Rafting in the Verdon Gorges
A fun white-water adventure for families, beginners, and groups.
Departure from Castellane.
Rafting to pont de Soleil
⏱️
2h
💶
50€
👧
6+ ans
🏊
Beginner
A 13 km rafting route starting from Castellane. The first 4 km are calm before the river gradually picks up pace. Enjoy swimming and optional jumps along the way.
Rafting in the Verdon Gorges from Castellane
Rafting in the Verdon Gorges is one of the must-do activities during your stay in Castellane. Accompanied by a certified guide, you'll navigate the Verdon River in an inflatable raft on a fun, beginner-friendly route—an ideal way to experience the excitement of white-water rafting.
The classic route starts in **Castellane** and follows the Verdon River towards **Pont du Soleil**. The first section is calm, giving you time to get comfortable with the raft, learn the safety instructions, and practice paddling techniques. The river then becomes more exciting, with rapids, waves, and fun white-water sections that remain perfectly suited to beginners.
This trip is perfect for families, groups of friends, couples, and anyone trying rafting for the first time. No previous experience is required. You simply need to be able to swim, feel comfortable in the water, and bring a pair of closed-toe shoes.
During the descent, your guide steers the raft, provides clear instructions, and adapts the experience to the group. Depending on the conditions, you'll have the opportunity to swim in the river or enjoy optional cliff jumps—but nothing is ever mandatory.
Practical Information
Activity duration: approximately 2 hours on the water
Meeting point: Castellane – Swimming Pool Parking
Minimum age: 6 years and older (depending on water conditions)
Equipment provided: wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, and paddle
Please bring: a swimsuit, closed-toe shoes, and drinking water
Difficulty level: Beginner – family-friendly
Price: €50 per person
Frequently Asked Questions About Rafting in the Verdon ❓
Do I need to know how to swim to go rafting?
Yes. You must be able to swim to take part in a rafting trip in the Verdon.
Even though you'll wear a buoyancy aid, rafting is still a white-water activity. You should be able to float, move comfortably in the water, and remain calm if you happen to fall into the river.
Can I fall out of the raft?
Yes. It can happen, as rafting is an exciting and dynamic white-water activity.
That's why you'll be equipped with a helmet, a buoyancy aid, and a wetsuit. Before the trip begins, your guide will explain exactly what to do and how to stay calm if someone falls into the water.
Is rafting dangerous?
Rafting is naturally an adventurous activity, but every trip is led by a certified guide who is also a professional rescue specialist and knows the Verdon River inside out. If you'd prefer the safest possible experience, simply let your guide know before the trip. They will adapt the route and pace to make your descent as safe and comfortable as possible.
Before and throughout the trip, your guide will explain all safety instructions, show you the correct positions in the raft, and accompany the group throughout the entire adventure.
How do we get back to the starting point?
Before the activity begins, we arrange the return logistics by leaving one of our vehicles at the end of the route. Once the trip is over, simply hop into the **COCO** shuttle, and your guide will drive you back to the starting point.
Will I get wet during the rafting trip?
Yes. As rafting is a water-based activity, you should expect to get wet during the trip. However, your guide can adapt the experience to suit your preferences. If you'd like to get into the water, there are safe sections where you can swim and enjoy the river.
Do I need to be fit to go rafting?
No. You don't need to be particularly athletic to enjoy rafting in the Verdon.
The main requirements are being able to swim, being in good general health, and following your guide's instructions. Rafting is a team activity: everyone helps paddle, while the guide is in charge of steering the raft.
Can children take part in rafting?
Yes. Rafting in the Verdon is a great activity for families with children. There are seats in the raft where the chance of falling into the water is extremely low, and your guide pays special attention to younger participants by offering them these safest positions whenever possible.
Can I go rafting if I'm afraid of white water?
Yes, as long as your fear is moderate and you can swim.
Your guide will take the time to explain how the activity works and go through all the safety instructions. If you're very anxious about falling into the water or going through rapids, feel free to contact us before booking.
Is rafting a good activity on a hot day?
Yes. Rafting is one of the best activities to enjoy during hot summer days in the Verdon.
You'll spend most of the activity on the water, equipped with high-quality gear designed for your comfort and safety.