Frequently Asked Questions
Q. What if I can’t swim?
Everyone must wear a personal flotation device or life preserver while on the boat, and swimming skills are not needed.
Q. Are there bugs, mosquitoes and other creatures?
There are very few bugs or mosquitoes but they are rarely a problem. In any event it is a good idea to bring bug repellant. Further, there are also snakes and scorpions but they are rarely seen.
Q. Is motion sickness a problem?
The motion of the boats in the rapids is fun and lasts for only a few minutes.You are extremely unlikely to experience motion sickness on the boats.
Q. Do we have contact with the outside world?
The boats are equipped with satellite phones for use in emergencies only. Normal cellular phones do not work in the Grand Canyon.
Q. Do I need rain gear?
Yes, even in summer time there are occasional thunderstorms. Rain gear (like a waterproof poncho or light nylon wind breaker) can also be used in the heavy rapids.
Q. What type of clothing should I bring?
Your basic shirts and shorts should be either synthetic or light weight cotton. The reason for this is that they must be able to dry quickly after the rapids. You also need clothing for sun protection and light tennis shoes or water sandals (not flip-flops) to be able to hike in comfortably.
Q. Can I bring a camera or CD player?
Yes, you certainly should bring a camera. Please keep in mind that all personal effects and cameras etc. are at risk from water and sand, and consequently, must be protected in sealable waterproof bags or baggies.
Q. How strenuous is a river trip?
The actual trip though extremely exciting is not physically strenuous. While on the boats, everyone is seated comfortably. Though we stop three or four times each day for short hikes and explorations, the activities are not strenuous and are voluntary. If someone has a problem the guides wlll always be present and will lend a hand.
Q. What kind of toilet facilities will we use on the river?
The ecology of the Grand Canyon is delicate and moreover regulated by the National Park Service. Only approved portable toilets are allowed, and these will be provided and serviced by our raft guides.
Q. What is the length of the river trip?
Normal river trips for the entire Grand Canyon are seven or eight days long. There are alternative trips for the Upper GC from Lees Ferry to Phantom Ranch or for the lower Grand Canyon from Phantom Ranch to the end. In either case the person must hike or mule in or out at Phantom Ranch. Coyote Adventures offers only full length Grand Canyon trips.
Q. We'd like to bring our children. Is there a minimum age?
The minimum age for the river trip is eight years old, but this is a guideline and is dependent on the maturity of the child and his/her size.
Q. How about camping? I've never slept outdoors.
The river company supplies tents, mattress pads, sleeping bags (optional for additional cost) and ground cloths. The guides do all the cooking, and bathing occurs in the majestic Colorado River. The camps are made as comfortable as possible, and even first-time campers are comfortable.
Q. I'm on a special diet. Will it be possible to stay on it while on the river?
Yes, but you must put in a request for your special diet well before your trip launch date, and an additional cost may be applicable.
Q. What about emergencies?
In the event of an emergency the boats are equipped with a satellite phone. This can be used to contact the National Park Service, and they can send in a evacuation helicopter. Further, the boats are equipped with an extensive first aid kit and all guides are trained in CPR and have a Wilderness First Response (advanced first aid) certification.
Q. Is there fishing on your river trips?
Fish are rather abundant in the Canyon, but anyone interested must first obtain a fishing license from the National Park Service. It is probably not practical from a time standpoint to do this.
