Brotas rafting: 8 kilometers of river rapids

Eight kilometers of river, forest and the chance to slide down stone

You arrive at the Brotas base, get driven to the Jacaré Pepira riverbank, receive safety instruction, then spend hours paddling through forest and whitewater with chances to slide down stone or surf a wave. Helmet, life jacket, boat and transport are all included, and the operation is ISO certified. Bring wet-friendly clothes and footwear that stays on.

Step-by-step itinerary

Rafting adventure on River Jacaré Pepira

• Depart from Brotas city center
• Travel to riverbank
• Receive safety instructions
• Practice rowing and safety commands
• Raft along 8 km river route
• Play optional river games
• Return to base

The Experience

The Jacaré Pepira River cuts through preserved forest outside Brotas, and the moment you're in the boat, the city noise stops. You push off from the base in the center of town after a short transport ride to the riverbank, and the guide walks through the safety commands — how to hold the oar, what "left" and "right" means when the water's moving, where your feet go. It takes maybe ten minutes. Then you're on the water, and the 8 kilometers ahead have falls, tight lanes between rock, and depending on the water level, two optional plays: a natural stone slide you descend in just your vest and helmet, or positioning the boat in a wave to surf it.

The river is one of the few unpolluted tributaries of the Tietê, and the forest around it is thick enough that you might see monkeys, toucans or quatis if you're quiet and lucky. The rafting trip itself takes the morning or afternoon — you're not rushed, and the guide reads the water to choose which sections suit the group. The operation is ISO 21101 certified, which means the equipment and the training are audited; your helmet, life jacket, boat and oars are all included, and they're checked before you launch.

What you bring matters: clothes that can get soaked, shoes that won't slip off your feet, sunscreen and insect repellent. The river is cold enough that you'll feel it, but not so cold that it shocks. If you're under 1.10 meters tall or over 120 kilograms, the activity isn't available; the guide will tell you this upfront when you book. Transport from the base in Brotas is part of the package, so you don't arrange a separate ride to the put-in.

What’s included

Private transport from the Brotas base to the river and back, safety instruction and paddle training, helmet, life jacket, boat and oars for the 8-kilometer trip down the Jacaré Pepira River.

Good to know

Easy physical levelWheelchair accessibleStroller friendlyPets welcomePublic transport nearbyNot for pregnant travelersNot for heart conditionsNot for back problems

Operated by Brotas Rafting

Is this one for you?Book this if you want to spend a morning or afternoon on the water without arranging your own transport or equipment—the base in Brotas handles the logistics, and the ISO certification means the safety setup is audited and consistent.

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Top questions

How long is the rafting trip on the Jacaré Pepira River?

The trip covers 8 kilometers of river with various falls and narrow sections. Duration depends on water level and group pace, typically a half-day activity.

What's included in the Brotas rafting package?

Private transport from the base in Brotas to the riverbank, helmet, life jacket, boat, oars, and all safety instruction. Return transport is also included.

Can I do the natural slide during the rafting trip?

Yes, the slider is an optional play where you descend a natural stone slide wearing only your vest and helmet. It's available depending on water level and group comfort.

What are the height and weight limits for this rafting trip?

Minimum height is 1.10 meters. Maximum weight is 120 kilograms.

Is the Jacaré Pepira River safe for rafting?

Yes. It's one of the few unpolluted tributaries of the Tietê River and is one of the best-known rafting sites in São Paulo state. The operation is ISO 21101 certified.

What wildlife might I see on the river?

The preserved forest around the river is home to monkeys, toucans and quatis. Sightings depend on water conditions and how quiet the group is.

What should I wear for the Brotas rafting trip?

Light, comfortable clothes that can get wet, footwear that won't come off your feet, sunscreen and insect repellent.

Is the rafting trip suitable for beginners?

Yes. The guide provides full safety instruction before launch and trains you on paddle commands and technique while in the boat.