You’ll paddle through lively rapids on Brotas’ Jacaré Pepira River with an expert local guide leading your group. Expect splashes, laughter, calm stretches under green trees, and warm drinks waiting at the finish line. Private transportation makes things easy so you can focus on the thrill — and maybe get your shoes soaked too.
The first thing I remember is the cold splash — not even five minutes in and my shoes were soaked. We’d just pushed off from the bank of the Jacaré Pepira River near Brotas, and our guide, Rafael, grinned like he’d seen it all before. The river sounded louder than I expected, like a deep rolling laugh under the trees. Seven of us squeezed into the inflatable boat, helmets a bit crooked, everyone pretending not to be nervous (except for Rafael). He started us paddling right away — “Mais forte! Stronger!” he shouted — and honestly, I was already out of breath by the second rapid.
I liked how Rafael kept things light. At one point he pointed out a kingfisher darting past — just a flash of blue against all that green. The air smelled sharp and leafy after last night’s rain. The rapids came in bursts: sometimes you’re bouncing so hard you can’t hear yourself think, then suddenly it’s calm again and you’re floating past tangled roots and little waterfalls. Someone behind me let out a whoop when we hit the biggest drop (I think it was me). There’s this moment where everything goes quiet except for the water — kind of peaceful, actually.
Afterwards, back on dry land and still dripping wet, they handed us hot chocolate thick with honey. My hands were shaking but not from cold anymore. It felt good to laugh about who fell in (nobody this time), swap stories with the guides, watch them joke around in Portuguese. I keep thinking about that stretch of river — how wild it felt but also safe because of these folks who knew every bend and current by heart. If you’re looking for rafting in Brotas or want a day trip on Jacaré Pepira River with pickup and local guides… well, I’d go again just for that feeling.
Yes, private transportation is included for participants.
Each inflatable boat holds up to seven people plus the guide.
Yes, it’s suitable for all fitness levels; guides provide full instruction.
You’ll get juice or hot chocolate drizzled with honey after your trip.
Personal safety equipment including helmets and wind-jackets are included.
Infants must sit on an adult’s lap; check restrictions if traveling with young kids.
Yes, wheelchair users can participate in this activity.
Yes, service animals are permitted during the experience.
Your day includes private transportation to and from Brotas’ Jacaré Pepira River, all personal safety gear like helmets and wind-jackets, entry fees for river access, plus juice or hot chocolate served with honey once you finish paddling — all led by experienced local guides who know every twist of the river.
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