WHITEWATER RAFTING FAQ's
How safe are these destinations?
Victoria Falls is the most visited tourist destination in all of Southern Africa and all reports indicate that it is far removed from the country’s political unrest and conflict. Zambia has had its share of political unrest. However, the country’s problems are centered around land distribution issues and typically the only places you might encounter problems are at places where people have gathered for public rallies or protests. The people of Zambia are some of the most generous and outgoing you can find.
In Chile, you’ll find very high traveling standards. You will encounter wonderful, helpful people as well as a very clean and healthy environment. Chile is a great country to visit as a first international travel destination. All of these factors can be seen in the recent increase in popularity of Chile as a tourist destination.
Like Chile, Peru is a great destination for first time international travelers. Rich with culture from the Incan traditions, Peruvians are always anxious to introduce foreign travelers to their country. Exploring the city of Arequipa is a great way to experience the hospitality and charm that Peru has to offer.
In general, use common sense and you’ll be fine. Would you pull a roll of cash out of your pocket in front of a crowd in New York City? No, probably not. Use the same common sense when traveling abroad. In all major cities, there is crime. Guard against pickpockets, do not leave unattended luggage or equipment in public places, and use precaution when exploring areas in cities at night. If you have any concerns about a specific destination, please call us and we will try to address all of your concerns.
We have a comprehensive list of all the gear that we provide and that you need to bring. You’ll find that you already have most of the necessary items (not specialized). In some locations that we operate, weather can change quickly and it’s imperative to be prepared. By following the recommended equipment list you’ll be warm on the river and dry and comfortable in camp.
You can contact us by electronic mail on the “contact” page on our website or by calling our toll-free number 800-775-6976. We look forward to talking to you and answering any questions you might have.
What if I get sick or injured?
All trips are equipped with a satellite phone on and off the river. In each of our travel destinations, we have specific plans for evacuation in the event of an emergency. Depending on the incident, we are able to get you to a quality medical facility—either within the destination or back in your country of origin—quickly and efficiently. Please talk to our Global Descents representative about purchasing the recommended travel insurance for your next adventure.
What’s the best way to document the trip?
Every trip will have a professional videographer to document all of the action and activities of the trip. These are some of the most beautiful parts of the world and we want to give our clients the opportunity to go home with professional quality video and stills of your experience. For more information about how you can take home a trip video, please contact the Global Descents office.
No problem! One of our main focuses on our trips is delicious, high-quality food. Our menus are able to accommodate all dietary preferences and/or restrictions. Just let us know during the booking process.
What if I’ve never been rafting?
While no prior rafting experience is necessary, good
physical condition is recommended. We want everyone to be able to participate
fully in every part of the trip. If you are able to prepare for the trip by
exercising regularly for the month or two prior to your trip, you’ll be
able to maximize your fun and adventure.
What if I’m traveling to a malaria risk zone?
- Apply insect repellent to exposed skin. Although not preferred by everyone, insect repellent with a small percentage of DEET has proven to be the most effective.
- Wear long sleeved clothing and long pants while in camp and whenever possible.
- Use a mosquito net if you’re sleeping outdoors and not in a tent.
- If sleeping in a tent, be sure to keep doors sealed at all times whether you’re inside of the tent or not.
- The best way to protect yourself is to take the recommended malaria prophylaxis before, during and after your stay in the malaria risk zone. Be sure that the medication you choose is effective for the specific zone in which you’re traveling.
- For any other information, please contact the Center for Disease Control, www.cdc.gov or Global Descents at 1-800-775-6976.
Chile: After your international flight to Santiago, Chile,
you take a domestic connection to Puerto Montt. This flight is 1 ½ hours
long and you will be met at the Puerto Montt Airport by your Global Descents
trip leader.
You may also join this trip through Argentina. If you decide
to fly through Buenos Aires, you may take a domestic flight to the Southern
town of Esquel where you are able to travel across the border (1 hour drive, 40
USD, by way of private taxi. A Global Descents representative will meet you at
the border and bring you directly to your riverside camp.
Zambia: The quickest way to get to Victoria Falls is an
international connection through S. Africa, Johannesburg or Capetown. From here
you’re able to take a short flight directly to the Victoria Falls
International Airport. This takes you directly to the well traveled, adventure
tourism capital of Southern Africa where you will be met by your Global
Descents trip leader and brought directly to your deluxe accommodations at the
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge.
Peru: Fly into Lima International Airport, then connect on
a 1 ½ hour flight to Arequipa, where your Global Descents trip leader
will meet you at the airport and take you directly to your deluxe
accommodations.
Zanskar: Your expedition leader will meet you at Indira
Gandhi International Airport, upon your arrival in Delhi. Then, straight to
your deluxe accommodations in the capital city with plenty of time to rest and
relax before the journey to the Zanskar River Valley the following day.
Chile:On the Rio Futaleufu in Chile, we offer
trips during the Southern Hemisphere’s summer months. By far the best
weather occurs in the months of Jan. and Feb. where the average daytime temps
are 80 degrees F with nighttime temps around 45 degrees. However, the past has
taught us that rain is very possible. For this it is important that everyone
has high quality raingear, both pants and jackets. Luckily, all of our
activities are possible, rain or shine.
Zambia: Sunscreen anyone?? Yes, that’s
right, it’s ‘Africa Hot’. We run the Zambezi River during the
dry, hot months when the water levels are at their best and lowest. Very often
you are wearing nothing under your lifejacket except maybe a cotton t-shirt to
keep cool and protect you from the sun.
Peru: We run the Colca during the beginning of
the Peruvian winter. This doesn’t imply cold weather; rather, it’s
the dry season in Peru and time when the river is running its best for a
descent through the canyon.
Zanskar: Because of the elevation gain on this expedition,
temperatures will vary. While very warm in Delhi, the temperatures in the
evenings and on the river can be cool.
For more information call
800-775-6976
Spaces are very limited
and fill fast.
