White Water Rafting · Ilanz
How to choose
Both tours run on the Vorderrhein River with Swiss River Adventures, rated 5/5 across 6 reviews. The entry option (88 CHF, 3.5h to 6h) starts directly from Ilanz and accepts all levels, making it the go-to for first-timers or mixed groups. The premium tour (148 CHF, 4h) launches from Versam near Ilanz, targets participants comfortable with occasional physical effort, and covers a more demanding stretch of the river. The 60 CHF gap reflects the difference in technical challenge and put-in point. If your group includes complete beginners, book the 88 CHF option. If everyone is reasonably fit and wants a harder run, the 148 CHF tour delivers more intensity for the price.
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Our picks
Rafting on the Vorderrhein River from Ilanz
Open to all levels, rated 5/5, and priced from 88 CHF with up to 6h on the Vorderrhein.
Rafting on the Vorderrhein River from Versam near Ilanz
The Versam put-in targets physically active paddlers and hits a more demanding corridor of the river for 148 CHF.
Frequently asked questions
What's the most intense moment on the Vorderrhein?
The biggest rapids hit mid-run when the river narrows and volume picks up. The Versam tour is rated 'Occasionally sporty', meaning you will work to stay in the raft through the stronger sections.
Do I need rafting experience to join?
The Ilanz tour is open to everybody with no prior experience required. The Versam tour asks for occasional physical effort, so some baseline fitness helps.
How cold is the water on the Vorderrhein?
The Vorderrhein is fed by Alpine snowmelt, so water temperatures run cold even in summer. Your guide will provide a wetsuit to handle it.
Which tour gives more time on the water?
The Ilanz tour runs 3.5h to 6h depending on conditions and group pace, so it can actually outlast the fixed 4h Versam session. If you want maximum time on the river, the Ilanz tour is your best bet.
Are guides available in English?
Yes. Both tours are guided in German and English by Swiss River Adventures.
Best time to go
| Month | Temperature | Rainfall | Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | -2°C | 117.8 mm | Poor |
| February | 0.8°C | 100.7 mm | Poor |
| March | 1.8°C | 126.6 mm | Poor |
| April | 6.1°C | 135.9 mm | Possible |
| May | 8.7°C | 149.5 mm | Possible |
| June | 13.4°C | 140.5 mm | Possible |
| July | 17.7°C | 201.7 mm | Possible |
| August | 17°C | 192 mm | Possible |
| September | 14.5°C | 121.6 mm | Possible |
| October | 8.7°C | 114.9 mm | Possible |
| November | 2.6°C | 119.7 mm | Poor |
| December | -4.3°C | 96.9 mm | Possible |
Practical info
Equipment
Wetsuit, helmet and buoyancy aid are provided by Swiss River Adventures. Bring a swimsuit to wear underneath, secure water shoes or old trainers, and a dry bag for your phone and valuables. For the Versam tour rated 'Occasionally sporty', keep your footwear firmly laced.
Getting there
The Ilanz tour meets at Ilanz Train Station (7130 Ilanz, Switzerland), directly accessible by rail on the Rhaetian Railway from Chur in under 30 minutes. The Versam tour meets at Rafting Basis Reichenau in Tamins, reachable by car or as arranged with your instructor.
See also
White Water Rafting elsewhere
Updated March 2026