With fantastic river rapids and scenic mountains providing both excellent backdrops and inclines that create white water, it’s not surprising that Nicaragua White Water Rafting is taking off. While rafting is possible throughout the year some Summers are particularly dry and may affect your ability to raft, so if booking in advance it’s best to avoid July and August.
The main problem experienced by those coming to Nicaragua for white water rafting is how far the rapids are from accessible locations. This means the most established rafting opportunities tend to be in calmer waters.
The most adventurous who are prepared to trek outside normal rafting territory in order to raft the full length of the Río Coco will be rewarded with great Class III and IV rapids and the feeling that they’re exploring undiscovered territory. Few have completed the entire trip, but those are able to get their raft up to the river’s headwaters in the remote coffee growing region of the country will enjoy the feeling of exploration that is lacking from more popular white water rafting destinations.
Another possible rafting expedition is on the Río San Juan. This offers great historic backdrops along with crocodiles, although lacks the white water of the Río Coco. A typical route on this river is from San Carlos to the colonial era fort at El Castillo, although it’s possible to continue to San Juan del Norte.
Given Nicaragua isn’t yet a popular destination for white water rafting it’s highly recommended that only those more experienced at rafting and are able to organise independent rafting expeditions head here. Even the most experienced rafters will however benefit from local experience when organising their trip, especially in terms of transportation between the start and end of their course which involves unpaved roads.
