Tampaón River — Class III Rafting
Aquismón · Adventure
14 km of Class III rapids in turquoise water through a 500m canyon — one of the 10 most scenic rivers in North America.
Tampaón River — Class III Rafting is part of Rafting on the Tampaón River — Class III Rapids on Turquoise Water
$1,850 MXN per person · Free cancellation 48 h before
Practical info
Good to know
Never paddle on your own in Jul–Aug — sudden surges of several meters in minutes. Guides CANNOT provide medication — bring your own. Cash only in Tanchachín.
How to get there
45 min from Ciudad Valles · Highway 70 → Ejido Tanchachín turnoff · Last 18 km passable dirt road
What to bring
- · cotton socks inside your water shoes (prevent blisters)
- · a double change of dry clothes in the vehicle
- · 100% biodegradable sunscreen (required)
- · GoPro with a chest or helmet mount only
- · your own medication
Did you know?
- · The turquoise water comes from the high concentration of karst minerals in the riverbed — the same mechanism that colors the Tamul falls.
- · The 'La Tumba' rapid happens where the canyon walls close in so tightly the echo disappears — total silence before the most technical rapid of the descent.
Frequently asked questions
Is it safe to raft the Tampaón River if I can't swim?+
Yes, as long as you use the high-quality flotation gear from certified operators. Tell your guide before boarding so they can position you strategically in the raft.
What if my rafting tour is canceled due to the river level?+
Most operators offer a switch to a calmer river (like Micos) or a reschedule. Full refunds depend on how far in advance the descent is confirmed unviable.
Can I bring my GoPro rafting on the Tampaón?+
Yes, with a chest or helmet mount only. Holding it in your hand is prohibited — both hands must be free to paddle and hold the safety ropes.
How much does it cost to visit Tampaón River — Class III Rafting?+
Tampaón River — Class III Rafting is done on our Rafting on the Tampaón River tour: $1,850 MXN per person, the final price of the tour. You book and pay online by card: a 30% deposit holds your spot and the balance is settled on the day of the tour. Details at www.huasteca-potosina.com/en/tours/rafting-rio-tampaon.
How do I get to Tampaón River — Class III Rafting from Ciudad Valles?+
45 min from Ciudad Valles · Highway 70 → Ejido Tanchachín turnoff · Last 18 km passable dirt road. The destination is in Aquismón, San Luis Potosí, Mexico.
What time of year is best to visit Tampaón River — Class III Rafting?+
The best season to visit Tampaón River — Class III Rafting is Nov–Mar. The best time of day to arrive is 11:00–13:00 to make the most of the experience.
How much time do you need to tour Tampaón River — Class III Rafting?+
Plan about 7 hours to enjoy Tampaón River — Class III Rafting at a relaxed pace. The site is open 09:00–18:00 (Monday to Sunday (reservation required)).
What should you bring to visit Tampaón River — Class III Rafting?+
To visit Tampaón River — Class III Rafting we recommend bringing: cotton socks inside your water shoes (prevent blisters), a double change of dry clothes in the vehicle, 100% biodegradable sunscreen (required), GoPro with a chest or helmet mount only, your own medication. Important: Never paddle on your own in Jul–Aug — sudden surges of several meters in minutes. Guides CANNOT provide medication — bring your own. Cash only in Tanchachín.
Tours that include Tampaón River — Class III Rafting
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Reply in under 1 hour · Mon–Sun
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