River Bugging on the River Tummel

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.

📝 Key Details

• Duration: Up to 3 hours
• Group Size: Up to 12 participants
• Minimum Age: 12 years (16+ on weekends from June to September)
• Location: River Tummel, meeting at Linn of Tummel Car Park, Pitlochry

🌊 What to Expect

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.

📍 Location

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.

✅ Prerequisites

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.

🌿 Why Choose Us

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.