Kayaking is a fun adventure sport which needs a kayak for moving across water. It is quite similar to canoeing and the only distinguishing factor is the sitting position of the paddler and of course the number of blades on the paddle. Well, speaking of rafting, it is a recreational outdoor activity where an inflatable raft is used to navigate a river or any other given body of water in that way. Mostly, it is said to be practised on white water and rough water and to make a note of, there is a risk included in it and an utmost need for teamwork is the key to having the best experience while rafting. In this article, we would be discussing these above-mentioned thrilling sports in brief and we will cover most of the features including the best places around the globe where these sports can be practised respectively. After reading this, you can choose your favorite amidst Kayaking vs Rafting!
Top 4 Spots For Kayaking
There are numerous spots that offer incredible experience when it comes to Kayaking. But the ones mentioned below are some spots that one should not miss out for sure!
1. Amazon
The magnificent and very fascinating Amazon rainforest is well known to be home to thousands of species of wildlife and plants. Kayaking is widely practised in and around the waters here in this region. Being quite away from civilisation since decades, exploring the passing villages and encountering the indigenous people and of course by witnessing and spotting exotic wildlife is great fun and certainly, a worth thrill to practise and experience once in your lifetime.
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2. Na Pali Coast, Kauai
This is another very fine spot for kayaking were cruising along 2,000 ft sea cliffs amidst the island of Kauai is worth cherishing a lifetime. Mist-covered valleys, some decent remote valleys, fascinating waterfalls and lava formed sea caves is what you can witness and pass by while you practise kayaking in the beautiful Na Pali Coast of Kauai. If fortunate then you might come across dolphins, monk seals, and varieties of tropical birds.
Suggested Read: Kayaking In Phuket: 10 Best Spots To Go And Experience The Best Of This Activity In Thailand!
3. Fiordland, New Zealand
Fiordland in New Zealand is known to be home to all the kayaking enthusiasts. Amidst the wilderness of the so-called very fascinating Fiordland, one can truly find their haven and have the utmost fun while practising kayaking. The entire region is said to be well dominated by the mesmerising snow-capped Southern Alps, beautiful valleys and deep lakes. While you start exploring the places, you will certainly come across several calm waters and lush rainforests which is well surrounding the place since ages and as the city is extremely remote, no cities or seen nearby and most of the places can only be accessed by boat or helicopter.
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4. Sea of Cortez, Baja California, Mexico
Without a doubt, this spot is just perfect for kayaking owing to the amazing desert landscape, high cliffs and sandy beaches. While kayaking here on clear turquoise waters, one shall have the opportunity to explore and witness abundant wildlife, spot the very amazing whales and enjoy the weather here, it is sunny yet pleasant and the warm waters of this island make it nothing but just perfect for kayaking.
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Top 4 Spots For Rafting
A little more adventurous and thrilling sport, rafting is perfect for those who seek an adrenaline rush. Here are all the top spots that one can consider for rafting!
1. Zambezi River, Zimbabwe/Zambia
This place has certainly earned its recognition for being one of the finest rafting trips in the world. To make a note of, this spot is mostly recommended for experienced rafters however the newbies are welcomed here too. You may get to spot hippopotamuses, elephants and crocodiles. There are several particular spots to try rafting in the entire area, some are still unnamed and those which are renowned would be Boiling Point, Oblivion and the Last Straw.
Suggested Read: River Rafting In Coorg: 2 Best Spots To Give You An Adrenaline-Rush On Your Next Trip
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2. Brahmaputra, India
This is indeed a great place and one of the well-known biggest yet remote rivers in the world for rafting. It is also profoundly called ‘Everest of Rivers’. Rafting amidst the isolated tribal settlements and dense forests is certainly a memory worth cherishing a lifetime. While rafting over this wonderful spot, you can pass by some good dozens of Marmong Gorge and an impenetrable tropical forest on either side. Just to add, rafting on a Himalayan is not just challenging but for sure it is full of thrill, fun and very adventurous.
Suggested Read: River Rafting In India: 15 Places For Where You Can’t Just Sit And Watch
3. Sun Kosi, Nepal
The place is known to boast an impressive big volume Grade IV rapids which have been able to draw an endless number of rafters from all over the world. While rafting here, one can certainly explore quite a massive distance somewhere from the Tibet border up to the Indian border. It is a great spot indeed to witness and explore the scenic and picturesque views seen right at the Himalayan mountains. The path is amidst lush forests and dusty plains and there are several traditional Hindu temples and quaint Nepali villages to explore when you pass by. This is certainly the perfect spot to get you closer to river rafting Nirvana.
Suggested Read: River Rafting In Nepal Is An Adventure Through The Ferocious Himalayan Rapids
4. Colorado River, Grand Canyon, USA
Rafting in the heart of the mighty Colorado River is a dream of many rafting enthusiasts and is considered to be one of the ultimate expeditions in the world. This spot is said to be carved out of the Grand Canyon over time which stretches about 226 miles through Colorado, Utah and Arizona respectively. It is a highlight of Class V Gore Canyon and while rafting here, one can certainly witness some decent views of the canyon. Without a doubt, this is one of the very finest rafting spots in the world which has attracted a huge number of river rafting junkies throughout the years and has still managed to own its reputation, recognition and charm still.
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Costs For Kayaking Vs Rafting
Including the accessories and some other required basic stuff needed for a kayaking could sum up to nearly an average cost of anywhere between $350 and $400 while the cost of rafting mostly varies by location, length of a trip and also depends if you have decided to hire a guide or had intended to do it yourself. To give an idea of the cost which may be incurred while practising rafting trips would be about $50-$200 depending on the size of the group and the cost for water gear which usually includes raft, paddles and lifejackets.
Further Read: White Water Rafting In Goa: Explore The Other Side Of The Party Capital Of India
Any of the sports- kayaking vs rafting, both have been recognised as the finest adventure sports and they are widely practised all over the world. They are really fun and would be great to practise it with your near and dear ones to double its fun on your international trip. These sports can be experienced in several places in the planet and the costs involved in it certainly depends on your plans, number of days and guests and for sure what level of experience you are seeking for.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Kayaking Vs Rafting
What is kayaking?
It is a fun adventurous water sport filled with uncertain thrills where one requires a kayak for moving across water.
What is rafting?
It is a recreational outdoor adventure activity where an inflatable raft is being used to navigate a river or any other water body.
Which are the famous places known for kayaking?
Amazon and Fiordland in New Zealand are well-known places known to offer a great kayaking experience.
What are the famous places for rafting?
The Brahmaputra in India and Sun Kosi in Nepal have raised themselves at the top of the chart where they are considered to be the best places known for rafting.
What is the average cost incurred in kayaking?
An average cost incurred would be about $350-$400 while trying out this amazing and thrilling adventure sport known as kayaking.
What is the average cost incurred in rafting?
$50-$200 is an average cost that may be incurred for a day rafting trip and could be a little higher or lower than this mentioned amount depending on your plans and expectations.
Is kayaking and rafting safe for beginners?
Besides being a fun and thrilling adventure sports, they do come with a minimal risk which can be avoided by taking proper precautions, being aware of the risks beforehand or by understating any given consequences and by hiring an appropriate guide or trainer.
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