Nicky
My children (20 and 16) had a fantastic time. Thank you!
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Looking for a white water adventure that's completely different? River bugging puts you in your own one-person inflatable craft, allowing you to tackle the rapids from just above the water's surface. Originally developed in New Zealand and introduced to Scotland by the team here in 2003, it's an exciting way to experience the River Tummel.
Following your arrival at the Linn of Tummel meeting point, you'll meet your qualified guides before being fitted with a wetsuit, helmet, buoyancy aid and your individual river bug. After a comprehensive safety briefing, you'll learn the basic techniques for steering, balancing and controlling your craft before entering the river. Your instructors will demonstrate everything you need to know, ensuring you feel confident before tackling the white water.
Once on the River Tummel, you'll experience the rapids from a completely unique perspective, sitting low in your inflatable bug while using your fins and body position to steer through the moving water. Every wave, current and rapid feels close enough to touch, creating an exciting ride that's very different from rafting or kayaking. Throughout the trip, your guides remain nearby to offer advice, encouragement and safety support, allowing you to enjoy the river while building your confidence on the water.
Set in the beautiful surroundings of Highland Perthshire, the River Tummel near Pitlochry provides excellent conditions for river bugging during the operating season. Its combination of flowing water, exciting rapids and impressive scenery makes it one of Scotland's favourite locations for white water adventures.
Surrounded by forests, hills and well-known walking routes, the area offers plenty to enjoy before or after your activity. Pitlochry is also one of Perthshire's most popular outdoor destinations, making it an ideal base for a day of adventure.
No previous river bugging experience is required, and full instruction is provided before entering the water. Participants must be at least 12 years old, although the minimum age increases to 16 years on weekends between June and September.
For safety reasons, there is a maximum weight limit of 14 stone (90kg). Please bring swimwear to wear beneath your wetsuit, an old pair of trainers suitable for getting wet, a towel and warm clothing for after the activity.
Introducing river bugging to Scotland over two decades ago, the team has developed unrivalled experience delivering this unique white water activity. Qualified guides, professionally maintained equipment and one of the UK's largest fleets of river bugs ensure every session is both enjoyable and professionally managed.
Whether you're trying river bugging for the first time or looking for a fresh challenge after rafting or kayaking, you'll benefit from expert instruction and access to one of the country's best white water venues.
River bugging involves navigating through river rapids using a small inflatable craft resembling an armchair. It's an exciting outdoor activity that combines elements of whitewater rafting and kayaking.
Yes, river bugging is suitable for beginners with proper instruction and supervision. Our experienced guides provide comprehensive training on how to navigate the river safely, ensuring an exciting yet secure experience for participants of all skill levels.
We provide all necessary equipment, including wetsuits, helmets, life jackets, and river bugs.
Participants are advised to bring swimwear, old shoes for the water, and warm clothing depending on the season.
River bugging is generally considered more hands-on because you're responsible for controlling your own craft rather than paddling as part of a larger raft. Many people enjoy the extra freedom and direct interaction with the white water.
Although it's a more personal experience, qualified guides remain with the group throughout, providing instruction and safety support whenever required.
Yes. Participants must not exceed the maximum weight limit of 14 stone (90kg). The normal minimum age is 12 years, although this increases to 16 years on weekends between June and September.
These requirements help ensure everyone can safely control the river bug and enjoy the experience on the River Tummel.
My children (20 and 16) had a fantastic time. Thank you!
Absolutely awesome morning out. Klaudia was a great instructor, and it was great that it was on the river with some faster flowing water.. Only remark: It could have been a bit longer (it was more 2-hours then 3-hours), it was so much fun, we wouldn't have minded it was…
So much fun! We had a fabulous day and thoroughly recommend this - thank you x
Operated by Splash White Water Rafting, a partner of adventuro.
