Line up your paddle and brace: Chifenti’s reach of the Serchio delivers short, technical rapids and slides that favor nimble edging and quick reads. This guided packraft run packs adrenaline into a tight, scenic stretch north of Lucca.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
The river takes command before you do: a cold, gray ribbon that narrows and accelerates between ancient stone banks and broad-leaved trees. Guides at the rafting center hand over helmets and packrafts with efficient, unsentimental calm — the kind that says they know what the water will do. Within minutes you’re on Via del Brennero, engines humming toward the entry point, the guide running through strokes and safety checks with a tone that mixes instruction and quiet confidence.
Difficulty
challenging
Duration
1.5–2 hours
Fitness Level
Requires moderate to high cardiovascular fitness, core strength, and comfort in moving water
Wildlife
History
The Serchio valley has long supported small mills and mountain villages; the river shaped trade and agriculture routes connecting the Apennines to Lucca.
Conservation
Operators promote low-impact practices: avoid littering, respect riparian plants and follow guide instructions to minimize disturbance to wildlife.
Reserve your spot on the Extreme Kayaking in Chifenti today and enjoy a trusted, highly rated experience designed to help you make the most of your adventure.
Bring a change of clothes
Everything gets wet — have quick-dry layers and a towel in your car or locker at the center.
Know your water skills
Be comfortable swimming in moving water and able to follow guide commands for swift, safe rescues.
Footwear matters
Wear secure, closed-toe water shoes or neoprene booties to protect toes during exits and portages.
Charge a backup
Bring a small waterproof camera or trust the guide photos — phone use on rapids risks loss.
Neoprene booties or water shoes
Protects feet on rocky entry/exit points and improves grip in the boat.
Quick-dry base layer
Adds warmth under the provided wetsuit during cool spring runs.
spring
Light waterproof jacket
Useful post-run for warmth when temperatures drop after paddling.
fall
Small dry bag or waterproof phone case
Keeps essentials dry and secures your phone while the guides capture photos.
summer