Pick your section
How to read the result
River grade
We use the international Class I–V scale. Class I is gentle; Class III has clear rapids; Class IV+ requires helmets. Most Chinese rafting uses a softer "A–E" scale; we translate roughly.
Season window
Most sections run May–October. Low-water months (Nov–Apr) have less rapids but colder water. Malinghe closes entirely in winter.
Age cutoffs
Children under 8 are refused at most operators. Teens OK on any Class I–III with parental consent. 65+ accepted only on gentle Class I–II with medical clearance on the day.
What this tool can't tell you
- The water level on the day — high water can push Class II into Class III.
- Your group's swimming ability — required for any Class III section.
- Operator safety record. Stick to the major ones; avoid unmarked outfits.
- Weather — rafting cancels in lightning or flash flood warnings.
Common questions
Can I bring my phone?
Only in a waterproof pouch. Operators sell them at the gate but the quality varies. Bring your own if you have one.
Is it safe for non-swimmers?
Only on Class I sections with mandatory life jackets. Malinghe is not for non-swimmers. Shamuhe and Gaoguohe have shallow sections where non-swimmers can manage.
What if my group is mixed?
Pick Shamuhe (Zunyi) — has Class I and II sections running parallel; less-fit members take the gentle route.
Sources & reference data
River grades from Guizhou Outdoor Sports Association 2024; age cutoffs verified with operators at Malinghe, Shamuhe, Gaoguohe in 2025.
Advertisement slot — natural placement, below tool output, not adjacent to any button.