We went on the 6 hour trip and had a lunch break.
Fun crew, beautiful scenery interspersed with moments of sheet, unadulterated terror. The first time I heard the river rumbling and then roaring, my gut definitely clenched.
First of all, without a doubt, our guide Ark (yes that's his name) was absolutely exceptional. Extremely knowledgeable, second generation guide (both parents were guides), Ark was a caring, funny yet commanding captain of our raft. I knew that I would have to do exactly what he said. My safety and enrichment of the adventure depended on it. He didn't sugar-coat the dangers either. I learned so much about the area: geology, biology, history.
In short: Ark was simply amazing!
We went out with 3 other rafts. Between all four guides, they had over 100 years of experience.
There were six of us in the raft including a guy named Andrew who had trained as a guide and who knew Ark. So it was like we had two guides! His wife Sidney, a lovely young couple named Jay and Mirinda and my Spousal Unit rounded out the crew. I was the oldest at 70.
Big Mike was our bus driver. He did such a great job. The bus rides are kind of scary!
This is a VERY physical activity. You obviously have to row but you have to take your raft down some scary stone steps to put it into the river, pull your raft out at lunch time, and take your raft up some stone platforms to the truck that takes the rafts back and you and your crew have to put the raft onto the truck, lifting over your head.
Lunch was bread for sandwiches, ham, turkey, cheese slices, potato salad and a dessert. Water and you could add concentrated lemonade. Perfect for a much needed rest.
Funniest conversation during lunch break:
Husband: "Does that guy know he's walking through poison ivy?"
Wife: "Uh, probably not."
Me: "City boy!" (I grew up with horses).
THINGS TO KNOW:
No seat belts.. You will have to paddle.
Gloves. I wish I had them. The gift shop sells them.
Bring a towel for your car when you get back.
I would wear a rash guard shirt at least. Amazon sells them and I bought pants at the gift shop.
Water shoes or water sandals. If your shoes are not firmly attached yo uwill most likely lose them.
I wish I'd worn my merino wool socks. Not because my feet were cold. You might get bruised especially around your ankles where you brace yourself.
Get a strap for your sunglasses so you don't lose them. The gift shop sells them.
You will get soaked. Duh!