Pack Rafting the Lao River: 4 km Guided Raft Pack Experience from Laino Borgo, Calabria
Difficulty
moderate
Duration
1–1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Moderate; able to paddle actively, perform brief swims or quick exits, and follow guide commands
Overview
A 90-minute, guide-led pack-raft run on the Lao River that threads rapids and calm pools beneath the old village of Laino Castello. Perfect for solo-style paddlers who want an active, safe taste of Calabria’s river gorges.
Pack Rafting the Lao River: 4 km Guided Raft Pack Experience from Laino Borgo, Calabria
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You step off the gravel at River Tribe and the Lao River is already speaking—low, steady pulses that quicken where the channel narrows. Guides fit you into a single-seat pack raft, handed a paddle that feels like a key. For the next 4 km the river alternates moods: playful, toothy rapids that demand attention; long, glassy pools that invite you to breathe and look up at Laino Castello clinging to the opposite rim.
Adventure Photos
Adventure Tips
Arrive early and park
Follow signs from the A2 Laino Borgo exit and allow extra time to check in at River Tribe—there’s a Q8 station landmark nearby.
Wear secure water shoes
Neoprene shoes are provided, but bring or request footwear that locks to your feet—pack rafts are single-seat and require quick exits.
Protect electronics
Stash phones in a small dry bag or leave them at base; the river has playful rapids that can flip a raft.
Hydrate and layer
Bring a light base layer for spring/fall runs and sunscreen for summer—the river can be cool even on warm days.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- European otter
- Common kingfisher
History
The Lao River carved steep gullies that sheltered mountain villages like Laino Castello; the valley’s settlements have a long history of pastoral life and seasonal trade.
Conservation
River Tribe operates with an eco-sustainable focus and encourages leave-no-trace practices to protect river health and local habitats.
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Adventure Hotspots in Laino Borgo
Recommended Gear
Closed-toe water shoes
Grips feet in rapids and protects toes on rocky shorelines.
Quick-dry top or thermal layer
Keeps you warm during cool-season runs when wetsuits alone may not suffice.
spring specific
Sunscreen and polarized sunglasses
Reduces glare on water and protects skin during exposed stretches.
summer specific
Small waterproof dry bag (5–10L)
Keeps phone, keys and spare layer safe and dry during the trip.