More radical that kayaking and rafting, this is an exciting sport that surged in the mid 1980s in France, and its concept is simply daring: hold tight to small board or aerodynamic plank (similar to a body-board) and challenge the rapids of the rivers, facing downward with the head up.

The adrenaline stirs up when one gets in contact with the water; it is a unique sense, explosive in the turns and agitated in the dreadful rapids. It is not easy to keep control and one needs to know certain techniques and be very careful in each movement. The Trancura River is one of the best settings for the practice of hydro-speed in Chile. Located at 35 kilometres from Pucon, the watercourse presents rapids classes III and IV; the descend takes an hour and a half approximately.

The volume of the river increases significantly during the summer (December to February), thus decreasing the chance of hitting submerged rocks, while at the same time increases the thrust of the currents; it is undoubtedly the best time of the year for hydro-speeding.

It is required to be in excellent physical conditions, have good reflects and intuition to practice this sport; although this activity is realised individually, it is recommendable to challenge the river as part of a group, led by a specialised guide who knows the zone.

Safety is of the utmost importance in hydro-speeding; the basic equipment includes an especial neoprene suit to protect oneself against hypothermia, a lifejacket, a safety helmet and flippers, which allow propelling with much strength, besides the board.

Sportspeople will find serious firms and specialised guides in Pucon; they will help you live an exciting and safe adventure in the waters of the Trancura River.