Durango, Colorado, is a fantastic destination for outdoor lovers and adventure seekers alike. Its location along the Animas River, surrounded by rugged mountains and scenic landscapes, makes it ideal for a variety of water-based tours. We’re particularly fond of the Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch because it combines adrenaline with comfort, giving you a full day on the river with stunning views and a delicious meal. Meanwhile, the 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip offers a more relaxed, yet equally exciting way to experience Durango’s waters. Whether you prefer rapid thrills or a more laid-back paddle, Durango’s water adventures promise memorable experiences.
If you’re planning a 4-day itinerary, including these tours can add a splash of adventure and a taste of Durango’s natural beauty. Not only do they showcase the region’s premier outdoor activities, but they also cater to different schedules and skill levels. To help you choose the right experience, here’s a detailed look at each of the top 4-day tours in Durango.
1. Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch – Lower Animas River
For around $162 per person, the Durango 3/4 Day Rafting Trip with Lunch offers a full day of excitement on the Lower Animas River. This 6-hour trip is perfect for anyone wanting a comprehensive river adventure, running the entire stretch through Durango and splashing through class II-III rapids. The guides are Class III certified, with extensive training that exceeds state requirements, ensuring your safety and fun.
The trip uses custom self-bailing rafts with foot cups, making it easier to stay in the boat and enjoy the ride. The mix of rapid action and peaceful moments makes it appealing for all experience levels. On the way, you’ll stop for a delicious lunch, a thoughtful touch that makes this trip feel complete. Reviewers give this tour a perfect 5/5, praising the guides’ professionalism and the scenic beauty.
What makes this trip stand out is its blend of thrill and comfort, making it suitable for families, groups, or solo travelers wanting a memorable day on the water. The only potential downside is the price, but considering the full-day experience, the value is solid.
Bottom Line: This tour is best for those who want a full-day, guided rafting experience with excellent safety standards and an included lunch. It’s ideal if you want to combine adventure with good food.
2. Durango 1/4 Day Rafting Trip – Lower Animas River
For just $75 per person, the Durango 1/4 Day Rafting Trip offers a quick, 135-minute thrill through the same river section. Perfect for travelers with limited time, this shorter trip still tackles class II-III rapids in a more condensed format. It’s a great way to get a taste of rafting without committing to a full day.
Guides are Class III certified, ensuring safety and fun, especially for first-timers or those with tight schedules. The trip uses self-bailing rafts with foot cups, which adds to the comfort and safety. You’ll experience the same adrenaline rush with rapid action, but in a shorter window, making it an ideal add-on or a standalone adventure for a quick burst of excitement.
This tour has excellent reviews—rated 4.8/5—and is praised for its friendly guides and scenic views. It pairs well with other Durango activities, such as exploring the town or visiting local attractions. The main advantage is affordability and time efficiency; however, if you’re craving a full-day experience, this may feel brief.
Bottom Line: This is the best choice if you want a quick, fun rafting trip that fits into a busy schedule or as a warm-up before other sightseeing.
3. Durango: 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip – Lower Animas River
At $108 per person, the Durango: 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip provides a 2.5-hour paddle on Durango’s Lower Animas River. No prior experience is needed, which makes this an attractive option for beginners or families looking for a relaxed water adventure. The tour includes gear, instruction, and lunch, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable outing.
This trip takes you to Smelter White Water Park, where you’ll encounter Class III splashes and some of the most scenic stretches of the river. The guides are knowledgeable and attentive, providing tips on paddling and safety. The mix of mild rapids and calmer sections offers a balanced experience that captures the river’s natural beauty and thrill.
Reviewers note this trip offers “a different and more beautiful view of Durango,” and many mention how accessible it is for novices. It’s a perfect choice if you want to dip your toes into kayaking without a full-day commitment. The main limitation is the shorter duration, which might leave some paddlers wanting more if they’re particularly enthusiastic.
Bottom Line: Ideal for beginners, families, or those curious about kayaking, this tour balances fun rapids with beautiful scenery in a manageable timeframe.
$108 per person
4. Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip – Lower Animas River
Costing $206 per person, the Durango 3/4 Day Kayaking Trip offers a full 6-hour paddle on Durango’s Lower Animas. Like the shorter version, it features Class II rapids and one Class III, but with more time to enjoy the scenery, practice your paddling skills, and explore different parts of the river.
This tour provides expert guides and all gear, plus a lunch to keep you energized. It’s perfect for those who want a comprehensive kayaking experience without the commitment of a multi-day trip. Many reviews highlight the opportunity to see “a different and more beautiful view of Durango,” especially during the calmer sections, which allow for reflection and photography.
The longer duration makes this a better value for serious paddlers or those eager to spend the entire day on the water. The main consideration is the price—some travelers might prefer the shorter trip if they’re not looking to dedicate a whole afternoon. Those with kayaking experience will appreciate the additional time to refine their skills.
Bottom Line: This tour is recommended for paddlers looking for a full-day, immersive kayaking experience with plenty of time to enjoy Durango’s scenic river sections.
$206 per person
How to Choose Your Durango Water Adventure
When selecting among these tours, consider your budget, available time, and experience level. If you’re short on time but crave adventure, the 1/4 Day Rafting Trip or the 1/4 Day Kayaking Trip are perfect options. For those wanting a more comprehensive experience, the full-day rafting or kayaking tours provide more time on the water and a chance to see different river sections, especially if you’re comfortable with paddling.
Consider your fitness level and comfort with water activities. The rafting trips have a slightly higher thrill factor, with rapid sections that can be challenging for some. Kayaking offers a more controlled setting that may better suit beginners or families. Also, think about whether you want just adrenaline or a mix of adventure and sightseeing—the longer tours offer both.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons (late spring through early fall), to secure your preferred date and ensure availability.
Final Thoughts
Durango offers a range of water-based tours that cater to different preferences and schedules. For a full immersion, the full-day rafting or kayaking trips are excellent choices. If time is tight, the shorter rafting or kayaking options still deliver plenty of fun and memorable scenery.
Whether you’re after a quick thrill or a leisurely paddle, Durango’s rivers won’t disappoint. Book your tour early, prepare for some splashes, and get ready for a memorable outdoor adventure in Colorado’s scenic southwest.