The Americas offer some of the world’s greatest river adventures — from glacial-fed turquoise giants in Patagonia to remote expedition rivers in Peru and Canada, all the way to California’s legendary granite gorges. If you’re dreaming of an adventure that blends unforgettable whitewater with spectacular scenery and rich culture, here are four world-class rafting journeys worth putting at the top of your list and the best times of year to run them.
🇨🇱 1. Río Futaleufú – Chile
Often described as one of the top three rafting rivers on the planet, the legendary Río Futaleufú (“Futa”) is pure magic. Fed by Andean glaciers, its vibrant turquoise water thunders through deep granite canyons, creating big-volume Class IV–V rapids with incredible power and beauty.
Best time to go:
December through March, when Patagonia’s summer brings stable water levels, warm days, and perfect big-water conditions.
Why it’s one of the best in the Americas:
Massive, world-renowned whitewater
Remote Patagonian scenery that feels untouched
Warm, welcoming local culture
Multi-rapid sections that keep adrenaline high
🇨🇦 2. The Magpie River – Canada (Best Season: August)
Deep in the wilderness of Québec, the Magpie River is a spectacular multi-day expedition through boreal forest, rolling granite, and untouched nature. Its Class IV–V rapids are thrilling, but it’s the sense of remoteness that sets it apart — the kind of trip where the night sky steals the show.
Best time to go:
The Magpie is best in August, when water levels stabilise and the weather is warm, giving you the perfect mix of big water and comfortable camping.
Why it’s unforgettable:
Wild, untouched Canadian wilderness
Powerful, technical rapids
Campsites on polished rock slabs and forest clearings
Northern lights sightings in the right conditions
🇵🇪 3. Cotahuasi Canyon – Peru (Best Season: Late May–June)
The Cotahuasi River carves through one of the deepest canyons on Earth, delivering seven days of continuous Class IV–V whitewater in a jaw-dropping landscape of ancient terraces, Inca ruins, and towering cliffs.
Best time to go:
Late May into June, when snowmelt from the Andes creates ideal water levels and the canyon’s weather is at its finest.
Why it belongs on every adventurer’s list:
Big continuous whitewater for days
Inca ruins and artefacts along the river
Dramatic canyon scenery unique to Peru
Optional extension to Machu Picchu
🇺🇸 4. California Dreamin’ – USA (Best Season: Late May–June)
Our California Dreamin’ adventure blends the best of American rafting with the charm of iconic small-town USA. In just one week you’ll tackle five premier rivers, including the thrilling Cherry Creek and the multi-day Tuolumne — plus a visit to Yosemite National Park.
Best time to go:
Late May into early June, when Sierra Nevada snowmelt creates the biggest, most exciting flows of the season.
Why California makes the cut:
Five world-class rivers in a single trip
The legendary Cherry Creek — one of the best Class V runs in North America
Charming hotels and relaxed road-trip vibes
Classic granite gorge scenery & sunshine
Ready for your next great adventure?
Whether you’re craving the turquoise power of Patagonia, the stillness of Canadian wilderness, the cultural depth of Peru, or a sun-filled American road trip — the Americas deliver some of the most extraordinary river journeys in the world.
