When running the rapids, the skill of our highly trained top-notch guides is a huge factor in determining that you have a thrilling experience that keeps safety in mind at all times.
If you enjoyed the rafting experience and feel that your guide provided you with excellent service in the areas of whitewater skill, enthusiasm and care with your group, general knowledge of the river and surrounding area, etc., then a gratuity is always greatly appreciated.
Sizing of gratuities for whitewater river guides depends on many factors – these include, but are not limited to – the length of the trip, the cost of the trip, and the level of whitewater on your trip. A gratuity is usually based on the number of people in your rafting party or by using a percentage formula based on the overall cost of the rafting trip. Gratuities based on a per person basis might be $10-$15 per person for a full-day rafting trip. Using a percentage formula, gratuities in the 15%-25% range of the full-day trip cost are standard. Gratuities may range from that amount for certain demanding, expensive, and/or high-level day trips.
Gratuities can be given directly to the guide or to front-desk staff, depending on the situation. Tips can be given when you are safely back at the river base at the end of the adventure, in person, or left at the service desk if the guide is unavailable because of other duties.
Usually, after the trip, our guides can be found behind the base performing glamorous tasks such as washing wetsuits and putting away rafts. They will be very happy to take a break from what they are doing to see you off and say goodbye. Your guide will always be very grateful for any appreciation you might show them.
