The perfect activity for safely getting started in whitewater sports, rafting takes place on the rapids of the Isère River from June through September. Difficulty levels, routes, equipment, alternative activities… We’ll tell you everything you need to know before booking a rafting trip during your next summer vacation in La Plagne!
Rafting on the Isère: a more accessible activity than it seems
Don’t let yourself be intimidated by the images of churning water and an inflatable raft being tossed about by the river—images you’re bound to come across when researching rafting in the Isère Gorges.
Yes, rafting is a wild ride! Or rather: it can be a wild ride. In reality, it all depends on the route you choose to tackle (with guidance from the activity provider through whom you’ll book your rafting trip).
Some sections of the river are challenging and will delight adrenaline junkies (with Class III and IV rapids for the connoisseurs, and even Class V rapids on the Doron de Bozel). Others are much calmer (there’s even a spot dedicated to “baby rafting” for children ages 6 and up).
The only requirements: you must know how to swim and be able to put your head underwater (although, of course, the goal is to stay in the raft, and you’ll be equipped with a life jacket).
Other than that, there’s nothing else you need to know before booking your first rafting trip. You’ll always be accompanied by a certified guide (no rafting trips are done independently), who is there to show you the proper techniques and ensure your safety.
The Isère Gorges: A Stunning Spot to Try Rafting in Savoie
The Isère, an iconic river in the Alps, is renowned as an ideal playground for both beginners and experienced whitewater enthusiasts.
With regulated water flow, calm sections where families can safely discover the sport, and more challenging sections featuring Class II, III, and IV rapids for experienced rafters seeking thrills… The 21-km descent between Bourg-Saint-Maurice and Centron offers a wide variety of rafting routes leading to stunning natural sites (such as the Pucelle Gorges).
Don’t forget to look up from your paddle every now and then: rafting takes you to unique viewpoints you wouldn’t have been able to discover on foot!
What can you expect on a rafting trip through the Isère Gorges?
Two important steps before boarding your raft:
- Get geared up ( put on your wetsuit, life jacket, and neoprene booties; adjust your life jacket and helmet… Everything is provided by the tour operator—you don’t need to bring your own gear except for your swimsuit);
- Attend the safety briefing with the other adventurers of the day (usually 6 to 8 people on board the raft plus the guide, for a total of 7 to 9 people).
Once everyone understands how the activity will unfold, it’s time to head out on the descent (after the mandatory pre-trip swim test)! Throughout the activity, you’ll learn how to paddle effectively, work together with your group to steer the raft through the rapids… and even pull yourself back out of the water if a particularly intense jolt sends you overboard.
Once the trip is over (after about 1 hour and 15 minutes for a family-friendly route and 2 hours and 30 minutes for a full rafting trip between Bourg-Saint-Maurice and Centron), it’ll be time to head back to the starting point (usually by minibus)… and treat yourself to another whitewater activity to try during your vacation!
Go for it without hesitation! Your safety is your guide’s top priority during a rafting trip through the Isère Gorges
Rafting in the Isère Gorges is conducted under the supervision of a certified guide who specializes in the sport.
They’ll help you choose the route best suited to your skill level (families with children, beginners, experienced rafters…), and provide all the advice you need to navigate the Isère safely: how to properly put on your life jacket and adjust your helmet, how to use the paddle to navigate the rapids, how to climb back into the raft if you fall in…
Your safety is their top priority; this means they’ll make the decision to cancel or postpone your rafting session if conditions aren’t right (for example, if the river’s flow becomes too strong after a heavy storm).
How to Properly Gear Up for a Rafting Trip on the Isère
Almost all the equipment needed for a rafting trip is provided by the tour operator: a thick neoprene wetsuit, neoprene vest and booties, helmet, life jacket…
For your part, simply bring a swimsuit (to wear under the wetsuit)and a large towel to dry off after the activity.
Our tip: Remove all your jewelry and your watch to avoid losing or damaging them. You can keep your prescription glasses if you wear them, but be sure to secure them with a cord to prevent them from taking an unwanted dip…
After the activity, you’ll be glad to slip into some cozy clothes, especially if you tend to feel the cold. Bring a pair of sneakers and some good socks instead of sandals or flip-flops—you won’t regret packing them in your bag!
Already familiar with rafting? Try other whitewater sports!
Rafting is a great way to get started with whitewater sports. After your rafting trip through the Isère Gorges, why not try other water activities that are just as refreshing?
Hydrospeed ( also known as “whitewater swimming”): This activity takes place in the same setting as rafting—the rapids of the Isère River. The difference? Instead of riding in an inflatable raft, you’re right in the water, holding a large float and wearing fins!
- Canyoning: a clever blend of water hiking and rock climbing, this fun activity takes place in narrow gorges—some shallow, some deep—carved out by flowing water (the famous canyons that give the activity its name). On the agenda: walking and swimming, jumping into large pools, sliding down natural water slides, rappelling… all against a breathtaking backdrop.
Rafting, hydrospeed, canyoning… The Ultimate Comparison
Can’t decide between several whitewater activities? Here are a few points to help you make your choice.
| Activity | Age | Where? | Duration | 2026 Rates | Ideal for… |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Rafting | Ages 6 and up | Isère Gorges (several routes depending on the group’s profile: family-friendly, beginner, advanced…) | 1 hour 15 minutes for a family-friendly trip, 2 hours 30 minutes for the full trip between Bourg-Saint-Maurice and Centron (excluding preparation and briefing time) | Starting at €48 per person | Enjoy a group activity and try your hand at whitewater sports |
| Hydrospeed | Introductory sessions for ages 10–12 and up Introductory session for ages 13–14 and up | Isère Gorges (several routes depending on participants’ skill level: beginner, intermediate) | 2.5 to 3 hours of activity (excluding preparation and briefing time) | Starting at €60 per person | Get up close to the water and experience the freedom of swimming in the Isère River |
| Canyoning | Ages 8 and up | Eau Rousse Canyon (in La Léchère, near Moûtiers), Pussy Canyon (right next to the Eau Rousse Canyon), Écot Canyon (in Haute Maurienne), Angon Canyon (on the shores of Lake Annecy), Montmin Canyon (also on the shores of Lake Annecy)… | Allow half a day or even a full day (including travel time and the activity) | Starting at €55 per person | Take on a series of fun challenges in breathtaking scenery: jumps, natural slides, rappelling… |
5 key points to keep in mind before booking your rafting trip on the Isère
So, are you ready to book your rafting trip? Keep the following 5 points in mind before confirming your session and taking the plunge:
- All participants must be able to swim comfortably and submerge their heads underwater; other than that, there are no prerequisites!
- There are rafting routes at different levels: discovery (ideal for beginners and families), beginner (for teens and adults looking for a bit more adrenaline), sport (recommended for those who have rafted before and love a good thrill); and even “baby-raft” for kids ages 6 and up!
- You’ll always be accompanied by a certified guide aboard your inflatable raft as you float down the Isère River;
- The water is cold… but you’ll be protected by a thick neoprene wetsuit;
- Other whitewater sports are available on the Isère and other rivers in the region (hydrospeed, canyoning…). Perfect for keeping you busy on hot days!
