Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip
Our 1 Day white-water rafting trip on the Tana River (Sagana) is one of Kenya’s most popular adventure excursions, located approximately 95 km (1.5–2 hours) north of Nairobi. The river is a “pool and drop” system, offering a mix of intense Class II to V rapids and calm stretches ideal for birdwatching and swimming.
Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip Itinerary
0730 Hours: Departure from Nairobi (pick-up from your residence/ hotel)
0900 Hours: Arrival at the campsite in Sagana; refreshments and safety briefing
1000 Hours: Launch onto the river. The first 3 km consist of Class II/III rapids for skill practice
1130 Hours: A 6 km calm section for birdwatching (over 100 species) and an optional swim
1230 Hours: The “Big Three” rapids: Captain’s Folly, Can of Worms, and Sphincter Flexor (Class IV/V)
1400 Hours: Take-out at the camp followed by hot showers and a three-course BBQ lunch
1600 Hours: Departure for Nairobi, arriving by approximately 06:00 PM
Note: Rafting is available year-round, though the intensity varies by season
Distance: You will cover 8 km during the dry season or up to 16 km during high water
Best Time to Go: The most powerful rapids (Class IV/V) occur during the rainy seasons—typically April to June and October to December
Essential Preparation
✓ What to Pack: Sunscreen, a change of dry clothes, a towel, and a swimming costume
✓ Skills: No previous experience is required, but an ability to swim is generally recommended
✓ What to Wear: Clothes you don’t mind getting wet (T-shirts, shorts) and secure footwear that won’t fall off
✓ Requirements: Most trips require a minimum of 2 people to run; the minimum age for the full section is typically 14 years
Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip from Nairobi takes place on the Tana River, about 95 kilometers from Nairobi. Rafting on the Tana River is available year-round, with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 60.
The length of the river we cover, in km, depends on the time of year and water levels. During the rainy season, we typically cover 16 km, but in the dry season, we cover only 8 km. Our one-day white-water rafting trip on the Tana River is the most popular and ideal for guests with a day or two to spare when visiting Nairobi or coming off Mount Kenya.
This will be an exciting day of thrills (and often spills) with a great mix of high-action whitewater (up to grade V) interspersed with scenic calm water where birdlife abounds.
Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip Itinerary
0730 Hours: Tana River White Water Rafting departs daily from Nairobi after breakfast. The drive to the Sagana campsite takes about 1.5 hours.
0900 Hours: Upon arrival, you will be welcomed and offered a cup of tea or coffee with biscuits.
1000 Hours: After refreshments, you will receive a safety briefing and be transported up the Tana River to the departure point, where you will be provided with life jackets, helmets, and a paddle.
One day, a white-water rafting trip on the Tana River takes approximately four to five hours, depending on water levels. (Note: Entry points are different depending on water levels.
After signing a compulsory release and assumption of risk form, we will drive up to the put-in, where you will receive some final practical training before heading downriver. The trip is either 16 km (high-water season) or 8 km (low-water season) and lasts approximately 4 hours.
This varies greatly with water levels, and we often find ourselves rafting 8 km one day, then 11 km the next due to rain upstream.
1400 Hours: The trip takes off at Savage Camp, where you can enjoy a solar-heated shower or relax in the pool before enjoying a three-course barbecue lunch.
1600 Hours: Trips depart from Savage Camp for Nairobi, ensuring you arrive back at your pick-up point before dark.
1800 Hours: Arrive in Nairobi.
Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip Prices
Tana River White Water Rafting Rates Include:
✓ Lunch
✓ Professional English-speaking guides
✓ Pickup from your hotel in Nairobi and drop-off at your hotel
✓ All entry fees, service charges, and taxes + Soft drinks and beers are included in the price
| Dates From | Dates To | Price Per Person | Children Aged 8 to 12 Years |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1st January 2026 | 31st December 2026 | Request for rates | Request for rates |
Notes
* All trips depart from the Sarit Centre at 0730 Hours
* White Water Rafting starts at Savage Camp in Sagana
* Groups above 60 people qualify for a discount. Please enquire when booking
* A minimum of 1 guest to a maximum of 60 is required for the Tana River & Mathioya River Rafting Trips
* Kindly bring along clothes you do not mind getting wet i.e., T-shirts, shorts, or a long-sleeved shirt and trousers (especially for those who burn easily), and shoes that will not come off
Tana River White Water Rafting Rates Do Not Include:
* Tips or gratuity
* Travelers Insurance
* Communication charges
* Minimum of 1 person required
* Visas, international airfares, and airport taxes; meals
* Sightseeing not included in the package; optional activities
* Personal expenses such as transfers to/ from the airport (supplement airport transfer cost applies for tours starting from the airport)
* White Water Rafting starts at Savage Camp in Sagana
* Groups above 60 people qualify for a discount, please enquire when booking
* A minimum of 1 guest to a maximum of 60 is required for the Tana River & Mathioya River Rafting Trips
* Kindly bring along clothes you do not mind getting wet i.e. T-shirts, shorts or a long-sleeved shirt and trousers (especially for those who burn easily) and shoes that will not come off
Booking & Reservations Tana River White Water Rafting Day Trip Contact
Mobile: +254-721-242-711
WhatsApp: +254-721-242-711
Email: [email protected]
Website: https://africanspicesafaris.com