Has anyone been whitewater rafting in Taiwan? (Hsiukuluan and Luanung are the most popular rivers, I believe.) Interested in hearing about your experiences and suggestions. Cheers.
I went to Hsiukuluan a couple of years ago. It’s not particularly dangerous, which is probably just as well in Taiwan. But it’s quite scenic drifting down the river and there are some reasonably exciting bits, particularly straight after lunch. If you’ve done it before it’d probably seem a bit tame, but it was a good day out.
Hi everyone,
I came across this old thread while researching whitewater rafting in Taiwan and thought it could use an update. A lot has changed since 2001!
For anyone currently interested in whitewater rafting in Taiwan, it’s become much more accessible. You can now easily find and book rafting experiences through platforms like Klook.
Popular spots like Xiuguluan and Laonong rivers are still go-to destinations, but there might be new locations that have opened up in the last two decades.
I’m curious:
- Has anyone gone rafting in Taiwan recently? How was your experience?
- Are there any new popular rafting spots beyond Xiuguluan and Laonong?
- How have safety measures and regulations changed over the years?
It would be great to hear some current perspectives and recommendations.
If you’ve been recently, please share your experiences and any tips for fellow adventure seekers!
I’m also wondering about rafting in Hualien – I know the recent earthquake might’ve affected rafting operations there, but otherwise, it seems like there are some wonderful rafting spots in Hualien (from what I can see on Google, at least).
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You’re right! I went rafting, my first time, in Ruisui 瑞穗 and I enjoyed it. That was back in 2013 so some operations have closed, but there are still places open. I would read reviews, particularly about safety. And who knows, you might meet the love of your life there like I did 
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When I see how many guides and coaches here die, get people killed, or leave people to die, it worries me. I’m thinking hiking, river tracing, paragliding…
We know how driving certification works, why would we expect qualified and competent people running the rafting businesses?
Basically, any whitewater that is interesting enough to be fun is probably too dangerous in Taiwan. The class 1 and lower class 2 stuff that is probably what they can handle someone with a little experience and equipment might as well swim with a good life jacket
The geography and weather in Taiwan isn’t really suitable for rafting. No consistently high volume flows, no pool drop rivers. There are mountain creeks that are too steep and shallow for kayaks, there are wide rivers that really get moving in high volume but with more hazards than waves. Typhoons and torrential rains bring volume, but not safely or consistently.
I mean, yeah, if you’ve never done it or go with the right group of people it can be a fun day.
But really, the Americas are the place to go. Australia, New Zealand, also have some famous rivers…
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That’s very interesting. I also have safety concerns about rafting in Taiwan.
Aside from the countries you mentioned, I think Japan may also be worth recommending. I’ve only been rafting once in Japan, but there were very good safety measures in place.
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Don’t forget gray and black water rafting. Both popular in NZ.
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!!! I’ve never heard of those! will definitely have to try