River Rafting Small Group Tours & Trip Packages

River Rafting Small Group Tours & Trips

101 River Rafting trips. Tours from 102 tour companies. 182 reviews. 4.8/5 avg rating.

45 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Small Group Tour
Northern Arizona’s Cultures and Canyons and Western Grand Canyon Rafting
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Wheelchair Accessible
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Arizona, Grand Canyon

Highlights

  • Spend a day at the Grand Canyon exploring the Desert View Watchtower, rim trails and Grand Canyon Village
  • Explore the Museum of Northern Arizona and visit 800-year-old cliff dwellings at Walnut Canyon
  • Navigate the Grand Canyon by raft on smooth water or whitewater, depending on your chosen date

Themes

50 plus, Education / Learning

What travelers are saying

"Because I have Stage 4 cancer, I chose to spend the extra money for trip insurance in case my cancer recurred. When a scan showed that it had, I cancelled my trip. I sent to them the medical documents from the Mayo Clinic confirming my new diagnosis. They sent me an email telling me my oncologist needed to fill in a form. I asked my oncologist to do that and I submitted it by fax on April 6th. When I didn’t hear anything, I sent them more medical documentation and asked them to please push forward my refund as I have travel expenses from a clinical trial coming up. Several days later I received an email that they needed further documentation from my doctor. How much more documentation do you need than the patient has stage 4 metastatic cancer and is starting a clinical trial??? This is heartless to me. Please don’t plan to travel through Road Scholar if you’re medically vulnerable!!"

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Exploring & Rafting in Western Grand Canyon With Your Grandchild
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4.4/5 Great
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Wheelchair Accessible
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Arizona, Grand Canyon

Highlights

  • Raft 37 wild and scenic miles of the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon
  • Take a spectacular flight by helicopter from the river to the rim of the Grand Canyon
  • Drive the only road to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and picnic and play on a Colorado River beach

Themes

50 plus

What travelers are saying

"Because I have Stage 4 cancer, I chose to spend the extra money for trip insurance in case my cancer recurred. When a scan showed that it had, I cancelled my trip. I sent to them the medical documents from the Mayo Clinic confirming my new diagnosis. They sent me an email telling me my oncologist needed to fill in a form. I asked my oncologist to do that and I submitted it by fax on April 6th. When I didn’t hear anything, I sent them more medical documentation and asked them to please push forward my refund as I have travel expenses from a clinical trial coming up. Several days later I received an email that they needed further documentation from my doctor. How much more documentation do you need than the patient has stage 4 metastatic cancer and is starting a clinical trial??? This is heartless to me. Please don’t plan to travel through Road Scholar if you’re medically vulnerable!!"

Trip dates & details
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Untamed Iceland
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1/5 Terrible
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Easy
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Blue Lagoon, Lake Myvatn, Reykjavík, Snaefellsnes Peninsula

Highlights

  • Visit a local horse farm to meet affable Icelandic horses first brought to the country by Viking settlers
  • Discover some of Iceland's Saga-like history at the Settlement Center in Borgarnes.
  • Enjoy views of colorful mountain cliffs, pristine fjords, and fertile valleys where horses graze.
  • Visit a museum dedicated to this once-thriving industry before returning to Akureyri.
  • Visit the stunning Gullfoss waterfall
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Themes

Cultural, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"This letter is effectively what was communicated no less than 8 times in writing and conversation to OAT representatives up the chain, beginning 19 days before the trip. OAT was IMMOVABLE on allowing us to find an alternative travel companion and it was 100% due to rigid policy, not real barriers. We never expected a refund and wouldn't have blamed them if we could not fill my spot. They refused to even give us the opportunity. Appalling and sadly representative of their customer service. Congratulations, you lost two customers and one long time referral source. I only think it is fair that folks know the nature of the company at this point. An absolute shame. As a dedicated Edmund Hillary member of OAT with a history of introducing countless friends to your service including 4 who booked trips, I am writing to express my deep concern over the handling of our Galapagos trip booking in light of a recent medical emergency. This situation not only highlights significant gaps in customer communication and care but also underscores the need for immediate, effective action. Timeline of Events and Communication Issues: Initial Contact on 11/22: We contacted OAT 19 days before the trip, scheduled for 12/11, as soon as it became clear that extended surgical complications would prevent my travel. Policy of No Refunds or Changes Under 30 Days: We were informed that the trip is non-refundable under 30 days, which is understood. However, OAT also refused to allow a replacement traveler, posing zero risk to the company. Both of us called, met with the same response. Response from Exceptions Department on 11/22: The no-change policy was reiterated by the Exceptions Department on the same day. Written Escalation on 11/22: Both parties sent written letters to escalate the matter. Delayed Response Until 11/29: We did not receive any response until 11/29, with OAT mentioning the inability to make changes 12 days before the trip. Policy vs. Practical Reasons: The response seemed more policy-based than practical. We offered to cover the cost for a replacement traveler for the internal Galapagos flight, which was declined. The rep always returned to the policy prohibiting it. She further added we do not sell trips within 30 days. Upon looking the next day, I found no less than 7 different itineraries with no less than 13 different trips that I could have booked within 30 days. Further Escalation Request and Conversation on 11/30: A further request for escalation resulted in a 23-minute conversation on 11/30 without any change. Given these circumstances, I propose the following practical solution: Future Travel Credit in Exchange for Re-Selling My Space: If finding a substitute traveler is unfeasible, I suggest OAT resell my space to another interested party, crediting me for a future trip. This solution aligns with my preference and ongoing loyalty to OAT. The lack of a constructive response and rigid adherence to policy without considering exceptional circumstances is alarming. It not only affects this immediate trip but also impacts my ability to continue advocating for OAT in good conscience. An amicable and prompt resolution to this issue would speak volumes about OAT's commitment to customer satisfaction and flexibility. Unless there is a prompt and constructive resolution to this matter, we will be forced to escalate our concerns further. This includes reaching out to higher management within OAT, engaging with consumer protection agencies, sharing our experience through travel forums, and social media for breach of service. Our preference is to resolve this amicably, yet the current trajectory leaves us little choice but to pursue these avenues. I implore you to seriously consider these options and respond in a manner that reflects OAT's values of empathy and customer support. Your immediate attention to this matter is not only appreciated but necessary for a resolution that respects both parties' interests. Thank you for your understanding and prompt attention to this critical issue."

Trip dates & details
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Rocky Mountain National Park Adventure
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Arizona

Highlights

  • Explore the spectacular landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Hike past wildflower meadows, cascading waterfalls and crystal-clear alpine lakes
  • Raft the Cache la Poudre River and take a drive on famous Trail Ridge Road
  • Follow our exceptional guides down trail and learn about the park’s natural history
  • Enjoy delicious camp meals and sleep in comfort in our oversized tents

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"The entire trip was well researched, conceived and executed. The schedule, order of activities, pace, and diversity yielded a quality mix of physical activity, Alaska education and "bucket list" days. The guides are passionate, fun educators with the patience and intuition to pamper anyone. If you want the quintessential Alaska orientation, this is your trip. All 3 REI trips (Peru, Galapagos) have exceeded expectations. One caveat for the avid (strong, fast) hiker, you will be governed by the group pace and safe bear practices - the group is anchored by the slowest hiker. Why did you choose this trip? The itinerary worked for my wife and me. What would your advice be to potential travelers? Be prepared for rain, but it simply adds seasoning to the experience. Go in shape to hike everyday. Invest in quality engagements with your traveling companions. Stretch yourself - that is what quality travel should do. What was the highlight of your trip? Tough to pick one - the Harding Icefield, Talkeetna and the Denali Overlook Inn, the K2 flight around Denali, the Seward boat trip and Aliak Glacier, the Denali bus trip, the laughs with the group. # About Me Avid Adventurer ✔ Yes, I recommend this trip."

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Rocky Mountain National Park Family Adventure
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4.9/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Premium - 4 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Denver

Highlights

  • Explore the spectacular landscapes of Rocky Mountain National Park
  • Enjoy family-friendly hikes past wildflower meadows and cascading waterfalls
  • Raft the Cache la Poudre River and take a drive on famous Trail Ridge Road
  • Search for elk, deer, bighorn sheep, marmots and other park wildlife
  • Learn about the natural history of the Rocky Mountains from our exceptional guides

Themes

Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"The entire trip was well researched, conceived and executed. The schedule, order of activities, pace, and diversity yielded a quality mix of physical activity, Alaska education and "bucket list" days. The guides are passionate, fun educators with the patience and intuition to pamper anyone. If you want the quintessential Alaska orientation, this is your trip. All 3 REI trips (Peru, Galapagos) have exceeded expectations. One caveat for the avid (strong, fast) hiker, you will be governed by the group pace and safe bear practices - the group is anchored by the slowest hiker. Why did you choose this trip? The itinerary worked for my wife and me. What would your advice be to potential travelers? Be prepared for rain, but it simply adds seasoning to the experience. Go in shape to hike everyday. Invest in quality engagements with your traveling companions. Stretch yourself - that is what quality travel should do. What was the highlight of your trip? Tough to pick one - the Harding Icefield, Talkeetna and the Denali Overlook Inn, the K2 flight around Denali, the Seward boat trip and Aliak Glacier, the Denali bus trip, the laughs with the group. # About Me Avid Adventurer ✔ Yes, I recommend this trip."

Trip dates & details
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Fall Semester In The Rockies
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4.7/5 Excellent
28 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Arizona, Grand Canyon

Highlights

  • This is an outdoor leadership course designed for 23 years and older
  • Visit world-class rock climbing spots
  • Grow and develop as a leader
  • Navigate through winding slot canyons

Themes

Climbing & Mountaineering, Cycling & Biking, High Adventure, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"Great Wilderness courses!"

Trip dates & details
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Salmon River Rafting
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4.7/5 Excellent
28 reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Standard - 3 star
Physical level
Strenuous
Trip pace
Balanced schedule

Visits

Idaho

Highlights

  • This is an outdoor leadership course designed for age 23 years and older
  • Explore Salmon River in Idaho.
  • Enjoy floating on crystal blue waters through a stunning granite canyon.
  • Have an opportunity to learn and practice river rescue skills, captain boats.

Themes

National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing

What travelers are saying

"Great Wilderness courses!"

Trip dates & details
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Sri Lanka Adventure
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4.5/5 Excellent
100+ reviews
Small Group Tour
Lodging level
Basic - 2 star
Physical level
Moderate
Trip pace
Full schedule

Visits

Colombo, Kandy, Nuwara Eliya

Highlights

  • Climb to the top of Adam's Peak, raft the River Kalani and hike the spectacular Horton's Plains
  • A relaxed pace with time to immerse yourself in the culture
  • Jeep safari in Udawalawe National Park in search for wild elephants, water buffalo, deer and other species.
  • Time spent in the hill capital of Kandy
  • Experience remote regions of Sri Lanka
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Themes

Eco, Sustainable & Green Travel, Hiking & Walking, National Parks, Nature & Wildlife, Rafting, Kayaking, Canoeing, Safari

What travelers are saying

"My tour guide, Tien, was wonderful. There was a tour participant from Australia who was a physician, and he acted like the tour medical director, demanding I leave the tour. The emergency contact people in Vietnam were very helpful with finding me accommodations after I left the tour. I am still waiting on a letter from World Expeditions supporting my travel insurance claim."

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45 trips exactly matchall of the the filters you selected.
My selections:
Small Group Tour

River Rafting Reviews & Ratings

4.8/5  Excellent
182  Reviews
See all River Rafting tour reviews
Excellent
109
Great
27
Average
0
Disappointing
0
Terrible
1
M

Mike

Mar 2024

Written on

Self-designed 21 day trip to NZ

Geoff helped my wife and I to put together an itinerary that customized to our particular interests and preferences. At the outset he asked us where we'd like to go ...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Costa Rica Family Adventure

Family adventure trip - you moved on every couple days so you needed to pack wisely. There was a lot of boat trips and travelling around the country. There was a h...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

COSTA RICA FAMILY ADVENTURE

This was a really memorable holiday. Costa Rica is an extraordinary country with a plethora of fantastic birds, animals, and flowers to see - and the big appeal o...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Excellent intro to Costa Rica - outstanding guide Edward

Wow, just back from our 2 week adventure. I don't usually do reviews but this one is definitely worth a few lines! Firstly, our guide Edward absolutely made the tr...

A

Anonymous

Oct 2018

Provided byExodus Travels

Wow, wow, wow!!!

Costa Rica is a fabulous country and well worth the long flight. We went as a family of 5, parents of nearly 50, my mum in her early 70s and 2 girls aged 10 and 1...

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River Rafting Tour Selection Trips

Before embarking on your whitewater rafting adventure, it's essential to prioritize safety. Here are some crucial tips to ensure a safe and enjoyable expedition:

  • Always wear a properly fitted personal flotation device (PFD) while on the water.
  • Listen carefully to your guide's instructions and follow them promptly.
  • Secure all loose items and belongings to prevent them from falling into the water.
  • Stay seated in the raft unless instructed otherwise by your guide.
  • Avoid standing up or leaning over the side of the raft while navigating rapids.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and watch for obstacles and hazards in the water.
  • Stay hydrated and protected from the sun by wearing sunscreen and a hat.
  • Communicate with your fellow rafters and guide them to ensure effective teamwork.
  • In the event of a capsize, remain calm and follow your guide's directions for self-rescue.
  • Respect the natural environment and leave no trace of your visit.

By adhering to these safety tips and remaining vigilant throughout your river rafting excursion, you can minimize risks and maximize the enjoyment of your whitewater adventure.

Additional details

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