Rafting opportunities offering a range of skill levels are plentiful near Puerto Escondido. About 90 minutes from the town, Bahías de Huatulco, situated among the luxuriant vegetation of the Copalita and Zimatán river basins, offers a world of aquatic adventure. 

Fed by waters from the Sierra Madre del Sur, the Copalita River swirls past the ancient pre-Hispanic remains of the Bocana Copalita Eco-Archeology Park. Supplemented by summer rains rushing through highland coffee plantations, it has earned a level V rafting classification. This part of the descent, known as the Sección Alemania, is recommended for experts.

At the Hamaca bridge, a moderately difficult section begins for those seeking level III and IV rapids. This section runs nearly 27 miles down to Bocana, where rafters can rest and watch migratory birds. The Copalita is also perfect for beginners, with the Ceiba section designed for the rafting rookie.

The Zimatán River, not far from San Miguel del Puerto, runs through an isthmus to the Oaxaca coast, creating 20 miles of excellent rafting conditions. Here, rapids of all levels carry rafters through the lush foliage of coffee plantations.