Rafting on the Rio Grande can offer an adrenaline-fueled ride through rapids, or even just time to float in the sun.

There are several rafting companies in Santa Fe, Taos and the surrounding areas, and while most offer similar packages, along with experienced guides, life jackets, and other necessary equipment, each offers slightly different perks. Most are still operating this year, but may have changed details due to the pandemic. We suggest that you call to inquire about COVID-specific travel practices or requirements.

A half-day float through the Orillo Verde Recreation Area along part of the Rio Grande just south of Taos is perfect for families with young children, the elderly, or those who prefer a longer ride. gentle, except for a few gentle Class II rapids towards the end of the course. Find plenty of opportunities to swim.

New Mexico River Adventures Orilla Verde Family Float: $ 56 Adult, $ 46 Child. Half day. Minimum age: 3. 1-800-983-7756

With guides trained in the history and nature of the area, the Orillo Verde chariot is also part of a day trip that includes more intense rapids in the second half. The family could do this first part of the river together and the adventurer members can continue in the afternoon. New Mexico River Adventures also offers a sunset chariot that ends with a gourmet meal (including a freshly made dessert) for a price of $ 95 per person and a minimum of six people.

New Wave Rafting Company No Wave Pilar Panoramic Float: $ 62 Adults, $ 52 Children 6 to 12 years old, $ 31 Children 4 to 5 years old. Half day. Minimum age: 4. 1-800-984-1444

Santa Fe Rafting Company Half Day Rio Grande Orilla Verde: $ 68 per person. Half day. No minimum age. Transportation is available to and from Santa Fe. 988-4914.

The Rio Chama is another great option if you want to relax and enjoy the beautiful landscapes painted by Georgia O’Keeffe. Chama tours can include up to Class III rapids and options include a half-day trip to a full three-day camping adventure. The availability of the trip depends on the schedule of water release from the upstream reservoir.

New Wave Rafting Company River Rafting Day Tour in Rio Chama: $ 130 Adult, $ 115 Child 11 and under. 800-984-1444.

2-Day Rafting Tour on the New Mexico River Adventures in Rio Chama: $ 395 Adult. Minimum age: 12 years old. Meals included. Camping equipment available free of charge. Guides trained in the history and nature of the region. 800-983-7756.

3 Day Santa Fe Rafting Company Tour in Rio Chama: $ 495 per person. Minimum age: 5,988-4914.

The winding and fast Class III + road on the Rio Grande, known as the “race course,” is one of the most popular downhill runs. This is a great option for adventurers, so some experience in a raft is recommended but not required.

Half day at the Kokopelli Rafting Adventures racecourse: $ 69 Adult. $ 53 Child. Minimum age: 7. 983-3743.

Half Day at Big River Raft Trips: $ 80 per person. 800-748-3746.

Half Day New Mexico River Adventures Racecourse: $ 56 Adult. $ 46 Child. Minimum age: 5.800-983-7756.

This rafting adventure begins with a body of fresh water where you can practice the technique of canoeing on increasingly intense rapids. The route includes Class III, IV, and V rapids, and this stunning portion of the rugged Rio Grande Gorge canyon is teeming with wildlife. This trip is more for those who have previous rafting experience and want to take it to the next level; participants should be good swimmers and ready to paddle hard and help their own rescue if they fall or the raft overturns.

Full Day Taos River Adventures Box Rafting in New Mexico: $ 115 per person. Participants must be at least 23 years old and weigh at least 90 pounds. 800-983-7756.

Rio Grande Taos One Day Package at Santa Fe Rafting Company: $ 118 per person. Minimum age: 12. 988-4914.

Taos box from the New Wave rafting company: $ 122 per person. Minimum age: 12.800-984-1444.

New Mexico River Adventures is the only adventure company in the state to offer a trip on this extreme and remote route through the remote section of the Razorblades of the Rio Grande in northern New Mexico. Travel is only possible from May to June. Minimum age is 16 and previous rafting experience is strongly encouraged, although all participants are trained in proper paddling and self-rescue techniques before the trip begins. This day trip costs $ 195 per person. 800-983-7756.