Summer vacation is here, and so is the heat. If you're wondering where to splash into some serious fun, these rafting destinations will whisk you away from the city's swelter and straight into the cool embrace of canyon waters.
Heyuan Wanlü Valley Aerial Rafting, Dongyuan, Heyuan
Nestled in the primeval forests of Tianzi Mountain along the shores of Wanlü Lake, this rafting adventure draws its water from the lake. The 3.5-kilometer course takes about 90 minutes to complete, with a well-paced rhythm that balances excitement and relaxation. Shaded by lush greenery throughout, the entire course leaves visitors with no risk of sunburn.
You can drift leisurely while taking in panoramic views of the lake, forest, and mountains. The shallow sections are perfect for family water fights and family-friendly water play. With oxygen-rich air all around, this is a soothing, slow-paced rafting trip, ideal for family getaways and summer retreats.
Tianlu Mountain Zen Dragon Gorge Rafting, Xinxing, Yunfu
Tucked inside the 4A-rated Tianlu Mountain Scenic Area, this course seamlessly blends Zen Buddhist culture with pristine canyon landscapes. Stretching 3.8 kilometers, the gorge is dotted with rock formations, ancient tree ferns, and small cliffside waterfalls.
The highlight is its "dragon-riding" design: at the highest drop, a giant dragon sculpture looms large, and rafters spiral down along the dragon's body, plunging through a waterfall into the clear "Dragon Pool" below. Along the way, you can pause to breathe in the mountain air and admire the Zen-inspired views that fill the space with serene elegance.
Gulong Gorge Drifting, Qingxin, Qingyuan
Stretching 6.1 kilometers long with a total drop of 378 meters and over a hundred consecutive sharp bends and steep slopes, this one is not for the faint of heart. Featuring plunging rapids, high-speed weightless drops, and top speeds of up to 72 km/h, it's known as the "rollercoaster on the waves."
Towering canyon walls and cascading waterfalls surround you as the adrenaline hits nonstop. Ideal for thrill-seekers looking to blow off some steam, this is the ultimate pulse-pounding adventure.
Jinshan Extreme Rafting, Jiaoling, Meizhou
Hidden deep in the primitive mountains of Jinshan Peak, this 5-kilometer sprint course actually straddles two provinces, Guangdong and Fujian. Fed by constant cool mountain spring water, the stream is so crystal clear that you can see every pebble beneath the surface, making it perfect for underwater photography.
With over 40 consecutive swirling bends and multiple high-altitude cliff drops, you'll hardly need to paddle—just let the currents carry you. It's a wild, nature-infused ride full of rustic charm.
Chaozhou Fengxiang Gorge Longteng Valley Rafting, Chao'an, Chaozhou
Spanning 3.2 kilometers with a total drop of 156 meters and more than 30 rapids scattered along the way, this course offers more than just river scenery. The surrounding canyon is framed by terraced Phoenix tea plantations that stretch out in layered greens, creating a stunning backdrop of tea gardens, mountain streams, and waterfalls.
The mountain spring water is icy cold, and natural cascades accompany you throughout, with sharp plunges alternating with calm, deep pools. You can immerse yourself in the misty spray of waterfalls while also taking in distant views of tea-covered hills. It's a richly layered landscape where waterfalls, mountains, and tea plantations come together in perfect harmony.
Author | Jiang Chang
Photo | Nanfang Plus
