Nothing beats the sensation of hurtling through the rapids on a white water rafting trip. So hold on tight as Holiday Lettings jumps aboard the ultimate white-knuckle rides from Trentino to Turkey, and recommends the best providers along the way…

River Tryweryn, Snowdonia, Wales

The Snowdonia National Park is the natural home of white water rafting in the UK. Wild rivers tumbling through majestic mountains? Absolutely. Dam-controlled waters powering through even in summer? Definitely. All this is set in a fantastical landscape that inspired books from His Dark Materials to The Lord of the Rings.

Where to go? The National White Water Centre

Çoruh River, Turkey

One of the fastest-flowing rivers in the world, the Çoruh provides ample opportunities to admire the spectacular scenery of the mighty Kackar Mountains as you hurtle through its crystal-clear waters. An almost endless stream of Class III/IV rapids rush you through breathtaking canyons and little paddy fields. You also hurtle past evocative Byzantine ruins and catch glimpses of traditional village life; the perfect contrast to this fast-paced ride.

Where to go? Alternatif Outdoor

Noce River, Trentino, Italy

The Noce River pours through the wild scenery of the Val di Sole in the northern Italian Dolomites. Here, melting glaciers provide some of Europe’s most thrilling white water rafting, with the stretch of Class V rapids at the Mostizzolo gorges providing hair-raising highlights. You can actually navigate an area that covers nearly 20 miles; no wonder it has hosted the the European Rafting Championships and the World Kayak Championships.

Where to go? Extreme Waves

Ayung River, Bali

If you can drag yourself away from lounging on Bali’s beautiful beaches (and, granted, this is a big if), then a complete change of pace awaits you on the Ayung River. Jet through Class II and III rapids, taking jungle basins and lush rainforest as you go. Then why not chill out as you float past pretty waterfalls and spy Hindu shrines? You might even hear and see monkeys up to mischief in the treetops overhead.

Where to go? Bali Rafting Tours

Arkansas River, Colorado, USA

The Arkansas River has something for everyone, so it’s no surprise that it’s the most popular river in the country to embark on white water adventures. You can drift in a leisurely way through Bighorn Sheep Canyon, or, if you dare, challenge yourself to a ride through the imposing Royal Gorge. Either way, it’s the ultimate in outdoor living.

Where to go? Colorado Rafting

Pacuare River, Costa Rica

Here in Costa Rica, warm jade waters meet cascading waterfalls and luxuriant rainforest. You can take it all in as you navigate the 19 miles of Class III-IV white water. As you do, you’ll also get close to brightly coloured flowers, vivid parrots and beautiful butterflies. It’s every Central American fantasy brought to life.

Where to go? Rios Tropicales

Cetina River, Croatia

Emerald waters, lush forests and gorgeous waterfalls make an outing on the Cetina River a memorable experience. The largest river in the country, it offers fast-flowing currents in the upper area and a more relaxed pace further down. Wherever you are, you’ll spy lots of trout swimming along as the river is full of them.

Photo credit: RAFTREK TRAVEL

Where to go? Raftrek

Apurimac River, Peru

With water flowing down from the Andes, the Apurimac boasts plenty of Class III and IV rapids plus even the odd Class V. Here you can raft underneath dramatic canyon walls that tower thousands of feet above you. As you paddle on, you’ll reach pastoral valleys and tropical rainforest that offer a terrific contrast in scenery.

Where to go? River Explorers

White Nile, Uganda

Whether you fancy calm or wild stretches, it’s well worth checking out the legendary White Nile. You can relax as you pass untouched forests or take a deep breath as you hit Class V rapids. Will you flip or shoot over a waterfall? No wonder it has a reputation as being home to the world’s most sustained and exhilarating rapids.

Where to go? Adrift

Snake River, Wyoming, USA

When you’re in Wyoming, why not slither down Snake River in the lesser-known Grand Canyon? Over the eight-mile course, there are eight sets of rapids to enjoy as well as fascinating geology to admire. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot a wide range of wildlife from bald eagles to mountain goats. It’s as much a treat for nature-lovers as adrenaline junkies.

Where to go? Mad River Boat Trips