River Bugs

What Is a River Bug?

A river bug is a small, lightweight, one-person inflatable craft used on whitewater rivers. It looks like a small armchair: you sit inside it, facing downstream, with your legs out in front.

River bugs are made of tough, coated fabric similar to that used for rafts, and each one carries only a single person.

How a River Bug Works

River bugs are used to float downstream and play in rapids. They handle fast currents and rocks in shallow water well, which makes them popular with people looking for fun and adventure on rivers.

Instead of a paddle, the rider steers with webbed gloves on the hands and fins on the feet. This close contact with the water makes the ride especially exciting.

How River Bugs Are Made

River bugs are produced by specialist manufacturers using durable PVC or rubber-coated fabric. The craft has several separate air chambers, so it stays afloat even if one chamber is damaged.

A raised backrest supports the rider, and handles and straps help keep the rider in place. Bright colours make the craft easy to see on the water.

Safety Equipment

Riders always wear a helmet, a life jacket and usually a wetsuit. River bugging should only be tried with a trained guide, as the rider is very close to rocks and waves.

Where River Bugs Are Used

River bugs are used on rivers, streams and moderately rough water. They often appear in adventure centres, river trips and water sports events.

Well-known places for river bugging include New Zealand, where the sport began, the Zambezi River near Victoria Falls and rivers in the European Alps.

River Bug or Rafting?

River bugging is more personal and physical than rafting, since you steer alone. For a first river adventure, a guided rafting trip in Köprülü Canyon near Antalya is an easier and family-friendly choice.