Adrenaline kayaking on the Lima and Serchio rivers in Bagni di Lucca

Imagine paddling through crystal-clear waters, navigating exciting rapids, and passing beneath ancient stone arches—all just a short hop from Tuscany’s famed spa town of Bagni di Lucca. That’s exactly what this adrenaline kayaking tour offers. With a focus on packrafting descent and inflatable kayaks, this experience combines the thrill of wild rivers with stunning natural scenery, making it a perfect adventure for those craving a dose of excitement in Italy’s beautiful countryside.

What we really like about this experience is its accessibility—thanks to innovative boats designed for beginners, even those new to river sports can tackle class II and III rapids with confidence. Plus, the chance to pass under the Ponte del Diavolo, an iconic and mysterious stone bridge, adds a dash of history and charm to the adrenaline rush. That said, it’s worth noting that this tour is designed for those over 16 and under 100kg, so it might not suit everyone looking for a family activity or for larger adventurers.

This tour is ideal for adventure lovers who enjoy scenic views and are comfortable with moderate physical activity. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers who want a thrilling, active day outside of the usual cultural excursions in Tuscany. If you’re after an authentic, high-energy experience with a touch of local charm, this could be just what you’re seeking.

Key Points

• Exciting river adventure: The tour offers a mix of packrafting and inflatable kayaking on two different rivers, giving a varied experience depending on the season.
• Accessible for beginners: Innovative boats enable those new to river sports to enjoy rapid crossings safely.
• Stunning scenery: Expect clear waters, wild valleys, rocky gorges, and the chance to pass under historic bridges, enhanced by beautiful Tuscan surroundings.
• Instructors and safety: Guided by knowledgeable staff like Pietro, who are fluent in English and ready to explain every step.
• Limited age and weight restrictions: Suitable for those 16 and older, under 100kg, making it accessible to most adventurous travelers.
• Value for price: At around $75 per person for approximately 3 hours of action-packed fun, it’s a strong investment in memorable experiences.

The Itinerary and What It Entails

Starting at the Firenze Rafting location in Bagni di Lucca, the tour kicks off with a brief safety briefing and equipment fitting. You’re provided with a neoprene wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, neoprene boots, and a paddle—all tailored to ensure comfort and safety during the trip. One of the standout features of this experience is the use of special inflatable boats, which are designed to make tackling wild rapids accessible even for beginners. These boats are sturdy, easy to maneuver, and engineered to pass through turbulent waters with confidence.

The adventure begins with a packrafting descent on the sparkling Lima torrent during spring and autumn. Packrafting is a unique, lightweight form of kayaking where you’ll literally be able to carry your boat on your back, making the journey even more flexible and fun. In summer, the tour shifts to the Serchio River, which offers similar thrills with perhaps a slightly different scenic backdrop.

What Makes the Rivers Special?

Travelers can expect very clear water, which is a delight for those who enjoy picturesque natural settings. As you paddle through narrow rocky gorges and wild valleys, you’ll experience a series of fantastic rapids that deliver both a buzz of adrenaline and awe-inspiring views. The rapids are classified as II and III, making them suitable for beginners with a bit of guidance. One reviewer, Oliver B., highlighted the experience’s “adrenalin, fun, and great views,” mentioning that the guide Pietro “explained everything well and made us feel safe even as beginners.”

Another unique aspect is the opportunity to pass beneath the Ponte del Diavolo, a historic stone bridge shrouded in local legend. Traversing beneath such an iconic structure adds a layer of mystique and historical charm that complements the natural beauty.

The Guides and Safety

Pietro, the guide mentioned in reviews, is praised for being very friendly and helpful, especially for those new to kayaking. His fluent English allows for easy communication, and he’s attentive to safety and instruction. Given the rapid pace of the river, having a knowledgeable guide is crucial, and based on the reviews, the staff seems well-versed in ensuring a fun yet secure experience.

The equipment — neoprene wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets — are included in the price, which provides peace of mind. You’ll only need to bring a bathing suit, thermal shirt, shoes that can get wet, and a towel. The included gear appears to be well-maintained and appropriate for the activity, contributing to a smooth experience.

Group Size, Duration, and Practical Considerations

This tour accommodates up to 10 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience while maintaining a lively group atmosphere. The activity lasts approximately 3 hours, from start to finish, making it a substantial half-day adventure without being overly taxing.

Travelers should note that minimum booking is for 2 people, and it’s recommended to book around 39 days in advance due to its popularity. The tour is also not suitable for children under 16 or for those exceeding 100kg, which is important if you’re traveling with teens or larger individuals.

Pricing and Value

At about $75.24 per person, the experience offers a lot of value. It includes all necessary equipment and professional guidance, and the duration allows for a substantial adrenaline rush without feeling rushed. For those seeking a thrilling activity that combines nature and history, this price point is reasonable, especially considering the uniqueness of paddling in Tuscany’s wild river gorges.

This tour is perfect for adventure enthusiasts looking to add some excitement to their Tuscany trip. It’s particularly suitable for beginners or those with moderate physical fitness, thanks to the design of the boats and the guidance provided. Nature lovers will appreciate the stunning scenery, while history buffs might find passing under the Ponte del Diavolo especially memorable.

However, it’s not for travelers with significant weight or age restrictions or those seeking a family-friendly activity. It’s best suited for those comfortable with water sports and moderate physical exertion who want a day packed with adrenaline and scenic beauty.

This kayaking tour on the Lima and Serchio rivers offers a unique combination of adventure, scenic views, and cultural highlights. The use of safe, innovative boats enables beginners to enjoy rapid crossings that were once reserved for seasoned paddlers — all set against the backdrop of Tuscany’s rugged valleys and historic bridges. The guides, like Pietro, make safety and fun a priority, and the small group sizes ensure a personalized experience.

For those craving a high-energy outdoor activity that balances excitement with stunning natural surroundings, this tour stands out as a prime choice. It’s especially appealing to travelers who want to experience Tuscany’s wild side without straying far from the comforts of Bagni di Lucca. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or simply eager to try something different, this river adventure promises a memorable, adrenaline-filled day.

Is this kayaking activity suitable for beginners? Yes, thanks to the innovative inflatable boats and guided instruction, even first-timers can handle the class II and III rapids comfortably.

What should I wear for the tour? You should bring a bathing suit, thermal shirt, shoes that can get wet, and a towel. The tour provides neoprene wetsuits, helmets, and life jackets.

How long does the activity last? The entire experience lasts around 3 hours, which includes safety briefing, gear, and the kayaking itself.

Are there any restrictions for participants? Yes, the tour is not suitable for children under 16, or for individuals over 100kg in weight.

What is included in the price? The price covers neoprene wetsuit, helmet, life jacket, neoprene boots, and paddle.

Where does the tour start and end? It begins at Firenze Rafting in Bagni di Lucca and finishes back at the same location.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled tour.

Is transportation provided? No, but the meeting point is near public transportation, making it easy to reach.

How many people are in each group? The tour accommodates a maximum of 10 travelers, allowing for a more intimate experience.

What is the best season for this activity? The Lima torrent is best in spring and autumn, while the Serchio River is ideal in summer, aligning with seasonal water levels and weather.

This river kayaking adventure in Tuscany offers a perfect mix of adrenaline, scenic beauty, and cultural charm. Whether you’re after a thrilling outdoor experience or a unique way to explore the region’s natural landscapes, it’s a compelling choice that delivers both excitement and authentic Italian scenery.