Pristine, remote and adventurous rafting in El Salvador

An easy and fun day trip from Antigua, Guatemala is whitewater rafting on Class II-IV rapids on several rivers just across the border in El Salvador.

Rafting the Coyolate River
Departing Antigua, Guatemala very early in the morning, around 6:30am, travel down the coastal highway into the emerald green countryside. The sight of the volcanoes that surround Antigua is stupendous. From sea level, they look extemely tall. Passing through the El Salvador border is a formality of signing papers and showing passports and the last chance to turn back. Continuing down a rutted dirt road, arrive at the Rio Paz riverbank where locals crowd around to observe the big event each weekend - loads of rafters who disappear down the river and are never seen again. After the equipment check and safety talk, the guides give instruction on the difference between right and left. The boatmen will shout orders, such as left forward and right backwards, and rafters must paddle like mad in the direction indicated just like slaves in galleys, or suffer the consequences. The paddling begins and inevitabely, people start falling out of the rafts, unable to distinguish between right side and left side, forward and backwards. In due time, rafters get the hang of it and the real fun begins. Several tributaries fill the river, the canyon narrows and the scenery is beautiful. Waterfalls pound into the river, flowering trees cling to the black volcanic walls, butterflies flit around, and warm mist rises from the river. Picnic lunch is served riverside by the guides on portable tables and rafters enjoy swimming and socializing. Back in the raft, a loud rumble promises the most exciting rapid of all. Foaming whitewater boiling and churning leaves even the most experienced rafters on the edge of their seats. Signs of civilization emerge thereafer: a local villager crossing the river with bike and clothes held overhead, an old railroad bridge, and sugar cane plantations. After 6 hours on the water, the take out is a welcome sight. The drive back to the city is a well deserved quiet and lazy affair.

Rafting day trips from Antigua or Guatemala City run Saturdays. May - November is the best rafting season. The class of rapids during this time is Class II-III+. Rating in Class IV and V rapids is available on request with minimum of 5 passengers. Depart Antigua at 6:30am, Return at 4:30pm.