Description Packraft : Packraft expedition day

Trip Schedule & Logistics

1. 09:30 AM – Welcome & Gear Preparation : Rendezvous at our main base in Castellane. We begin with a warm welcome and prepare our individual expedition packs. You will pack your lunch, snacks, and drinks securely into heavy-duty waterproof dry bags.
2. The Shuttle & Launch : We board our minibus for a short drive to the river launch site. Once by the water, we inflate the packrafts, conduct a thorough inspection of safety equipment (certified life jackets and helmets), and listen to the guide's comprehensive navigation briefing.
3. The River Descent : And off we go! The 23-kilometer route is perfectly progressive. The first few kilometers offer a gentle flow, allowing you to easily familiarize yourself with your boat's handling and steering.
4. Entering the Gorge : Soon enough, the towering limestone cliffs that shape the famous gorge begin to rise around us, and the riverbed narrows. We approach the first major whitewater challenge: the famous "Barre Saint-Jean" rapid. It is time to lock in your focus and hold your line!
5. The Wilderness Lunch & Breaks : Throughout the day, we will take plenty of breaks to swim in the refreshing waters, snap stunning photos, or simply soak in the incredible wilderness. We will pull over onto a secluded river beach for a relaxing picnic lunch and perhaps a quick, peaceful siesta under the sun.
6. The Grand Canyon Finale : The adventure resumes on more tumultuous, fast-paced waters. The cliffs surrounding us grow higher and more dramatic as we approach the gates of the Grand Canyon. Keep your eyes wide open, but stay fully concentrated: the final rapid, "Le Solitaire," will demand your absolute attention if you want to stay inside your boat!
7. 04:30 PM – The Exit Hike : We reach our landing point. Time for a final, rewarding physical effort: a 30-minute hike up the historic trail leading to the Couloir Samson parking lot. Do not panic—the incredible advantage of packrafts is that they are exceptionally lightweight and ultra-compact, making them remarkably easy to carry when deflated.
8. Return to Base : Our minibus waits for us at the top of the trail for a comfortable 30-minute drive back to the base in Castellane.

Booking & Availability

This premium expedition requires specific water flows and is available exclusively on reservation during the following periods:

1. Spring and Autumn : On specific days when the upstream EDF dams are open and releasing water.
2. July and August : Offered exclusively on Tuesdays (high-flow water release days).

Required Physical Level & Prerequisites

1. Difficulty : Challenging and Sporty. This is a long, full-day river journey that requires good physical stamina.
2. Prerequisites : You must know how to swim confidently, be comfortable putting your head underwater, and have prior paddling experience (such as kayaking or canoeing) to master your individual craft in moving whitewater.
3. What to bring : A packed picnic lunch, water, a swimsuit, and a sturdy pair of lace-up athletic running shoes or trainers that will go completely into the water. Thin aqua slippers are strictly proscribed.

 

Localisation Packraft : Packraft expedition day

You can use this map to locate and calculate your route by clicking on the marker. The estimated time by Google is to increase by 20%, which corresponds to our small mountain roads.