The Wilderness holds answers to more questions than we have yet learned to ask.
Nancy Wynne Newhall
Trip Notes
We offer a few different rafting trips on the Franklin River — from 5 to 10 days. You can check them all out here:
The rest of this page gives you a feel for what the experience is like, no matter which trip you choose. If you’re keen for details (what to pack, how fit you need to be, where to meet), that’s all in the FAQ section.
What’s the experience like?
A trip down the Franklin isn’t just a rafting holiday — it’s a full wilderness immersion. Once you’re on the river, there’s no reception, no roads, and no turning back. You’ll paddle through ancient rainforest, drift beneath cliffs carved by time, and fall asleep to the sound of the water. It’s peaceful, wild, and absolutely unforgettable.
Is it really that remote?
Yes — and that’s what makes it so special. The Franklin River flows through the heart of the Tasmanian Wilderness World Heritage Area. There’s no phone signal, no towns, and no exit points along the way. Everything we need comes with us in the rafts. It’s a rare kind of escape.
Who Comes on These Trips?
You don’t need to be a seasoned adventurer. Our trips attract people from all walks of life — solo travellers, couples, friends, and families — with a shared love of nature and a curious spirit. You’ll need reasonable fitness but no rafting experience.
How hard is the paddling?
You don’t need any whitewater experience, just a reasonable level of fitness and a sense of adventure. Most days include a mix of paddling and portaging (carrying gear around rapids). You’ll work as part of a team and our guides will show you what to do. The river can be calm and glassy one moment, then bouncing through rapids the next — always changing, always rewarding.
What are the guides like?
Our guides are experienced river professionals — but they’re also great cooks, storytellers, naturalists, and safety experts. Many have been running trips down the Franklin for more than a decade and love nothing more than sharing it with others. You’ll feel supported, informed, and well-fed the whole way.
What’s the camping like?
We camp in stunning riverside spots — sometimes under overhangs, sometimes on river flats, always surrounded by nature. There’s no rush in the evenings: plenty of time to unwind, take a dip, explore nearby trails, or chat with your fellow rafters. We carry everything we need, from shelter to excellent food, and keep things comfortable but simple.
What about the weather?
Tasmania is known for being unpredictable — especially in the southwest. You can get sunshine, mist, rain, and wind all in the same day. We’ll provide a detailed packing list and talk you through what’s essential. With the right gear and attitude, the weather becomes part of the experience — not something to fear.
For more detailed and current weather information check the Bureau of Meteorology page. Queenstown in Tasmania is the closest town to the Franklin River.
Got questions?
If you’re not quite sure which trip is right for you, or just want to talk things through, give Brett a call (+61 408242941) — he’s always happy to chat about the river and help you plan your adventure.
Prefer to read? Our FAQ page has answers to just about everything.