Class I is considered moving flatwater with minimal obstacles or obstructions.

Class II rapids have minor obstacles.

Class III rapids are considered "intermediate" in skill level, and have significant features like waves and holes to navigate through, which are considered FUN!

Class IV rapids demand precise navigation through formidable river features, and present significant consequences for errors. Swimming a Class IV rapid will likely be a very memorable experience.

Class V rivers and rapids should only be attempted by groups of expert paddlers taking all necessary safety precautions, and represents the limit of navigability for rafting.

Class VI represents extreme rapids which can only be run once.

General Advice for Rafting

Getting Around Travelling with kayaks in Ecuador

River Beta Guide to Rafting & Kayaking in Ecuador