FAQs
FAQs
Explore our FAQs to get all the key information you need for rafting the Grand Canyon. Learn about trip preparation, safety, packing tips, and what to expect during your adventure.
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- I can't swim-can I still go on our trips? I can't swim-can I still go on our trips? Yes. We provide Coast Guard approved life jackets. These are required to be worn by everyone at all times on the river.
- What's the difference between Oar-Powered Rafts and Motor-Powered Rafts? What's the difference between Oar-Powered Rafts and Motor-Powered Rafts?
Our Motorized Rafts are 15' X 37' neoprene rafts powered by 30 hp 4-stroke environmentally friendly outboard motors. Each raft can accommodate up to 14 passengers and two guides. On our motorized raft trips we utilize two rafts that can accommodate up to 28 passengers per trip. These rafts give you an opportunity to experience the Grand Canyon and its wonders at a slightly quicker pace than our oar rafts.
Our oar-powered rafts are 6' X 18' rafts made of Class VI base fabric with a Urethane coating. They are rowed by one of our qualified guides and are capable of carrying five passengers per raft. On our oar trips as many as five rafts and 24 passengers can be on one trip this gives the customer a more intimate canyon experience. We also utilize a Motor Support raft to carry gear, food, and equipment on our summer adventures.
Either type of trip, motor or oar-powered, Wilderness River Adventures staff will work hard to make sure that your Grand Canyon experience is something that you will always remember.
- How do you ensure the safety of your guests? How do you ensure the safety of your guests?
Our rafts are rugged, designed for safety and equipped with complete first-aid kits and emergency communication equipment. Also, on our rafts, there's always a spare outboard motor, plenty of extra fuel and tools stored safely below—just in case replacement or repairs are needed.
All passengers and guides will wear a comfortable Class V life jacket at all times while on the raft.
Wilderness River Adventures guides are highly experienced. Not only are these exceptional men and women trained to take you safely through the most challenging rapids, your trip leaders and guides are also required by Wilderness River Adventures and the National Park Service to:
- Be capable of safely navigating the river.
- Be capable of operating the emergency communications equipment carried and know the evacuation procedures.
- Be knowledgeable of State, U.S. Coast Guard and National Park Service regulations applicable to rafts carrying passengers for hire.
- Must possess a current certification in Wilderness First Responder or a current certification in Emergency Medical Technician credentials.
- Must possess a current certification in CPR.
- Must possess a current Food Handlers Certification.
- Why should I choose Wilderness River Adventures? Why should I choose Wilderness River Adventures?
One customer said it best, "The staff was phenomenal. Their love for the canyon, their knowledge of the geology, their respect for the earth, and their genuine love for the job they are so fortunate to have. From the first call I made to the office to the last day at the helicopter pad, I felt I was special."
We pride ourselves in the behind-the-scenes things we do to develop professional, knowledgeable crew members, who are family to each other. We feel our crew is our most valuable asset. We guarantee you will see the Grand Canyon in all its splendor!
- When is final payment due? When is final payment due?
Final payment is due 90 days prior to the date of departure. You will receive a statement in your confirmation packet. We do not automatically charge your credit card for the balance. You will need to contact our office for final payments by calling 928.645.0343 or 928.645.4967. We accept all forms of credit cards and checks for your payment.
- What class are the rapids? What class are the rapids? Unlike other rivers that use a scale of I-V, the rapids in Grand Canyon are rated on a scale of 1-10. A "1" is flat water and a "10" is the most difficult rapid to navigate although still considered “runnable.” The river is a pool drop river, which means before and after each rapid there is calm water. The river itself is dam controlled. During your trip you will see some fluctuations in the river levels. This change in water levels can change the ratings of rapids.
- I'm fair-skinned. What do you suggest I do to protect myself from the sun? I'm fair-skinned. What do you suggest I do to protect myself from the sun? Out on the river the sun can be intense. Prepare by bringing plenty of sunscreen, bring clothing that will let you dress in layers—including lightweight long pants and lightweight long-sleeved shirt. Be sure to bring a hat.
- What are the sleeping arrangements on your trips? What are the sleeping arrangements on your trips? You’re sleeping under the stars, lulled to perfect relaxation by the sounds of the nearby river! To ensure a comfortable night’s sleep we provide you with a cot and sleeping bag. Tents are available, but our guests love the experience of falling asleep under a canopy of shining stars.
- What about toilet facilities? What about toilet facilities? During the day you will urinate in the river per National Park Service regulations. Each evening when we arrive in camp, a sanitary portable toilet is set up just outside of camp in a scenic location along with a hand washing system.
- What is your cancellation policy? What is your cancellation policy?
We highly recommend you purchase cancellation insurance. Please contact the insurance company before you make your final payment; we are unable to make exceptions to the following cancellation policy. $400 non-refundable deposit. Final payment is due 90 days prior to the trip. Once your final payment is made no refunds will be issued. In the event you are unable to make the trip and wish to substitute another person in your place, the above cancellation policy will be enforced for your reservation and the substitute will be treated as a new reservation. All monies collected will be returned to the person who made the original payment in the manner in which it was collected.
Pay Now Rate, from date of booking no refunds, no transfers, and no substitutions.
Since we are unable to make any exceptions for any reason to our cancellation policy, “we strongly advise” all our passengers obtain some type of trip cancellation insurance. As a service to our customers, cancellation information will be included in your confirmation packet.
- What is the charge to transfer to a different date? What is the charge to transfer to a different date? In the event you need to transfer to another trip date, we will, on availability, change your trip date. The charge for this will be a $50 re-booking fee per person within 90 days of departure. Once this change has been made no refunds will be issued. We are only able to transfer to dates in the same season; we cannot transfer to the next year.
- Where can I purchase travel and cancellation insurance? Where can I purchase travel and cancellation insurance?
You can purchase cancellation insurance from a number of providers. We recommend:
- What are the minimum ages for kids on your trips? What are the minimum ages for kids on your trips? For motorized raft trips the minimum age is 8; for oar raft trips the minimum age is 12. We encourage family rafting trips—being together on these adventures is exciting for both parents and kids, and sharing the beauty and thrill of being on the river is an awesome family experience.
- What type of food do you serve? What type of food do you serve? You'll enjoy three hearty meals a day with a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, fish, and meat. Meals are prepared by your guides; cooked in Dutch Ovens, Griddles, and BBQ Grills. Due to the limitations and nature of our buffet-style meals, we are unable to accommodate dietary requests such as Kosher meals. We do accommodate Vegetarian and Gluten Free. If you or any participant in your group have any special dietary requirements, please notify our office 4 weeks prior to trip departure.
- What does your camping gear consist of? What does your camping gear consist of? We provide sleeping bags, a cot, ground tarp, tent, waterproof gear bags, (one for your clothing and one for your sleeping bag) a waterproof box and dry bag for your day gear, and a folding camp chair. You’ll also receive a logo drinking cup. We include all eating utensils, water, soft drinks, snacks and food.
