River trekking is a very progressive form of trekking and can be very demanding both physically and mentally. It requires things like rock climbing, swimming, and lots of planning. This is why you must be absolutely confident of carrying out each ability in the best possible manner.
The attraction to river trekking is the danger and the satisfaction you get when you execute the trek. It also takes a lot of preparation; you should have previous experience rock climbing and be ready to handle slippery surfaces. River trekking also involves the geographical understanding of rivers and canyons.
You should be ready to make split second judgements when going river trekking as it can be a very risky and hazardous activity. You may find yourself in situations of drowning, exhaustion, getting lost, falling from a cliff or slipping on a rock, which is why you should be very assured of your own judgement.
Most of these risks are hard to prevent if you don't expect them, but there are things that you can prepare for a little easier. These include changes in weather that can raise the water levels and create stronger currents. You should always know your exit points in order to avoid this scenario.
You may come across low-visibility conditions; this may occur at night or if there is a lot of fog around. This can be safely prevented by carrying a lightweight, waterproof torch with you at all times. If you can get one that can be mounted on your head you may find this highly useful for river trekking.
Often, you will come across steep cliffs that you must navigate through, this can be difficult for the average trekker. This is why it is definitely recommended that you have some prior rock climbing experience. This experience can actually save your life on a slippery cliff.
River trekking requires many similar uncertainties like this; most river trekking places have a star rating for the difficulty of a certain trek. This will be very handy for trekkers of all levels. Typically, an one star river trek can be accomplished by a regular healthy person, whereas a five star trek will demand a lot of ability and strength to successfully accomplish.
You must keep these risks in mind before heading out on your next river trekking holiday, never go for a river trek that you may find it too difficult to accomplish. You may want to push yourself to the limit but river trekking can be a whole new ball game. It can be drastically dangerous and death is not uncommon.
As long as you know your limits and can confidently do all the things a river trek may call for you will be able to stay safe. I would always advise that you never undertake your river trekking trip alone, always do it with at least one other person as able as you.
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