The difference between white water rafting and black water rafting is, literally, night and day! Before you choose the right rafting expedition for you, we at Kaituna Cascades explore the many differences below.
What is white water rafting?
White water rafting involves navigating fast-flowing rivers above ground, where rafters will encounter turbulent rapids and interesting obstacles. White water rafting is generally a team activity aboard inflatable rafts. It’s collaborative and exciting, particularly as different bodies of white water have different levels of intensity! You can enjoy the natural scenery as you work together to push through challenging sections of the river, where felled trees or rocks may be common.
What is black water rafting?
Black water rafting involves navigating subterranean rivers in cave systems underground, where it’s dark and filled with intriguing geological formations like stalactites! This is a very unique adventure, because rafters have to navigate these caves aboard smaller inner tubes, wearing headlamps to illuminate the pitch-black waters. If you’re lucky, you may see small underground falls.
The water isn’t as fast-moving, but it’s important to be careful. Watch out for hidden chambers, stay observant and listen to your expedition leader. Whilst good teamwork is still essential, exploring the dark is very different to outdoor white water rafting activities, illuminated by New Zealand’s bright sunlight.
Which one do I choose?
It’s up to you, and what you’re comfortable with! Some people prefer the unique, underground cave environments of black water rafting, and the fact that it offers rafters the chance to experience a mysterious and surreal atmosphere. Others prefer white water rafting for the challenge of the fast-moving rapids, the outdoor scenery and the vast open spaces that surround them. As the difference between white water rafting and black water rafting is big, the choice is down to preference and expertise. Black water rafting tends to be slightly more adventurous with a slower pace, and whitewater rafting tends to be faster and more exciting!
At Kaituna Cascades, we provide expert white water rafting expeditions throughout beautiful Rotorua, New Zealand. Our expeditions are as safe as they are enjoyable and thrilling, and are the perfect bonding activity for families, friends and even colleagues! Contact us for more information, today.
