In this article
In this article
If you're looking to go rafting in Andorra or kayaking in Andorra, I need to tell you something important: Andorra itself doesn't have rivers with enough flow for real rafting. But don't worry — just 30 minutes away you've got Parc Olímpic del Segre, and at 1h30 some of the best white water in Europe.
My name is Manuel and I was born and raised in Andorra. I've researched the options available. In this guide I'll tell you exactly where to go, where to book, and what it'll cost you.
I'll also tell you about an option most people don't know: the Ariège River in France, 1h30 from Andorra's center, where you can canoe or kayak on your own without a guide. If you're planning your trip, I recommend checking my guide on other things to do in Andorra in 2-3 days. If you prefer something calmer, I've also got a guide to Andorra's lakes, with options to swim and hike.
The Reality of Rafting in Andorra
I'll be direct: you can't go rafting in Andorra. The Valira River that crosses the country doesn't have the flow or rapids needed. All the companies you see advertising "rafting in Andorra" actually take you to rivers in Spain or France.
This isn't a bad thing though — quite the opposite. The closest option is the Parc Olímpic del Segre in La Seu d'Urgell, just 30 minutes away. And if you want more adrenaline, the Noguera Pallaresa River in the Catalan Pyrenees is one of the best white water rivers in all of Europe, at 1h30 from Andorra la Vella.
The main options are:
- Parc Olímpic del Segre (La Seu d'Urgell) - Artificial canal, 30 min away
- Noguera Pallaresa River (Llavorsí/Sort) - The classic, 1h30 from Andorra
- Ariège River (France) - Canoeing/kayaking on your own, 1h30 from Andorra
Parc Olímpic del Segre: The Closest Option
Parc Olímpic del Segre - white water canal in La Seu d'Urgell. Source: parcolimpicdelsegre.cat
If you don't want to drive 1h30, Parc Olímpic del Segre in La Seu d'Urgell is just 30 minutes from Andorra. It's an artificial white water canal built for the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.
Rafting here is different: you do 4 runs down the canal instead of one long river descent. It's shorter but very intense, and perfect if you're short on time or traveling with kids. Plus, it's open year-round, making it ideal even in low season.
📍 Practical information
- Distance from Andorra: ~30 min drive
- Duration: 1 hour
- Prices: Canoeing from €16/person | White water kayaking 1h for €48/person
- Minimum age: 9 years (rafting/white water kayaking)
- Season: Open year-round
- Also available: Group rafting, hydrospeed
For booking, you've got several options at the same price as the official website (no middleman fees):
Kayaking 1 hour (€48)
Book your 1-hour kayaking tour at Parc Olímpic with instant confirmation on Booking.
Canoeing 1 hour (€16)
More affordable option, perfect for beginners or a relaxing paddle down the canal.
Official Website
For multi-adventure packages, hydrospeed, or personalized courses directly with the park.
Noguera Pallaresa River: The Classic Rafting Experience
Rafting on the Noguera Pallaresa, one of Europe's best rivers. Source: raftingllavorsi.cat
The Noguera Pallaresa is the reference river for rafting in the Pyrenees. It runs through the Pallars Sobirà region (Lleida) and offers sections for all levels, from families with kids to experts looking for adrenaline.
The most popular section is Llavorsí to Rialp, 14 km of river with rapids like "La Lavadora" or "Quatre Llarg". The pace is progressive: it starts calm so the group gets in sync, then gradually increases in intensity.
📍 Practical information
- Distance from Andorra: ~1h30 drive to Llavorsí/Sort
- Season: June to October (best in May-June for higher flow)
- Activity duration: 2-3 hours (depending on section)
- Price: From €29-35/person (14km section)
- Minimum age: 6-12 years depending on season and flow
Recommended Companies
There are several companies operating in the area. I recommend booking directly with them rather than through intermediaries, so you get the best price and direct service. Here are the most established and experienced:
Rafting Llavorsí
One of the oldest companies, operating since 1986. Based in Llavorsí, in the heart of Pallars Sobirà. Pioneers in the area with decades of experience.
- 📍 Llavorsí (Lleida)
- 📅 Since 1986
- 💰 Rafting from €29 (basic section)
- 👨👩👧 Family options available
Rafting Pallars
Another company with a long history since 1986. Specialists in rafting, hydrospeed and other adventure activities in Pallars. Professional and certified team.
- 📍 Sort (Lleida)
- 📅 Since 1986
- 💰 Various sections and prices
- 🎯 Also offer canyoning and other activities
Roc Roi
One of the most established companies in Pallars. Based in Llavorsí with free parking for customers. All equipment included and certified guides.
- 📍 Llavorsí (Lleida)
- 💰 From €35 (14km section)
- 👨👩👧 Kids from age 6 in summer, 12 in spring
La Rafting Company
Based in Sort, in the town center. They offer various sections from 14km to 42km (full day). Also have canyoning and other activities.
- 📍 Sort (Lleida)
- 💰 From €47 (18km morning section)
- ⏰ Meeting at 9:50am, finishing around 1:30pm
Routes and Prices
| Route | Distance | Level | Approx. price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Llavorsí - Rialp | 14 km | Intermediate | €29-35 |
| Llavorsí - Sort | 18 km | Intermediate-Advanced | €47-55 |
| Full day | 42-52 km | Advanced | €80-100 |
Prices may vary by season and company. Always include full equipment (wetsuit, helmet, life jacket) and professional guide.
Ariège River (France): Canoeing and Kayaking on Your Own
Ariège Evasion - base for canoeing and kayaking on the Ariège River. Source: ariege-evasion.com
This is an option most people don't know about. The Ariège River is in France, 1h30 from Andorra, and offers something different: canoeing or kayaking on your own, without a guide.
Ariège Evasion is a leading company since 1991. They give you the equipment (canoe or kayak, waterproof containers, river map) and you go at your own pace. You can stop for a picnic, swim, sunbathe... and at the end they pick you up by shuttle.
📍 Ariège Evasion
- Location: Ornolac-Ussat-les-Bains, France
- Distance from Andorra: ~1h30 drive
- Season: April - October
- River level: Class II (of V) - mountain torrent
- Requirement: Able to swim 25 meters minimum
- Founded: 1991 (over 30 years experience)
Routes and prices
| Route | Distance | Adult | Child (-16) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Discovery (easy) | 3 km | €17 | €15 |
| Whitewater | 9 km | €27 | €23 |
| Escape (classic) | 12 km | €30 | €26 |
| Adventure (intense) | 12 km | €32 | €28 |
Family Pack (2 adults + 2 kids): from €89 for the 9km route
Kayaking in Andorra: Mon(t) Magic
Mon(t) Magic Family Park in Canillo - water activities and adventure
If you want to kayak without leaving Andorra, the only real option is Mon(t) Magic Family Park in Canillo (Grandvalira). It's not white water kayaking — it's recreational kayaking on a calm lake — but it can be a good option if you're traveling with kids or just want to spend some time on the water without complications.
The park has many more activities: Magic Gliss toboggan of 555 meters, 550-meter zipline, trampolines, mini-golf... Kayaking and canoeing on the lake are just one of the options. If you're interested, I've got a complete article about toboggans in Andorra where I discuss Tobotronc and Magic Gliss in detail.
📍 Mon(t) Magic Family Park
- Location: Canillo sector, Grandvalira
- Access: Cable car from Canillo
- Season 2026: June 20 - September 13
- Hours: 10am - 6pm (until 7pm in August)
- Water activities: Kayaking, canoeing, water scooters
Practical Tips
🗓️ When to go?
Parc Olímpic del Segre: Open year-round, ideal for any time.
May-June: More water from snowmelt, more adrenaline, colder water. Higher minimum age (12 years) on natural rivers.
July-September: Less flow, calmer, ideal for families. Kids from age 6 on natural rivers.
🎒 What to bring?
- Swimwear and towel
- Sunscreen (you'll get wet but the sun's strong)
- Footwear that can get wet (no flip-flops)
- Glasses strap if you wear glasses
- Thermal shirt or rash guard (optional, for extra protection)
Companies provide wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets.
📱 Booking
I recommend booking in advance, especially in July-August and on weekends. All the companies I mention allow you to book online directly on their websites.
🚗 Transportation
You'll need a car to reach these options. Some companies offer transport from Andorra, but it costs more. Parc Olímpic del Segre (La Seu) is just 30 minutes away, very accessible.
In Summary
- ⏱️ Closest option: Parc Olímpic del Segre (30 min, open year-round)
- 🏆 Best rafting experience: Noguera Pallaresa (Llavorsí-Rialp, 1h30)
- 🆓 Most affordable: Ariège Evasion (from €17, canoeing/kayaking on your own)
- 👨👩👧 Families with small kids: Mon(t) Magic (kayaking on calm lake)
- 🚀 Looking for adrenaline: Noguera Pallaresa in May-June (peak flow)
Born and raised in Encamp, Andorra. In my free time I explore my country and share the best activities, trails and hidden spots that most travel guides don't mention.
