Rafting emerged when North American axmen learned how to save time and effort by transporting saw logs along fast mountain rivers. Today rafting is an extreme sport and a hobby of boating down whitewater. Until recently Bulgarians knew about this challenging activity only from TV reports. Currently however, there are many local enthusiasts of whitewater rafting.

To meet demand, a few resorts have emerged with rafting being central to their packages. Bulgaria offers excellent conditions for this recreational activity, especially in April, May and June, when river waters become very rough because of snow melting. The best location to choose is the Kresna Gorge of the River Strouma in Southwestern Bulgaria.

Rafting is a team effort. In Bulgaria the crews are usually six-strong. Dr. Kiril Makarov, one of the founders of the sport in this country and of the House for Books & Adventures Club, says more:

“Water is an adventure, it surrounds us and it is also inside us. What we want is tempt man leave his PC, switch off the Skype and go out in nature. This is the goal of the House of Books & Adventure, a project of several enthusiasts. We want to give you the feeling of belonging to nature and make it clear to you that what the city, the car and etc. actually do to you is simply shackle you.”

Rafting is about a shot of adrenalin, and there is danger involved too. What are the conditions for rafting in Bulgaria?

“Our country is great for this extreme sport. In its relatively small territory there are a few rivers that are quite OK for rowing an inflatable boat in rough waters. The best place is the Kresna Gorge, 130 km away from Sofia. Its swift currents are wide enough to allow 4, 5 or even 8-seat boats through.”

Rafting is also practiced along three other big rivers in Southern Bulgaria – Mesta, Arda and Maritza. However, they present a greater challenge than Strouma, and are not suitable for amateurs. Dr. Makarov says more on how amateurs fare in rafting.

“They tend to rely on the instructor. The right strategy is to count on the team instead. They are together to be useful to each other. They have to wear special outfits. Any risky activity done for pleasure is expensive. In our case security comes first. Man has to judge his power and not challenge nature too much. Rafting fans are equipped with special vests to keep them above water during possible accidents and to protect them from cold water and from the rocks. They wear helmets and neoprene outfits. Well, the oar they use is also important.”

If you want to own a rafting outfit, it costs some 3000 euro. If you are a newcomer, and want to have a try, better rent one from the rafting clubs. The price is 25 euro. Children under 12 are not allowed in rafting teams. Underage youths should be together with one of their parents. Rescue canoes escort rafting boats to enhance security of inexperienced rafters. “Rafting is incomparable fun”, Kiril Makarov exclaims and adds that many hotels in the nearby towns of Bansko, Sandanski and Simitli include rafting in their tourist packages as a special attraction.

Written by Sylvia Nikolova
Translated by Daniela Konstantinova

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