The Rio Paraitinga flows through the southeastern portion of São Paulo state, draining toward the Paraíba do Sul river into which it empties at approximately 23°22′S, 45°39′W. The river originates within the 292,000-hectare Mananciais do Rio Paraíba do Sul Environmental Protection Area, established in 1982 to safeguard the headwaters of the Paraíba do Sul basin. The presence of this protected area around the upper watershed is relevant context for paddlers, as land use and access in that zone may be subject to environmental regulations.

The town of São Luiz do Paraitinga sits along the river and serves as the primary hub for organized paddling activity. At least one commercial rafting operator, Montana Rafting, runs trips on the river from this area and holds the top ranking among outdoor activities in São Luiz do Paraitinga on major travel review platforms. Cachoeira Do Rio Paraitinga marks at least one significant drop or rapid along the course, which paddlers should account for when planning routes. A dam structure, the Barragem Da Usina Parque De Salesópolis, is also present on the river, suggesting that the upper reaches near Salesópolis involve impounded water as well as free-flowing sections.

Detailed information on specific put-in and take-out locations, typical flow volumes, seasonal water level patterns, and water quality conditions varies. Paddlers planning a trip would benefit from contacting local operators such as Montana Rafting directly for current route guidance and logistical details.