Whitewater rafting in the Aude Gorges
Whitewater rafting on the Aude: thrills in the Pierre-Lys Gorges
Your whitewater rafting trip on the Aude
Key details about your outing:
Athletic
Ages 12 and up
About 2½ hours
Starting at €41
From April to September
Belvianes-et-Cavirac
What's included
– Professional instruction
– Full equipment
– Shuttle service along the course
What you need to bring
– Swimsuit
– Towel
Whitewater rafting on the Aude River in the Pyrenees (South of France)s: a preview of your trip
Where can you go whitewater rafting on the Aude River?
The whitewater rafting trip takes place on the Aude River, between Axat and Belvianes-et-Cavirac, in the heart of the gorges of the Upper Aude Valley. After an easy introductory section to get accustomed to the raft, the route winds through the spectacular Pierre-Lys Gorges, renowned for their rapids and wild scenery.
Directions: 1 hour and 15 minutes from Perpignan • 1 hour from Carcassonne • 1 hour from Foix • 2 hours from Toulouse
What is the process like for a whitewater rafting trip?
Reception and Facilities
When you arrive, the instructor will meet you at the base and provide you with the necessary equipment: a wetsuit, life jacket, helmet, and paddle.
Briefing and Safety
Before launching, a briefing explains how the raft works, navigation techniques, and safety guidelines.
River Rafting
You’ll then set off on a rafting trip down the Aude River. After an introductory section, you’ll navigate the rapids of the Pierre-Lys Gorges, interspersed with calmer stretches where you can take in the valley’s spectacular scenery.
“Rafting is, above all, a time for sharing and adventure on the river. What I love is guiding participants through the rapids of the Aude Gorges and helping them experience the thrill of whitewater in an exceptional natural setting.”
Agathe D.
Rafting, whitewater swimming, and canoeing and kayaking instructor
A message from your rafting instructor
Plan your family rafting trip on the Aude
Who can participate?
The whitewater rafting trip down the Aude is open to participants aged 12 and older for the gorge section.
This outing is perfect for groups of friends or anyone looking for a more action-packed descent. Younger children can bypass the gorge section by taking a shuttle along the route.
What should you plan for?
swimsuit and a towel
We provide and fit all the necessary equipment so you can enjoy your descent with complete peace of mind.
With us, enjoy whitewater rafting with complete peace of mind
Led by certified instructors, our rafting trips are conducted in small groups to ensure safety, a friendly atmosphere, and personalized attention. All equipment is provided so you can fully enjoy this whitewater adventure on the Aude River.
Certified instructors
Small groups
Commitment to Quality
No hidden fees
Customer Reviews
Book your rafting trip on the Aude
Rafting trips on the Aude River are now offered by Wilderness, the company run by Agathe, a state-certified instructor with whom we have worked for many years.
You can book your trip directly online, or for more information about the routes, please contact their team directly.
The Upper Aude Valley, an ideal destination for rafting
The rafting trip down the Aude takes place in the Upper Aude Valley, between the Pyrenees and the Corbières. The river winds through wild landscapes featuring limestone cliffs, steep-walled gorges, and pristine forests. This remarkable natural setting makes the valley one of the top destinations for rafting in the south of France.
Want to learn more about the destination?
Your rafting trip down the Aude River is also a great opportunity to explore the valley’s villages and landscapes. With its unspoiled nature, Cathar heritage, and outdoor activities, the region offers plenty of ways to extend your stay.
Check out our tips and recommendations to help you plan your visit.
Discover other activities with Oxygen Aventure
Want to continue your adventure in the Pyrenees? Oxygen Aventure also offers other activities in Saint-Paul-de-Fenouillet, about 30 minutes from the whitewater base in Belvianes-et-Cavirac. Via ferrata, canyoning, and caving in the Galamus Gorges offer a unique way to explore the landscapes of the Pyrenees and the Corbières.
Frequently Asked Questions About Whitewater Rafting on the Aude River
At what age can you start whitewater rafting?
The whitewater rafting trip down the Aude River is open to participants aged 12 and older for the gorge section. Participants must know how to swim and feel comfortable in the water.
What is the difference between family rafting and whitewater rafting on the Aude River?
The family rafting trip down the Aude offers a first taste of whitewater on an accessible stretch of the river. The adventure rafting trip takes you through the rapids of the Pierre-Lys Gorges, for a more thrilling experience and a more dynamic ride.
This trip is more challenging than the family route. It includes several rapids in the Pierre-Lys Gorge, but is still suitable for beginners when accompanied by a certified instructor.
Is whitewater rafting difficult?
Do you need to know how to swim to go rafting?
Yes, you must know how to swim and be comfortable in the water. Life jackets must be worn at all times during the descent.
Is whitewater rafting a safe activity?
Yes. The trips are led by a state-certified instructor, and a thorough briefing is conducted before setting out to explain safety guidelines and navigation techniques.
I wear glasses. Can I keep them on during the descent?
Yes, you can keep your glasses on during the activity. However, we recommend using a strap to keepthem from falling into the river.
What should I bring for the outing?
Just bring a swimsuit and a towel. All the necessary gear (wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, paddle) is provided on site.
How long does the whitewater rafting trip last?
The descent takes about 1.5 hours on the water, for a total activity time of about 2.5 hours, including check-in, gear setup, instructions, and transportation to the starting point.
What happens in case of bad weather?
Rafting can be enjoyed even on cloudy days. In the event of weather conditions that pose a safety risk (thunderstorms or high water), the trip may be postponed or canceled.
Can I use my phone to take pictures?
It’s not recommended to bring your phone on the trip, but you can bring a GoPro. You can also take photos during the outing.