From Zurich: Private Aare River Rafting Day Trip to Bern

A Relaxing, Scenic Day on Switzerland’s Aare River: Our Take on the Private Rafting Trip from Zurich to Bern

If you’re after a mix of stunning scenery, laid-back fun, and a taste of local Swiss summer traditions, this Private Aare River Rafting Day Trip from Zurich might just tick all your boxes. We haven’t done this exact tour ourselves, but the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a great choice for anyone looking to combine easy adventure with beautiful views.

What really stands out are the carefree logistics—everything from gear to transfers is taken care of, so you can just relax and enjoy. Plus, the chance to float like a local, passing lush landscapes and charming villages, sounds perfect for a laid-back day. That said, it’s a full-day activity, so it’s best suited for those comfortable in water and who enjoy a relaxed pace. It could be a memorable outing for couples, families, or groups eager to experience Swiss summer in a totally stress-free way.

One thing to keep in mind is that this experience is not suitable for children under 6 years or non-swimmers**, so consider your travel companions accordingly. Still, if you’re looking for a unique, scenic float with a knowledgeable guide, this trip offers a combination of stunning views and genuine Swiss local flavor.

Key Points

• All-inclusive convenience: Transfers, gear, and setup are sorted for you.
• Scenic float: Pass lush landscapes, charming villages, and the Bernese Alps.
• Relaxed pace: Float, swim, and soak up the summer sun—no strenuous activity involved.
• Private group experience: Personalized guidance in your own group.
• Ideal for water lovers: Participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim.
• Perfect for a laid-back day: Suitable for couples, families (with children over 6), or friends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

What to Expect on the Aare River Rafting Trip

This tour offers a wonderfully simple yet immersive way to experience Switzerland’s natural beauty. From start to finish, it’s designed to be as smooth and enjoyable as possible, focusing on the scenic float and relaxed atmosphere.

Starting Point and Transfers

Your day begins in Zurich, where your guide greets you in the inner courtyard of the Green and White House, right next to Frida Mexican Products. From there, you hop into a comfortable van, which takes you on a scenic drive to Bern. The drive itself is a quiet, window-side experience, giving you a taste of the Swiss countryside—think rolling hills and quaint villages.

Once in Bern, you’ll hop on a scenic train ride to Thun, a charming alpine town that marks the starting point of your river journey. The entire transportation setup—including the van and train rides—is included, which really helps keep the day stress-free and straightforward.

The River Adventure Begins

At the riverbank in Thun, your guide will have already prepared everything—high-quality inflatable boats, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags. No need to fuss with setup; just step into the boat and get ready to go. This ease of entry is a huge plus—especially if you’re traveling with kids, or if you simply want to avoid the hassle of preparing gear yourself.

The inflatable boats are sturdy and designed for comfort, allowing you to float effortlessly down the crystal-clear Aare River. The current does most of the work, so you can sit back, paddle when needed, or simply relax and enjoy the ride.

The Scenic Highlights Along the Way

As you drift along, you’ll pass lush landscapes, with the Bernese Alps looming in the distance—views that make you feel like you’re in a postcard. The river flows past charming villages, small farms, and the lush greenery of Swiss summer.

A key part of the experience is the opportunity to swim alongside the boat—swimming is encouraged, so bring your swimsuit and towel. Many travelers find the water refreshing and perfect for cooling off when the sun is shining. The guide is friendly and attentive, creating a safe environment for swimming and relaxing.

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The End Point in Bern

Your float ends at the famous Marzili riverside area in Bern, a spot loved by locals and visitors alike. Here, you can dry off, take some photos of the city skyline, and soak in the relaxed Swiss summer vibe. Afterward, you’ll hop back into the van for the return trip to Zurich, feeling refreshed and with plenty of stories to tell.

What Makes This Tour Special

The main draw here is the combination of scenic beauty and laid-back fun. Floating down the Aare River from Thun to Bern is something many Swiss locals do during the summer months, so it’s a great way to experience a local tradition with a guided, safe, and comfortable setup.

The included all logistics—transfers, train rides, gear, and guidance—make this a hassle-free day out. You won’t need to worry about renting equipment or navigating public transportation, which is a big plus for travelers wanting a seamless experience.

The Guide and Group Size

The tour is private, meaning it’s tailored to your group—whether you’re a couple, family, or friends. The guide speaks multiple languages—English, Italian, Spanish, and German—so communication should be straightforward regardless of your background. Based on reviews, guides are praised for being knowledgeable, friendly, and welcoming, which adds a personal touch to the day.

The Value for Money

At $225 per person, this experience offers a full-day outing that’s both scenic and relaxing. Considering all included logistics—transfers, train rides, gear, and expert guidance—that’s a reasonable rate for a day spent in the Swiss countryside with stunning views. It’s especially good for travelers who prefer activities that combine nature, culture, and hassle-free logistics.

The Downsides and Considerations

While the tour is highly praised, it’s worth mentioning that it’s not suited for very young children (under 6) or non-swimmers. You should be comfortable in water and enjoy a gentle float—this isn’t an adrenaline-packed adventure. Also, keep in mind that it’s a full-day activity, so good footwear, sun protection, and water are essential.

If you’re looking for a high-adrenaline river experience or a more physically demanding activity, this might not be the right fit. But if you want a relaxing, scenic day floating down Switzerland’s iconic river with all logistics handled, this is a solid choice.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This trip is perfect for travelers wanting a gentle, scenic adventure that captures Swiss summer life. It’s ideal for couples seeking a romantic day, families with children who can swim and are over 6, or groups of friends looking for a relaxed day in nature. Those who love stunning views, good company, and a local experience will appreciate what this tour offers.

It’s also great for travelers who prefer not to worry about logistics—everything from transport to gear is included—so they can focus on enjoying the moment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
Children under 6 years old are not recommended. Participants should be comfortable in water and able to swim.

What is included in the price?
The price covers transportation from Zurich to Thun, back from Bern, train rides, high-quality inflatable boats, paddles, life jackets, and dry bags, plus full guidance.

Do I need to bring my own gear?
No, everything needed for the float—boats, gear, and safety equipment—is provided.

Can I swim during the trip?
Yes, swimming alongside the boat is encouraged, so bring a swimsuit and towel.

What should I bring?
Bring swimwear, a towel, snacks, sunscreen, water, and a waterproof camera.

Is the experience weather-dependent?
Yes, it’s a weather-dependent activity, so check the forecast and reschedule if needed—cancellations are free if you do so 24 hours in advance.

How long does the tour last?
It’s a full-day experience, approximately 7 hours, including transport, train rides, and the floating activity.

What language is the guide speaking?
Guides speak English, Italian, Spanish, and German.

Is this tour private?
Yes, it’s conducted with a private group, making it personalized and flexible.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, this private Aare River rafting trip offers a peaceful, scenic, and well-organized way to enjoy Swiss summer from the water. It’s best suited for those who want a relaxing day with stunning views, without the hassle of planning every detail. If you love nature, gentle adventure, and local traditions, this trip could become a highlight of your Swiss visit.

You can check availability for your dates here: