Soca River: Rafting Adventure with Private Transfer & Guide

Summary

Rafting the Soca River with local guides, laughter and splashes

You’ll paddle down Slovenia’s Soca River with a local guide who knows every bend and rapid. Expect laughter, chilly splashes, and a few quiet moments drifting between bursts of excitement. All gear is included plus private transport from Bovec — just bring your sense of adventure (and maybe dry socks).

What’s the experience like?

We’d barely zipped up our wetsuits when Luka, our guide, grinned and handed me a paddle. “Don’t worry,” he said, “the river’s cold but you’ll forget in two minutes.” He was right — by the time we slid into the Soca River, my nerves had turned into this weird excitement that made me laugh for no reason. The water is this unreal blue-green, almost like someone dropped food coloring in it (they didn’t). I could hear birds somewhere upstream and the rubber raft squeaked every time we shifted around.

I tried to copy Luka’s paddling style — he made it look so easy — but mostly I just splashed myself in the face. At one point he shouted something in Slovenian to another group and they all cheered; I still don’t know what he said but everyone seemed to be having a good time. The rapids aren’t huge (at least on our stretch), but there’s enough bounce to get your heart going. My hands got numb at first from the cold water dripping off the paddle, but honestly I stopped noticing after a while because we were too busy laughing whenever someone nearly fell out.

There was this quiet patch where we just floated for a minute — no talking, just the sound of water moving past rocks and that fresh pine smell from the banks. I didn’t expect to feel so calm out there; it’s not something you can really photograph. Luka pointed out some trout darting under the surface (I missed them), then told us about growing up near Bovec and how his grandmother still swims here every summer. That stuck with me for some reason.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Rafting on the Soca River

• Join rafting tour on Soca River
• Raft for approximately 1 hour 30 minutes

Top questions

How long does the Soca River rafting tour last?

The rafting part lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes.

Is hotel pickup included in this Soca River rafting tour?

The tour includes transport by private vehicle but doesn’t specify hotel pickup.

What equipment is provided for Soca River rafting?

All necessary rafting equipment is included in the tour.

Is this Soca River rafting suitable for children?

Yes, children aged 5 and up can join if they know how to swim and are accompanied by an adult.

Are there any health restrictions for joining?

This activity isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with spinal or cardiovascular issues.

What’s included

Your day includes all taxes and fees, full rafting equipment, guidance from a local expert on the Soca River, plus private vehicle transport to and from Bovec before you dry off and head back.