Packrafting in Mexico’s remote jungle rivers through some of the most beautiful, wild, and untouched landscapes is an experience of a lifetime. Let me take you on a trip through one of North America’s most untouched wildernesses. Welcome to the state of Chiapas, Mexico!
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What Exactly is Packrafting?
Packrafting offers a unique and versatile adventure experience, unlike your typical canoe or kayak. These lightweight, inflatable boats are transforming how we explore more remote and hard-to-reach locations.
The most amazing thing is that you can carry your raft in our attached backpack. You can get as low as 7.9 pounds for multi-day, whitewater, backpacking with dimensions of 20” x 7.5”.
Why Choose Mexico for Your Packrafting Adventure?
Hopefully, the images in this article will convince you but here are a few reasons:
- Pristine rivers rarely seen by anyone
- Jaw-dropping limestone canyons
- Ancient Mayan ruins hidden in the jungle
- A perfect blend of adrenaline and peace
I used Nahau Expeditions, check them out.
Nahau Expeditions collaborates closely with local villagers near the river, providing employment opportunities in guiding, logistics, and village accommodations. Additionally, a portion of their profits is donated to enhance living conditions in these communities, such as building new, safer ovens for each home, and to support the preservation of the river and its surrounding environment.
The 11-Day Expedition: What to Expect
Day 1: Orientation in Tuxtla Gutierrez
Landing in Tuxtla Gutierrez, you’ll feel the excitement building. After check-in, it’s time for the group orientation, where you will meet your fellow rafters and get all the information on what’s to come.
Day 2-8: Into the Heart of the Jungle
This is where the fun begins! You’ll hike into the canyon to the river, about a 4-mile hike taking around 3 hours to complete. Once you reach the river you will set up your raft and set off to a waterfall and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the water.
I found the best photography days to be day 2/3 at the first campsite located underneath the waterfall. As well as days 7 and 8 where you have the opportunity to cliff dive above a waterfall and check out the epic narrow canyon before your ascent.
Highlights Include:
- Navigating the legendary “Maze” – a 1-mile rock garden that will test and improve your paddling skills.
- Quest through the jungle to find ancient Mayan ruins
- Conquering “El Jefe” or “The Boss“– the trip’s biggest rapid (don’t worry, you’ll scout it first)
- Explore one of the region’s karst systems (featuring sinkholes, caves, and springs), an underground world, and discover old Mayan pottery.
- Camping under the world’s tallest natural arch.
- Endless photography opportunities along the river.
Day 9-11: From Jungle to Colonial Charm
After an epic rope ascent and a challenging 3-hour hike out of the canyon, you’ll transition from jungle explorer to cultural enthusiast in the town of San Cristobal de las Casa. The perfect town to eat amazing food and recharge after your time in the jungle. This will also be the time you say goodbye to all of the new friends you made during the trip.
No Experience? No Problem
This was mine and several people on the trip’s first experience with packrafting. You don’t need to be a pro paddler to enjoy this trip. The river progression is perfect for beginners. By the end, you’ll be navigating Class III rapids like a pro.
Gear Talk: What You Need for Packrafting in Mexico
The guide service you use should give you a list of what is provided and what you need to bring. Here are my recommendations:
- Light Weight Tent (my go-to Big Agnes Copper Spur Tent)
- Sleeping Bag Liner (it is warm no need for a full sleeping bag)
- Sleeping Pad and Pillow with repair kit
- Lightweight, quick-dry clothing
- Closed-toe hiking shoes (trail runners)/hiking socks
- Sturdy water shoes or sandals
- Dry bags (this is a must) – main bag and smaller bags for organization.
- Headlamp
- Backpacking Food
- Utensils / Mug
- Water Purification (My favorite is Grayl UltraPress Purifier Bottle)
- Water Bottle to store water ( Nalgene 32 oz.)
- A lightweight chair ( Helinox Chair Zero at 1lb) with a ground sheet so you don’t sink in the sand.
- Water Gloves to protect hands from blisters (rowing)
- Wag Bags ( you have to pack out your poop!)
- River Safe Soap
- River Safe Sun Protection & Lip Balm
- Hat & Sunglasses
- Bug Repellent (the jungle is no joke)
- Medicine Kit (prescriptions, hand sanitizer, Imodium, pain and fever medicine, etc.)
When to Go: Timing Your Mexico Packrafting Adventure
The sweet spot for this trip is February to May. You’ll avoid the heavy rains and enjoy perfect paddling conditions. Expect daily highs around 82°F (28°C) and lows around 63°F (17°C).
Getting There
Most international travelers will connect through Mexico City or Guadalajara before landing at Angel Albino Corzo International Airport in Tuxtla Gutierrez. From there it is about a 45-minute taxi ride to downtown Tuxtla Gutierrez.
Why You’ll Fall in Love with Packrafting in Mexico
Packrafting through Mexico’s hidden rivers isn’t just a trip; it’s one of those transformative experiences. You’ll push your limits, make lifelong friends, and see a side of Mexico that few others have witnessed. It is raw, it’s real, and it’s beyond beautiful.
Are you ready to trade your desk chair for a packraft and embark on the adventure of a lifetime? Then leave your comfort zone behind and get ready for a river ride of a lifetime!
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