Looking for a dose of aquatic fun? Australia & New Zealand are home to some awesome rafting experiences - here are 10 of the top spots to enjoy some rapids.
What it offers: Epic, multi-day rafting journey through untouched wilderness; exploration of one of the most remote parts of Australia
One of the world’s remotest raftable rivers located deep within the depths of the south-west Tasmanian wilderness, the Franklin River is a wild and unmolested jewel in the heart of the Franklin-Gordon Wild Rivers National Park. While it’s not a journey for the uninitiated, rafting trips don’t get much more “epic” thank this; those looking to raft the Franklin River do so as part of extended, multi-day journeys that involve almost as much wilderness exploration and portage as actual rafting itself.
In return for this extended time and monetary investment, aspiring rafters are rewarded with some incredibly pristine scenery that’s remained wholly untouched by man due to landmark conservation efforts that resulted in a World Heritage-protected status for the region.
The environment here is, in many ways, emblematic of the often-prehistoric feeling of Tassie’s nature as a whole; think a mixture of ruggedly scenic gorges, quietly swirling pools and towering examples of ancient Huon pines that often approach the waters of the river itself, and you’ve got an encapsulation of what such a rafting journey along the Franklin entails.
Image: @wolfgangglowackiphotography-blog
As a result of its protected nature, rafting trips here are conducted with minimal environmental impact in mind and have been for decades, leaving the river in remarkably good shape; drinking the water directly from the boat is not only possible, but comes both recommended and refreshing.
The Franklin River’s low visitor numbers are another large reason why – estimates of yearly rafters of the Franklin River hover around the 500 mark – and as a result, the ability to truly get lost in the wilderness and not encounter another human soul outside your own group gives it a magic unique among Aussie / NZ rafting journeys. You’ll certainly encounter some animal friends, however, including a chance at some rarities such as platypus, quolls, and various other native gems.
The environment here is, in many ways, emblematic of the often-prehistoric feeling of Tasmania’s nature as a whole.
As one might expect from such an untamed region, unpredictable elements such as inclement weather and water conditions can sometimes come into play, and a fair amount of portaging is required. While it’s possible for veteran rafters to conquer the river on its own, these unforeseeable circumstances mean travelling with a guide comes highly recommended.
Franklin River rafting adventures can be conducted over both 8 and 10 day itineraries, with camping in an eco-friendly manner of an evening the name of the game. Trips here are offered by family-owned Tasmanian company Franklin River Rafting, who focus on smaller and more intimate rafting expeditions.
Their highly-experienced guides offer benefits in terms of both rafting and cookery, with a focus on making meals as enjoyable as the rest of the journey. Locally-sourced Tasmanian produce keeps well in the cooler Tasmanian climate, with a mixture of veggies and meats ideal for recharging after an adventurous but tiring day navigating the Franklin’s waters.
Franklin River Rafting season runs from October through April in order to capitalise on warmth, with trips departing from Hobart and going via the town of Strahan on the Tassie west coast. While it’s an adventure largely suited for experienced rafters, there are few rafting trips in Australia and New Zealand that scream “bucket list” quite like the Franklin.
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