FAQ's
Is Rafting Really SAFE?
Rafting is a relativly safe sport. You have a better chance of injury walking down the street in the city.
We have excellent guides well trained and certified in swift water rescue, first aid and basic life support..
What if I cannot swim? Can I still go rafting?
You do not need to know how to swim to go rafting with us.
You'll be wearing a top-of-the-line life jacket when you are on the water. Everyone on our trips wears a buoyancy vest. This will keep you afloat in the event that you find yourself in the river. We take many non-swimmers on trips, and they have a great time. It is more important that you are not afraid of the water. If you should happen to fall in the river, you will float like a cork (a little wet and exhilarated but safe). 90% of accidents happen on shore.
Is rafting dangerous?
Rafting is thrilling, exciting, wet, wild and unbelievably fun. However, as in all adventure sports, there is an inherent risk involved. That risk contributes to the excitement, and is one of the reasons people enjoy it so much. Our guides are trained to minimize risks, and, statistically, you're safer on a raft than in your car. One state government found in an investigation that the injury rate for whitewater rafting is similar to that for bowling! But still, there is a risk, and you must accept that risk when you go on the river. By the way, the most common injury is sunburn, and most other injuries occur on land, especially getting into and out of the boats.
Reservation Policy
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An email, text, call, or personal visit to Base Camp can serve as communication for rafting trip reservations.
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A non-refundable down payment of PhP500 per person is required to confirm reservation.
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Full payment for the entire reserved participants will be collected on the rafting date.
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Full payment will be collected if no cancellation is made at least a day before the schedule.
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Participants should be aware that river rafting is considered extreme and risk is part of the package. All participants will be required to fill-up and sign a waiver.
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Base Camp™ will not accept participants who are: pregnant; below 7 years old or who will not fit with the rafting life vest; with severe asthma; hypertensive; with heart problem; have undergone major surgery; not capable to follow simple instructions; with serious back and neck problems; drunk during the day of rafting; or with extremely contagious illness; having any conditions not fit for the activity.
What class of rapids is the Davao River? How are rapids rated for difficulty?
The Davao River River is rated Class 3+ (two class 4 rapids
Do I need to be physically fit? Is it strenuous?
You don't need to be physically fit to go rafting. Paddling a raft is a team effort that uses more technique than muscles. To do so, you should be reasonably healthy, and must be able to fit into our life vests. Paddling can be tiring, but our guides will instruct you on efficient paddling technique.
What should I wear?
Wear something you don't mind getting wet. In warm weather it's usually better to wear swimwear or nylon shorts and t-shirts. Your footwear should be river sandals or old tennis shoes. Hats, sunglasses (with straps), and sunscreen are other items to consider bringing.
What if it is raining?
Since you will be getting wet while you are on the river, we run our trip rain or shine.
How many people do you require to go on one trip?
We require a minimum of 5 rafters to run a trip. Four people are needed to be able to send a raft out on a trip.
How old do I need to be?
Our minimum age limit is 7 years, and hopefully they are not afraid of water, can follow instructions, and will fit into our lifejackets.
What meals are provided? What's for lunch?
Our typical 750 ml packed lunch consist of rice, boiled egg, 2 viands. We don’t serve crabs and shrimps. We arrange a special lunch pack for those who have food allergies and/or restrictions. Bottled waters will also be provided.
Can I bring my camera or video camera?
No need to bring your camera. We will document your trip and give your group a CD copy of the pictures and video clips of your trip.
Should I tip my guide?
Tipping is not expected, but is certainly appreciated. If you feel your guide has done a good job, keeping you entertained, and sharing the wonderful river environment with you, then feel free to show your appreciation.
I am a senior citizen. Would you recommend for me?
For fit, active seniors over 65 we recommend rafting.
What are my chances of falling out of the boat? What should I do if I do?
Believe it or not, many people love falling out of the boat. It's exciting. But it can be disorienting and a little overwhelming at first. Many people have taken multiple trips and never fallen in. Some people swim on their first trip. It's a part of rafting. Before you go on any trip, you'll be given extensive instructions on what to do if you fall in, and how to stay safe. Follow you're guide's instructions, and your "swim" could be the most exciting part of your trip!
It looks like rain. Will the trip still go?
All of our trips go, rain or shine. Occasionally, due to circumstances beyond our control, such as very high or very low water, etc, we must cancel or postpone a trip.