other water sports. Canyoning involves navigating a canyon using a combination of swimming, abseiling, and climbing. It’s a great way to experience the Scottish countryside from a unique perspective. Other water sports you can try in Scotland include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, hiking, climbing, wild swimming, and coasteering.
How to Choose the Best White Water Rafting Provider in Scotland?
Factors to Consider in Choosing a Rafting Company
When choosing a white water rafting provider in Scotland, there are several factors to consider. These include the company’s safety record, the equipment they provide, and the experience level of their guides. It’s also important to check their online reviews and ratings.
Best Places to Go White Water Rafting in Perthshire
Perthshire is one of the best places to go white water rafting in Scotland. The rivers that run through Perthshire offer some of the most exciting and challenging rapids in the country. Some of the best white water rafting providers in Perthshire include Splash, Nae Limits, Unique Adventure Tours Scotland and The Rafting Company.
Conclusion
Unleashing Your Adventurous Spirit Through White Water Rafting in Scotland
White water rafting in Scotland is an experience that should not be missed. It’s a great way to unleash your adventurous spirit, have fun, and experience the stunning Scottish scenery from a unique perspective. Whether you’re an experienced rafter or a beginner, there’s a white water rafting trip in Scotland that’s perfect for you.
Exhilarating Rapids, Scenery, and Fun Awaits You
From the exhilarating rapids to the beautiful scenery and the fun of navigating the river with your team, white water rafting in Scotland is an experience that you’ll never forget.
Book Your Next White Water Rafting Trip Now!
If you’re ready to experience the thrill of white water rafting in Scotland, book your next trip now! With so many rivers and white water rafting providers throughout Scotland, there’s a trip that’s perfect for you.
FAQ Rafting Scotland
What to wear white water rafting?
You will be provided with a wetsuit for rafting. Bring a swimming costume or shorts and t-shirt for under the wetsuit. Do not wear cotton, go for synthetic fibres.
What to pack for white water rafting?
Pack your bathing costume, some warm clothes for after the rafting, and a snack for after the rafting and a dry bag to transport your wet clothes in.
What kind of shoes should I wear for white water rafting?
Old shoes are best to wear as they will get wet.
How to become a white water rafting guide?
Contact one of the companies listed above and see what they have to offer.
What is the best white water rafting in Scotland?
The River Orchy or the River Morriston are the best white water rafting rivers in Scotland.
What is white water rafting?
A: White water rafting is an adrenaline-fueled water sport that involves navigating rapids and rough water in an inflatable raft.
Where is Perthshire and why is it a popular destination for white water rafting?
A: Perthshire is located in central Scotland and it’s a popular destination for white water rafting due to its mountainous bounty and its abundance of fast-flowing rivers and beautiful scenery.
What is the River Tay, and why is it famous for white water rafting?
A: The River Tay is the longest river in Scotland and one of the premier white water rafting destinations. It has a variety of rapids and stretches suitable for different levels of experience and offers stunning views of the Scottish countryside. It is the no1 commercially rafted river in Scotland and a great introduction to white water rafting.
What is the River Tummel and why is it a popular spot for white water rafting?
A: The River Tummel is a fast-flowing dam-released river located in Perthshire, Scotland, and it’s a popular spot for white water rafting due to its challenging rapids, summer water release and stunning surroundings.
What is canyoning, and is it similar to white water rafting?
A: Canyoning is an outdoor activity that involves descending narrow canyons using a variety of techniques such as rappelling, sliding, and jumping. It’s similar to white water rafting in that it involves navigating water, but it’s a different and more technical experience. Most rafting providers will also offer canyoning activities.
What kind of white water rafting experience can I expect in Perthshire?
A: Perthshire offers a range of white water rafting experiences suitable for beginners and experts alike. You can expect to navigate through rapids and waves, enjoy stunning scenery, and have a lot of fun.
What are the different grades of white water rapids, and what level of experience do I need to navigate them?
A: White water rapids are classified into six grades based on their difficulty level. Grades 1-2 rapids are suitable for beginners, whereas grades 3-4 rapids require some experience, and grades 5 is extreme and where it stops. Grade 6 rapids are rarely run and never commercially.
Can I go white water rafting all year round in Scotland?
A: Yes, there are several white water rafting destinations in Scotland that offer year-round rafting, including the River Tay and the River Garry and Findhorn.
What kind of equipment do I need for white water rafting?
A: You will need a wetsuit, a BA, a helmet, and a paddle. You will be provided with all the necessary equipment by the white water rafting company.
Would you recommend white water rafting as a fun adventure activity to try in Scotland?
A: Absolutely! White water rafting in Scotland is a great way to experience the stunning scenery, enjoy some outdoor pursuits, and have a lot of fun. It’s a thrilling and memorable experience that we would highly recommend and most companies offer free photography.