We are river guides, but the river guides us
Embark on an adventure like no other with Santa Fe Rafting, your premier partner in white water rafting experiences! We not only offer you an incredible river journey but also a shuttle service that's destined to save you money in gas expenses. By pooling together in our shuttles from Santa Fe to the river put-in, we're not only ensuring a convenient trip but also leaving a lighter carbon footprint as we share our excitement for rafting.
While our river guides chauffeur you to the river, you'll get the opportunity to connect with your guide during the drive. As you journey together, your guide becomes a window into the rich tapestry of Northern New Mexico. From sharing local history to unraveling the secrets of the land's geology and culture, this drive promises to be an educational and captivating prelude to your rafting escapade.
Half-Day
Trips
Full-Day
Trips
Multi-Day
Trips
Rentals
Guide
School
Rafting Trips
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Half-Day
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Full-Day
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Multi-Day
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Rentals
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Guide School
Phone
(505) 988-4914
Location
1000 Cerrillos Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87505
River Rafting Trips
Half-Day Trips
Half-Day Rio Grande Racecourse
Welcome to the Rio Grande Half Day Race Course Section, a thrilling adventure on New Mexico's famous river and our most popular trip! We're delighted to offer two exciting trips daily, ensuring you experience the beauty and excitement of the Rio Grande.
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COST: $77.00 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 3 HOURS
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TRAVEL TIME FROM SF: 1 HOUR
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DEPARTURE TIMES: 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM
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MINIMUM AGE: 5
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SNACK INCLUDED
Morning Adventure (9:00 AM MST Departure): Embark on an unforgettable journey as you set sail at 9:00 AM MST from Santa Fe. You'll spend a heart-pounding 2 hours navigating the river's class II-III rapids. Get ready for an adrenaline rush as you and your family conquer the waves. We've got your appetite covered with a wholesome snack to keep you energized. The adventure concludes as we return to Santa Fe around 3:00/3:30 PM MST. Afternoon Expedition (12:00 PM Departure): For those seeking a later start, our afternoon trip departs from Santa Fe Boatyard at 12:00 PM. You'll have a blast tackling the same thrilling rapids, and we'll aim to get you back in Santa Fe by 5:00/5:30 PM. It's the perfect way to end your day with a bang! Why Choose the Rio Grande Half Day Race Course Section? This section of the Rio Grande is renowned for its excitement and natural beauty. Here's what you can expect: Thrilling Rapids: Our race course section boasts 6 class II-III rapids that will provide a thrilling adventure while ensuring your safety. Educational Insights: Your expert river guide will share fascinating information about the geology of the Rio Grande formation, adding depth to your experience. Wildlife Encounters: If luck is on our side, you may spot some of New Mexico's captivating wildlife, including Rio Grande cutthroat trout, Great Blue Herons, and river otters. Keep your eyes ready for those unique moments! Spectacular Scenery: The journey will take you past towering rose quartz rock walls, stunningly polished columnar basalt formations, and through the breathtaking rifts under New Mexico's wide-open skies.
Half-Day Rio Grande Orilla Verde
Welcome to the serene and captivating Orilla Verde (Float) section of the Wild and Scenic Rio Grande, with Santa Fe Rafting Company. Immerse yourself in the tranquility of this breathtaking natural wonder with our daily river excursions.
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COST: $77.00 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 2.5 HOURS
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TRAVEL TIME FROM SF: 1 HOUR
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DEPARTURE TIMES: 9:00 AM, 12:00 PM
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MINIMUM AGE: N/A
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SNACK INCLUDED
Morning Trip (9:00 AM MST Departure): Start your day with a sense of calm as you depart Santa Fe at 9:00 AM MST. Our morning trip is the perfect opportunity to unwind and connect with nature. Experience a relaxing, guided river journey that allows you to soak in the beauty of the Rio Grande. We'll return to the Santa Fe Rafting Company Boatyard by 3:00/3:30 PM MST, ensuring you have the afternoon to explore more of the Land of Enchantment. Afternoon Trip (12:00 PM MST Departure): For those who prefer a later start, our afternoon trip departs at 12:00 PM from Santa Fe and plan to return to Santa Fe by 5:00/5:30 PM MST. This excursion is ideal for adventurers of all ages. As we gently raft through calm, flat sections of the river, you'll have the chance to: Bird Watch: Spot native birds along the riverbanks and take in their graceful beauty. Swim: Cool off in the refreshing waters of the Rio Grande. Connect: Enjoy a leisurely chat with fellow passengers, creating cherished memories together. Savor the Fresh Air: Breathe in the pure New Mexico air beneath the expansive, open skies that stretch above the Rio Grande. As your river journey comes to an end, your experienced raft guide will set up a delightful spread featuring a healthy, savory, and sweet snack. You'll savor this delicious treat at Quartzite River access, where your warm, dry transportation back to Santa Fe will be ready and waiting. The Orilla Verde Float section offers a serene escape, perfect for those seeking a more laid-back adventure. It's an excellent choice for families and travelers of all ages. Come and experience the magic of the Rio Grande with us. Book your trip today and let the river carry you to relaxation and rejuvenation!
Full-Day Trips
Full-Day Rio Grande Gorge
On this dynamic Rio Grande trip, you will get to enjoy a calm morning on the float section and then an exciting afternoon of rapids on the Racecourse. Your experienced river Guide will navigate the boat throughout the day while you and your party paddle, and take in the scenery.
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COST: $110.00 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 5 HOURS
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TRAVEL TIME FROM SF: 1.5 HOURS
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DEPARTURE TIMES: 9:00 AM
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MINIMUM AGE: 5
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LUNCH: PROVIDED
On this dynamic Rio Grande trip, you will get to enjoy a calm morning on the float section and then an exciting afternoon of rapids on the Racecourse. Your experienced river Guide will navigate the boat throughout the day while you and your party paddle, and take in the scenery. Santa Fe Rafting provides you with all the necessary personal equipment, safety speech, and training to successfully voyage this relaxing float. SFR offers transportation to-and-from Santa Fe as well as a morning and afternoon departure, depending on availability. You will meet your River Guide at the Santa Fe Boat Yard fifteen minutes before your departure time and drive to the river "put-in" at Lone Juniper and boat 12 miles to the "take-out" at Quartzite where your warm and dry transportation back to Santa Fe will be waiting.
Full-Day Rio Grande Taos Box
Welcome to the ultimate white water adventure in New Mexico – the Taos Box section of the Rio Grande! If you're an experienced white water rafter seeking a thrilling and scenic ride, look no further. Santa Fe Rafting Company is here to take you on an unforgettable journey through this stunning wilderness.
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COST: $125 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 5 HOURS
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TRAVEL TIME FROM SF: 1.5 HOURS
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DEPARTURE TIME: 8:00 AM
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MINIMUM AGE: 12
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LUNCH: PROVIDED
Prepare for a day of heart-pounding excitement and natural beauty. Our guided tour begins in Santa Fe, where we'll transport you to the put-in at John Dunn Bridge, the gateway to the Taos Box. As you embark on this incredible journey, you'll encounter: Taos Gorge Bridge: You'll raft under the awe-inspiring Taos Gorge Bridge, the second highest bridge on the U.S. Highway System and the fifth highest bridge in the United States, towering a remarkable 650 feet above the Rio Grande. The views from this vantage point are simply breathtaking. Scenic Lunch Break: Midway through the adventure, we'll pause for a well-deserved lunch by the river. Enjoy a hearty, delicious meal that will energize both our skilled guides and our adventurous guests for the exciting stretch known as the "hour of power." The "Hour of Power": Get ready for the thrill of a lifetime as we navigate through challenging rapids, including Powerline, Ski Jump, and the infamous Rock Garden. This heart-pounding segment of the journey is sure to get your adrenaline pumping. Final Rapid - Sunset: Our grand finale is the exhilarating Sunset rapid, a perfect way to cap off an action-packed day. As our journey comes to an end, we'll take out at Taos Junction Bridge. You'll find your warm, dry transportation ready and waiting to take you back to Santa Fe. Reflect on the incredible experiences of the day as you travel through the enchanting New Mexico landscape. The Taos Box section is an adventure like no other, designed for experienced white water enthusiasts who crave the excitement of challenging rapids and the awe of natural wonders. Don't miss your chance to conquer the Taos Box with Santa Fe Rafting Company. Book your trip today and embark on an unforgettable white water journey! Santa Fe Rafting provides you with all the necessary personal equipment, safety speech, and training to successfully voyage this challenging ride. You will meet your River Guide at the Santa Fe Boat Yard fifteen minutes before your departure time and drive to the river "put-in" at John Dunn Bridge and boat 12 miles to the "take-out" at Taos Junction Bridge where your warm and dry transportation back to Santa Fe will be waiting.
Full-Day Rio Chama, Chavez-Big Eddy
On this enchanting Rio Chama trip, you will get to see a gorgeous area of New Mexico. Your river guide will navigate the boat through class I-III rapids while you and your party paddle through exhilarating rapids and take in the scenery.
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COST: $130.00 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 5 HOURS
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TRAVEL TIME FROM SF: 1.5 HOURS
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DEPARTURE TIMES: 8:00 AM
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MINIMUM AGE: 5
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LUNCH: PROVIDED
On this enchanting Rio Chama trip, you will get to see a gorgeous area of New Mexico. Your river guide will navigate the boat through class I-III rapids while you and your party paddle through exhilarating rapids and take in the scenery. Santa Fe Rafting provides you with all the necessary personal equipment, safety speech, and training to successfully voyage this one-of-a-kind ride. SFR offers transportation to-and-from Santa Fe. You will meet your River Guide at the Santa Fe Boat Yard fifteen minutes before your departure time and drive to the river "put-in" at Chavez Canyon and boat 11 miles to the "take-out" at Big Eddy where your warm and dry transportation back to Santa Fe will be waiting.
Multi-Day Trips
Multi-Day Rio Chama
Now, this the ultimate celebration on the river. You will get to see a gorgeous area in New Mexico. We provide dry bags for your personal gear and have guides who will row your gear to each campsite while you paddle with your friends and family
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COST: $495.00 PER PERSON + TAX
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TIME ON THE WATER: 3 DAYS
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TIME CAMPING: 2 NIGHTS
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MINIMUM AGE: 5
Now, this the ultimate celebration on the river. You will get to see a gorgeous area in New Mexico. We provide dry bags for your personal gear and have guides who will row your gear to each campsite while you paddle with your friends and family. We set up the kitchen and prepare delicious breakfast, lunch, and dinners. Days are full of boating and hiking while nights are filled with campfires and food. This is a perfect trip for the family, business retreats, reunions, anniversaries, birthdays, or graduations to name a few occasions.
Rentals to Captain Your Own Ship
Everything you need
Santa Fe Rafting Co. has the premium white water rafting gear you will need to have a successful boating trip with your friends and family. Look and feel like a pro with NRS, Sotar, Hyside, and Star gear.
According to the New Mexico Game & Fish boating regulations, "all persons in canoes, kayaks, or rafts must wear a personal floatation device at all times".
Be sure to plan ahead and reserve the gear you need before the dates of your trip. Call or email us to inquire about available gear.
Brain Buckets
Inflatable Kayaks
Rafts & Frames
Paddles
Personal Flotation Devices
Santa Fe Rafting Guide School
Rewarding Career
River Guide
A River Guide position offers a great start to what can become a long, rewarding career in outdoor leadership. New whitewater guides join a highly experienced group of fun-loving, thoughtful, and talented outdoor professionals with an immense passion for the natural world.
Every year, in mid-April, Santa Fe Rafting Co. conducts a Whitewater Guide School. This course is five consecutive days of classroom and practical training to prepare you to navigate through class I-III rapids safely, responsibly, and confidently. This course is for any individuals interested in guiding professionally or privately.
You will learn how to run a river trip successfully from beginning to end. This will include but is not limited to: rigging, equipment care, safety, anchoring boats, reading water, steering, water hydraulics, giving effective paddle commands, flip and recovery, high-siding, rope techniques, river signals, river etiquette, and emergency procedures.
Post Guide school Santa Fe Rafting then hires exceptional individuals seeking entry-level positions as whitewater river guides. All hires must complete the SFR Guide School Course, put in additional training hours, obtain First Aid and CPR, and successfully pass an evaluation before guiding commercial trips.
This career can take you to new places, allow you to meet new people, and develop the confidence to meet challenges with a problem-solving mindset and resilience.
Contact us via email, phone, or through our website to discuss 2022 enrollment.
Included in Course:
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Guide Training
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All safety equipment and gear you will need for training
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Whitewater rafting on the Rio Grande Race Course
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All transfers
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Must be at least 18 years old
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Commercial Guides- $300.00
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Private Boaters- $400.00
We are river guides, but the river guides us
Phone
(505) 988-4914
Location
1000 Cerrillos Rd. Santa Fe, NM 87505