Rafting Calabria

• Everything you need to know before going rafting in Calabria
• The best rafting trips on the Lao River in Pollino National Park
• How much does it cost to go rafting in Calabria?
• Gift a rafting trip in Calabria
• Pollino National Park: the largest in Italy and a UNESCO heritage site

Everything you need to know before going rafting in Calabria

Rafting is a fun activity suitable for everyone, including families with children. With routes of varying difficulty, going rafting on the Lao River will thrill beginners and meet the expectations of the more experienced participants as well.

Rafting involves sailing down the course of a river in special inflatable boats, called rafts. The crew consists of 6 to 8 people and is captained by an experienced guide who gives the commands and chooses the best route to overcome various natural obstacles. Before entering the water, the instructors hold a preparation briefing to teach participants how to use the paddle and safety measures to follow in order to carry out the activity safely. Then you’re ready to go!

On the more adrenaline-pumping trails, you get to challenge rapids, eddies, rocky gorges and particularly rushing sections of the river. There is never a shortage, however, of moments when the waters subside, and you can remain in contemplation of the beautiful landscape. In fact, what is common to all rafting trips is the incredible natural scenery that provides the setting for the adventure.

At the end of the trip, you return to the rafting center, which usually offers showers, locker rooms and relaxation areas. Sometimes, depending on the location, it is possible to end the experience with a barbecue with friends or an aperitif/tasting of typical products.

The best rafting trips on the Lao River in Pollino National Park

Those who want to go rafting in the Pollino National Park can choose from a number of outdoor centers. Laino Borgo, Papasidero and Orsomarso are the best places to go rafting on the Lao River and offer routes suitable for all levels.

The Rafting Classic trail starts from Orsomarso; it’s an 8 km long course, also suitable for families with children aged 3 and up. This trip is the right mix of nature, adrenaline and adventure and is ideal for those who want to try rafting for the first time.

Those who want to explore even more rough trails can go rafting at the Lao Gorge, along a stretch of river that flows between narrows and high rock walls. For this route, you can start from the village of Papasidero, in the heart of the Lao River Valley nature reserve.

The longest and most complete itinerary is the one from Laino Borgo. From here, it is possible to make a trip of as much as 26 km, going through the entire stretch of the gorges and the striking Malomo waterfall. This course requires a minimum age of 14 and a basic level of swimming.

How much does it cost to go rafting in Calabria?

Prices for rafting activities in Calabria vary according to the type of route, its length and starting point. It starts at 35€ per person for a basic descent, up to 95€ for the Full Explorer route. Discounts are often provided for children, and photos are included.

The participation fee always includes transfer to the boarding point, technical equipment, water jacket, helmet and life jacket. You will need to bring only your swimsuit, a towel, and a change of shoes and clothes.

Gift a rafting trip in Calabria

A rafting trip can be an original and fun gift idea suitable for any occasion. Whether it’s for a birthday, a party or just a time to share with friends, a rafting trip is definitely an adventure to remember.

Pollino National Park: the largest in Italy and a UNESCO heritage site

Experiencing the Pollino National Park is an incredible thrill. During rafting trips, you are immersed in the pristine nature that makes up the river and get to admire the wild landscapes that characterize the riverbanks.

In 2015 the park was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and with its 192,000 hectares it holds the record as the largest national park in Italy.