Mexico has some incredible whitewater rafting and kayaking opportunities scattered across the country. Many regions offer commercial day trips on established runs but there are some unique expedition opportunities as well. The number of remote canyons in the deserts and jungles is surprising considering how little we hear about Mexican whitewater.
Northern Mexico Rafting
The northern states are largely desert with some high mountain ranges. You won’t find many commercial rafting outfits here but there are several incredible rivers to explore. The Mulatos River, Aros River and Rio Conchos are all exceptional desert rivers with class III-IV whitewater. The Mulatos and Arcos are longer multi-day expeditions but you can run daytrip sections on much of the Conchos. These rivers are also convenient, being located just south of the US border.
Chiapas Region Rivers
The south-central region of Mexico is among the most scenic places on earth. I remember driving into Chiapas for the first time and being absolutely stunned by the natural beauty. The region is also whitewater rich with some expedition opportunities. Rio La Venta and Rio Lacanja are two wonderful opportunities. The big one is the Rio Usumacinta that begins in Chiapas and runs to Palenque. This long river courses through Mayan country with ancient ruins, big water and an experience you will never forget.
Mazatlan Rafting
The tourist destination is coupled with great Mexican whitewater rafting. You can kayak the remote Rio Piaxtla through deep canyon country or make a week long run down the Rio Presidio. These are both suited to experienced whitewater kayakers.
Commercial Day Trips
There are quite a few great day trips with commercial whitewater operators in Mexico. Here are a few to consider when traveling through the country.
Huasteca Potosina – Located in the central-eastern region of Mexico, this is a nice day trip with fun class III, turquoise waters and great canyon scenery.
Amacuzac River – Trips are typically divided between the Upper and Lower river here. The State of Morelos is beautiful and this is a favorite whitewater river in Mexico with Class III-IV rapids. The upper section is popular for beginners wanting a milder experience on class II rapids. As the river enters the lower section, the pace quickens and the rapids become larger and more technical.
Rio Pescado – Veracruz has multiple rivers and this is a great technical run for hard side and inflatable kayaks. Kayakers love this region for the warm water and numerous waterfalls. This is a favorite run but there are plenty of other rivers to explore locally.
Expeditions with Rocky Contos
I came across Rocky while researching rivers in Mexico. I was driving through the country and wanted to link up on one of his expeditions but the timing didn’t match. I’ll be back because he has the logistics figured out for some incredible multi-day rafting trips. You can’t really just wing these trips and launch. It requires locals who can communicate with remote villages to assure them the trip is recreational only.
Get in touch with Rocky at Sierra Rios for more information. He has trips running in some of the most difficult places on earth and Mexico is definitely a place where he is incredibly intimate with the rivers. He has multiple first descents here as well. They also run rafting trips in Ecuador, Peru, Africa and a number of unique destinations.
When you are ready for white water rafting Mexico adventures, it’s really about running the accessible day trips or planning for a longer, multi-day trip. It haleps to have experience for these longer, logistically difficult trips.
