Water-Based Activities For All Near Fort William and Fort Augustus
The Fort William area is famous for its mountains and scenery — but its rivers are some of the most thrilling in the UK. Here’s how to get out on the water this season.
From April through to October, Active Highs runs a fantastic range of water-based adventures near Fort William and Fort Augustus — suitable for everyone from first-timers and families to groups looking for a proper adrenaline fix. Active Highs is part of the In Your Element group of outdoor adventure companies operating across the Scottish Highlands, so you’re in experienced hands from the moment you book.
White water rafting — the Highland classic
If you’ve never hurtled down a Grade 3–4 river in an inflatable raft, you’re missing out on one of Scotland’s great thrills. Active Highs runs white water rafting trips on the River Garry, which benefits from guaranteed weekly water releases from a dam upstream — meaning you’re always in for a proper ride, whatever the weather has been doing. Qualified guides lead every trip, all equipment is included, and no experience is needed. It’s one of the most reliably exciting activity days in the Highlands, full stop.
White water funyaking — paddling with a twist
A funyak is best described as a cross between a kayak and an inflatable raft — stable enough for beginners, but low enough to the water that you feel every ripple and rapid. It’s a brilliant option if you want the excitement of white water but prefer to paddle yourself rather than follow a guide’s commands. Great for competitive groups who want to race each other downstream.
River tubing — the family favourite
Looking for something the whole group can enjoy, from the kids to the grandparents? River tubing might be your answer. You’re in a large inflatable ring, letting the river do the work — drifting, spinning and bumping your way downstream with absolutely nothing to worry about except who’s screaming loudest. It’s joyful, simple, and genuinely hard not to love.
Canyoning — for those who want more
Canyoning takes the adventure off the river and into the gorge. You’ll scramble, slide, jump and abseil your way through dramatic Highland ravines, with water thundering around you. It’s a proper multi-discipline challenge — part climbing, part swimming, part leaping into pools you’d never normally go near. Ideal for groups who want something a bit wilder and are happy to get thoroughly soaked in the process.
River rafting safari — scenery and serenity
Not every visitor to the Highlands wants to throw themselves into white water — and that’s absolutely fine. The river rafting safari is a more relaxed, scenic journey along the river, taking in the stunning landscape of the Great Glen from the water. Guided by an expert who knows every twist and story of the river, it’s a wonderful way to experience the Highlands from a completely different perspective. Perfect for those who want the experience without the adrenaline.
Good to know
- Scheduled activities run from around April to October, but some of these activities may be available at other times for private group bookings
- Suitable for a wide range of ages and abilities — from families to stag and hen groups
- All equipment and qualified guides are included
- No prior experience needed for most activities
- Based near Fort William and Fort Augustus, in the heart of the Great Glen
Part of something bigger
Active Highs sits within the In Your Element family — a Highland-based group of outdoor adventure companies with locations across Inverness, Aviemore, Fort Augustus, Loch Tay and Loch Lomond. If you’re exploring more of Scotland during your trip, there’s a whole world of activities on offer beyond the river: gorge walking, canoeing on Loch Ness, TreeZone treetop adventures, archery, axe throwing, Highland Games, bike hire and more. One group, countless adventures.
How to book
All of these experiences can be viewed and booked online at activehighs.co.uk. Whether you’re planning ahead or looking for something to do during your stay, the team at Active Highs will look after you from start to finish.
The Scottish Highlands offer some of the most spectacular scenery on earth — and there’s no better way to experience it than from the middle of a fast-flowing river. Don’t just look at it from the shore.
activehighs.co.uk · 0333 600 6008