The main difference between kayaking and rafting lies in the nature of the boats, the paddles and the number of occupants. When kayaking, you paddle alone or in pairs with a double paddle in a narrow, manoeuvrable boat made of hard plastic or Kevlar. Rafting, on the other hand, takes place in a larger, inflatable boat that can accommodate several people and is steered by the whole team using single paddles. While kayakers master the current individually, rafting is a group activity in which teamwork is crucial. Both sports offer exciting experiences in white water, but with different challenges and experiences.
There are numerous spectacular streams and rivers for rafting and kayaking in Tyrol. Popular spots for rafting are the Imst Gorge, one of the most famous whitewater stretches in Europe, and the Ötztaler Ache and Tösen Gorge, which offer exciting challenges with their raging water passages. For kayakers, the Isel, a glacier river with varying degrees of difficulty, and the Lech, the last wild river in the Alps, are particularly well-known. The technically challenging Sanna is also extremely popular with kayakers, while the Tiroler Ache is popular with families and leisure paddlers. The Ziller offers exciting challenges for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. Tyrol is therefore the perfect place for whitewater adventures in the midst of breathtaking nature.
Depending on the difficulty of the route, beginners need little or no previous experience for rafting and kayaking. Guided tours on gentle rivers are a good way to get started. For advanced rafters, there are more challenging whitewater routes with higher levels of difficulty that require more experience and technique. The water level also influences the difficulty of the tour. It is therefore essential to check the water level in advance. Those who are enthusiastic about white water will find numerous opportunities in Tyrol to test their skills on various routes.
When rafting, it is advisable to take a change of clothes with you in case you get wet. Sturdy shoes guarantee a secure grip on slippery sections of the riverbank. A life jacket is compulsory on every tour and ensures safety. In addition, a neoprene suit is usually provided to protect the body from the cold of the white water. A helmet is also part of the equipment to protect the head in the event of contact with rocks. This equipment is usually provided by the provider. Of course, all participants must also be able to swim.
There are numerous places in Tyrol where you can go rafting with children. Popular routes such as the Entenlochklamm gorge and the Imster Schlucht gorge offer exciting but family-friendly white water that is suitable for beginners and children aged 6 and over. Families with children can also experience an unforgettable adventure on calmer sections of the Ziller, Lech or Isel rivers. Many providers in Tyrol offer rafting tours specially tailored to children, where safety and fun take centre stage.
Yes, rafting tours are usually organised in the rain, as the whitewater experience is often even more intense. Rain can raise the water level, which presents additional challenges for experienced paddlers. However, the providers always pay attention to safety precautions and adapt the tours depending on the weather conditions. Participants should be prepared for possible wet conditions and wear wetsuits and life jackets, which are often provided by the provider. Rain does not make the adventure any less exciting, but ensures an unforgettable experience in the white water!
Kayaking and rafting are generally very safe, especially if you take part in guided tours with experienced guides. All participants receive a comprehensive safety briefing and are provided with the necessary equipment such as life jackets, helmets and wetsuits. The providers also adapt the tours depending on the level of difficulty and water level, so that even beginners are safe on the water. Rafting is also done in groups, which further increases safety. Of course, participants should always follow the instructions of the guides in order to enjoy the adventure safely.
If you fall into the water while kayaking or rafting, there's no need to worry. Before the tour begins, you will receive a detailed safety briefing. You will also be equipped with a life jacket that will reliably bring you to the surface. If you leave the boat involuntarily, you will be quickly assisted by your guide or other participants.
