What to wear and bring

You will be wet from the first wade to the last. Dress for water and mud, not for photos, and you will enjoy the day far more.

Feet first

Wear closed-toe water shoes or sport sandals with straps and a grippy sole. You wade to launch the kayak, cross the river on slick rock and walk a mile of mud each way; flip-flops come off and bare feet get cut. Reviewers' most repeated tip: shoes you do not mind ruining, and a walking stick if one is offered.

Clothes and sun

Swimsuit under quick-dry shorts and a light top; a thin rain layer in winter. Reef-safe sunscreen, a hat and sunglasses with a strap for the open river; bug spray for the trail.

In the dry bag

Outfitters lend dry bags. Pack plenty of water, lunch or snacks (lunch is included only on some tours), a phone in a waterproof pouch, a small towel and a dry shirt for afterwards. Leave jewellery and valuables at the hotel. And before you pack anything, check that the trail is open: see the closure status.