Wild Rivers & Hidden Heritage – Rafting & Safari Expedition – 18 Days

18 days
5.0 (15 verified reviews)
Rafting & Expédition Rivière
Wild Karnali River

Embark on an extraordinary journey through Nepal blending ancient cultural heritage, untouched nature, and adrenaline-pumping wild river rafting. From Kathmandu's royal palaces to the roaring gorges of the Bheri and pristine safaris in Bardia.

Trip Highlights

  • Multi-day self-sufficient wild river rafting with sandbank riverside bivouacs
  • Walking and jeep safaris in the remote heart of Bardia National Park
  • Exploration of UNESCO World Heritage medieval cities in Kathmandu Valley
  • Total immersion in Nepal's untamed western wilderness and Magar villages

Is this trip right for you?

Wildlife & Tracking
Nature & Adventure
Culture & Local Life
Relaxation & Scenery
Evenings & Social
Pace & Effort: Challenging

Detailed Itinerary (18 days)

Day-by-day itinerary led by our native master trackers and certified expedition guides.

Day 1

Day 1 – Arrival in Kathmandu

Welcome at Tribhuvan International Airport by our team. Private transfer to your hotel. Rest, leisure time in Thamel, and evening expedition briefing.
Day 2

Day 2 – Exploration of Kathmandu Valley

Discover the rich cultural heritage of Kathmandu: Swayambhunath stupa, Pashupatinath, and historic Newar streets.
Day 3

Day 3 – Drive to Pokhara

Scenic road journey along the Trishuli and Marsyangdi rivers to the peaceful lakeside city of Pokhara beneath the Annapurnas.
Day 4

Day 4 – Exploration of Pokhara

Sunrise view from Sarangkot over the Annapurna range, boat ride on Phewa Lake, and visit to Devi's Falls and Tibetan settlements.
Day 5

Day 5 – Drive to Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve

Off-road 4x4 expedition into Dhorpatan Hunting Reserve, Nepal's only hunting reserve, famous for blue sheep (bharal) and alpine meadows.
Day 6

Day 6 – Exploration of Dhorpatan Wilderness

Hike across high-altitude plateaus and pine forests observing wildlife and traditional pastoral communities.
Day 7

Day 7 – Journey to Taksera (Magar Heritage Village)

Drive through dramatic mountain terrain to Taksera, an ancient Magar village with distinct stone architecture and shamanic traditions.
Day 8

Day 8 – Drive to Maikot (Hidden Mountain Gem)

Cross rugged valleys to Maikot, a remote hamlet untouched by modern tourism, surrounded by steep pine-covered peaks.
Day 9

Day 9 – Drive to Rukumkot & Lotus Lake

Journey to picturesque Rukumkot, known as the place of 52 lakes and 53 hills, visiting Kamal Pokhari (Lotus Lake).
Day 10

Day 10 – Drive to Surkhet Valley

Descend from the mountains into the broad subtropical valley of Surkhet, gateway to the Karnali and Bheri rivers.
Day 11

Day 11 – Launch of the Bheri River Rafting Expedition

Meet our expert river guides, complete safety training, and launch rafts onto the crystal-clear waters of the Bheri River. Camp on a pristine white sandbank.
Day 12

Day 12 – Thrilling River Rapids & Wilderness Camping

Full day of exhilarating Class III-IV white-water rafting through secluded canyons inaccessible by road. Second night in riverside bush camp under the stars.
Day 13

Day 13 – Final River Rapids & Transfer to Bardia

Complete the river descent to the confluence with the Karnali River. Pack up rafts and private transfer to our jungle eco-lodge in Bardia.
Day 14

Day 14 – Full-Day 4x4 Jeep Safari in Bardia

Enter Bardia National Park for a full day of open-top jeep tracking targeting Royal Bengal tigers, Asian rhinos, and wild elephant herds.
Day 15

Day 15 – Second Safari & Walking Track in Bardia

Intensive tracking on foot with our native Tharu master trackers along prime tiger corridors and river crossing points.
Day 16

Day 16 – Final Safari & Tharu Cultural Performance

Morning safari followed by an evening celebration with local Tharu dances and traditional festive meal.
Day 17

Day 17 – Domestic Flight to Kathmandu

Private transfer to Nepalgunj Airport and flight back to Kathmandu. Free evening in Thamel for shopping and farewell dinner.
Day 18

Day 18 – International Departure

Private airport transfer for your departure flight with unforgettable Himalayan memories.

What is included in your expedition

Included in the rate

  • All accommodations (selected boutique eco-lodges & traditional heritage hotels)
  • Full-board in the jungle (3 healthy and locally prepared meals daily)
  • Domestic flights & private ground transfers specified in the itinerary
  • Official National Park conservation permits & entry fees
  • Mentoring by certified native master trackers (Pawan / Kiran)
  • Dedicated 24/7 personalized assistance from Robin & local concierge

Not included

  • International flights (Home country – Kathmandu)
  • Nepalese tourist visa fees (approx. $30 to $50 on arrival)
  • Alcoholic beverages and personal expenses
  • Mandatory personal travel & medical evacuation insurance
  • Discretionary tips for local trackers, camp staff, and drivers
Exclusive Add-on +350 € / person

Wild Bush Camping Night Add-on in Bardia National Park

Experience an unforgettable night at a temporary bush camp deep in tiger territory with our master trackers Pawan & Kiran. Complete gear provided, hot campfire dinner, and an evening listening to the pure sounds of the jungle.

Verified Explorer Reviews

100% authentic verified explorer feedback on Google Reviews.

★ 5.0 Google Reviews
AN

Adrien Noat

Verified Explorer • Safari Bardia & Babai

★★★★★

“An unforgettable experience with Pawan and Robin. Observing a wild Bengal tiger on foot in complete safety remains the greatest travel moment of my life. Everything was perfectly orchestrated.”

JT

Jean Tramoy

Verified Explorer • Expédition Bivouac

★★★★★

“The bivouac nights in the heart of Babai Valley are pure magic. The trackers' naturalist expertise is astounding. An authentic, deeply respectful journey into raw nature.”

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I book an expedition?

Once you select your expedition, our team will send your booking confirmation by email.

To confirm your reservation, a 30% deposit is required upon registration.

The remaining balance is payable upon arrival in Kathmandu.

Can I customize my trip?

Absolutely! Our local team crafts bespoke private itineraries tailored to your dates, preferences, and pace. Simply let us know what you envision.

Are there group discounts available?

Yes, we offer special rates for small private groups and families. Contact us for custom pricing.

Do I need travel insurance?

Yes, you must hold personal travel insurance covering safari activities, remote wilderness, and medical evacuation.

What is included in the expedition price?

Our expeditions include boutique eco-lodge accommodations, all meals in the field, private transport, certified master trackers, and all official national park permits.

How many travelers per group?

Our expeditions are strictly limited to 4 to 10 travelers to preserve the silence required for wildlife tracking and guarantee safety.

What is the physical difficulty level?

This trip is rated Challenging. Our master trackers adapt the walking pace to ensure everyone enjoys the expedition safely and comfortably.

Aventure & Eaux Vives

Wild Rivers & Hidden Heritage – Rafting & Safari Expedition – 18 Days

18 days • Small Group (4 to 10 explorers)

Starting from

2190€ / personne
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Only 30% deposit at registration
Annulation flexible jusqu'à 45 days
Paiement sécurisé & guides 100% natifs
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