In a whirl of mad adrenaline: rafting on the Cheremosh
The Black Cheremosh - is one of the most beautiful waterways of the Carpathian mountains. The river rises in the picturesque Chyvchyn Mountains, on the border of Ukraine and Romania, and carries its waters through the Eastern Carpathians in the Ivano-Frankivsk region. Its total length is - almost 90 km, the basin area is - over 850 sq. km, the current speed is - from 8 to 20 km/h. At first the Cheremosh’s channel is winding, sometimes zigzagging, with numerous rapids, and further down towards the village it widens considerably, slows down, as does the speed of the current itself.
Importantly, the Cheremosh is convenient for rafting and has interesting rapids. The best period for rafting here is - spring, especially the May holidays, when the snow melts in the mountains and the rivers become full. However, in recent years a rainy summer has helped extend the season well, so you can go rafting until mid-autumn.
Every year in April-May the river gathers all the country’s rafters for an outstanding mass event - the battle with the water element for the Cheremosh Cup.
Rafting on the Cheremosh: how it all happens
The Black Cheremosh has water courses of several difficulty levels. Those wishing to try rafting do not need any special training, since the highest difficulty level of this river is - the third. Six people and one instructor can raft on a single raft. The «process» itself lasts at least 2-3 hours - it all depends on the water level and how actively the participants paddle. Rafting is entirely safe for life - the Cheremosh has a few deep spots (2-3 metres), yet even there the water is usually calm.
The most popular water route, which even beginners can conquer, starts in the village of Dzembronia. First, all 
The highlight of rafting on the Cheremosh - is the so-called body rafting. This is rafting on your back over obstacles, which takes place on the last rapid, literally 300 metres from the main camp. It is not compulsory: body rafting is possible only if the participants themselves wish it and after an additional briefing. And once the rafting is over, which really does whet the appetite, a traditional dinner awaits you: delicious dishes of distinctive Transcarpathian cuisine.
During the rafting you will gain plenty of new knowledge and skills. You will learn to handle a paddle, to overcome difficult water obstacles, and perhaps you will discover new qualities in yourself, unexpected endurance and willpower.
Rafting on the Cheremosh: the rules of safe and comfortable rafting
Your kit should be such that you lose nothing during the rafting. For example, if you bring glasses, hang them on a cord or string around your neck. You can take a thermos of hot tea and a snack with you. It is not recommended to take phones, photo and video equipment on the rafting - you might «drown» or damage them. All your gadgets and other necessary belongings can be left with the driver in the car.
- trainers or trekking sandals (never take flip-flops!);
- comfortable light clothing, preferably synthetic - it dries faster;
- a hat: a panama, a Buff;
- a water-repellent jacket;
- a dry towel and a dry set of clothes;
- identity documents (in waterproof bags or left with the driver);
- great spirits and optimism!
It is worth adding that there are certain restrictions on rafting dictated by your state of health. It is not recommended to take part in the rafting if you have hypertension, heart problems or if you are forbidden to stay in the sun for long. Follow the safety rules on the water and take the briefing seriously.
Clean mountain air, stunning steep slopes, dense forests and the turbulent, seething waters of a mountain river - rafting will give you a truly exciting adventure, an incredible rush of adrenaline and pride in your victory over the water element and over yourself.
You can experience the astonishing and unforgettable rafting on the Cheremosh for yourself by taking part in our special offer.
