Challenging the power of nature itself can be easy, safe and fun. The first step is to put on your wetsuit if the water is going to be cold, strap yourself in to your life jacket with care, put on your helmet, hold on tight, and the river adventure begins!

The route starts out on peaceful waters at a relatively slow pace. The objective is to paddle hard in order for the boat to adapt itself to the flow of the river. A few rocks along the way might cause it to jump a bit, but have no fear – this is just the beginning.

As you continue the speed increases and the leaps become more regular. In the distance you can make out a waterfall, but you can’t see how high it is. The best thing to do is to grip your paddle tight, relax your body and prepare mentally for an exciting ride.

Even when they seem huge, the leaps are fun and once you’re passed them the speed picks up again. Big rocks act as brakes, but even so your heart will be racing and the adrenaline pumping through your veins.

Another fall appears, and another, and another. The descent of the river becomes ever more rapid and daring. From time to time rocks or plants will help to slow you down, but then feeling the free fall of the boat, the journey continues.

In the end, the pull of the water does not defeat the will of the most extreme adventurers. Rafting down wild, white water is such an intense experience you won’t have time to notice how cold the water is, or to remember your fear at the start. This experience is hard not to enjoy, and leaves you with the desire to seek out new rivers to conquer.

In Mexico, Rio Pescados in the municipality of Jalcomulco is an excellent option that puts anyone’s skills to the test, with its 17 category III and IV rapids. The best time to go here is between September and November.

It is important to check the rainfall in each area before choosing your rafting destination, as this is what determines the level of the flow. The best states for this sport are Veracruz, Guerrero, Chiapas, San Luis Potosí, Michoacán and Morelos.