Introduction
One of Kenya’s most exciting adventure activities is a rafting expedition, and there are a number of places where water enthusiasts will get their greatest thrills. Along the Ewaso N’giro river and Tana river is probably the best, with trips that last anywhere between one day to a week as the rivers wind their way through spectacular white water, with up to 30 miles of Class II, III and IV rapids in some places, and separate stretches of Class V water.
White Water Rafting
About 50 miles out of Nairobi, the beginning of the Tana River in Sagana has some rapids ideal for first-time rafters and those who want to see birds and other wildlife as they move along. The drifts are a good opportunity for birdwatching, and over 100 species have been recorded along the riverbanks.
The Tana’s rapids increase in intensity as the river continues, however, with the final section consisting of class IV and V whitewater. Meanwhile, rafting on the Ewaso N’giro River also promises game-viewing, with the river itself home to both crocodiles and hippos. The banks attract plenty of big game, and herds of elephant, antelope, zebra, and giraffe are usually seen along the way. Some rafters here have even seen lions, though this is rare.
Kayaking and Canoeing
If kayaking and canoeing is more your speed, Kenya has many lakes with mild weather, perfect for drifting along the waters in one of these elegant vessels. Of course, Indian Ocean canoeing is also fun, and there are many private dams that were mainly built for irrigation that have turned the water resource into canoeing venues. Also, the Athi River near Tsavo National Park, the second longest river in Kenya after the Tana River, which flows across the Kapote and Athi plains, is viable for both canoeing and kayaking. There’s nothing quite like watching elephants and giraffe stroll by as you kayak down the river. Trips here are best from early-April to late-July and then again from late-October to mid-January. There’s class III rapids plus plenty of wildlife, including crocodiles.