WHAT IS CANYONING?

Canyoning: Adventure in Its Most Authentic Form

Canyoning, also known as torrentismo, is a sport and adventure activity that involves descending canyons, gorges, and rivers using specific progression techniques and specialized equipment such as a wetsuit, harness, helmet, and ropes.

A canyon is a deep gorge carved over time by the erosive action of water, which over thousands of years has shaped spectacular rock walls, natural slides, and crystal-clear pools. During a canyoning excursion, participants face a series of natural obstacles such as rappelling, jumping into water pools, sliding down water-polished rocks, and swimming in flowing waters.

Canyoning is a multidisciplinary activity that combines climbing, swimming, trekking, and rope techniques. It is both adrenaline-pumping and deeply immersive, offering the chance to experience nature from a unique perspective, exploring hidden and untouched environments that are usually inaccessible.

Beyond the physical challenge, canyoning allows you to admire the wild, primordial beauty of canyons, often located in remote areas where the power of water has created breathtaking landscapes. Each canyoning route offers a different mix of adventure, physical challenge, and connection with nature, making every descent a unique experience.

Practicing canyoning also means pushing your limits, facing heights, water, and the unpredictability of the environment, while developing self-confidence and teamwork. It is an activity that provides strong emotions, adrenaline, and a sense of freedom, ideal for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience.

It is essential to practice canyoning safely, always accompanied by professional guides who know the routes and can assess the canyon and weather conditions. Proper equipment and adherence to safety rules are key elements to enjoy the experience safely and pleasantly.

Canyoning can be practiced all over the world, in canyons of varying difficulty and geological features. There are dry canyons, which can be traversed without constant water flow, and aquatic canyons, where currents and waterfalls make the adventure even more thrilling. The difficulty of a canyoning route depends on the canyon’s morphology, the technical skills required, and the participants’ experience.

Whether it’s a simple route for beginners or a technical itinerary for experts, canyoning is always synonymous with adventure, discovery, and connection with nature.

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Who Can Do Canyoning

Canyoning is an activity suitable for everyone, as long as you choose the right route according to your experience level and physical condition. There are canyoning itineraries for beginners, ideal for families, groups of friends, or anyone trying this exciting sport for the first time, as well as more technical and challenging routes reserved for those with experience in ropes, descents, and aquatic environments.

In general, canyoning is suitable for those who:

  • Are in good physical condition and enjoy outdoor activities;

  • Can swim and are comfortable with water and heights;

  • Are willing to challenge themselves, overcoming small natural obstacles such as jumps, slides, and rope descents;

  • Are ready to follow professional guides’ instructions and respect safety rules.

Many guides and specialized centers offer canyoning excursions for children and teenagers, with easy, short, and safe routes under the supervision of qualified instructors. Likewise, more experienced participants can tackle longer and technical canyons, with rope descents, waterfalls, and swimming in currents.

Canyoning is therefore a versatile and accessible sport, suitable for all ages and skill levels. Whether you are a beginner or an adventure enthusiast, you will always find a canyoning route perfect for you — the most important thing is to rely on expert guides and use certified equipment.

No, all the technical equipment is included in the cost of the excursion

When Can You Go Canyoning

Canyoning is mainly practiced from spring to autumn, when weather conditions and water flow in the streams are more favorable and safe. In general, the ideal season for canyoning is from May to October, but the best period also depends on the geographical area, the type of canyon, and the experience level of participants.

During these months, temperatures are milder, the water is less cold, and the natural environment is at its most beautiful, offering a pleasant and adventurous experience. In spring, streams may be fuller due to snowmelt or winter rains, making canyoning more dynamic and adrenaline-filled. In summer, the routes are perfect for those who want to cool offand enjoy an exciting experience in contact with nature.

Autumn offers spectacular landscapes, with intense colors and less crowded canyons, ideal for those seeking peace and immersion in nature. However, it is always important to rely on experienced canyoning guides, who assess weather and water conditions before each excursion to ensure maximum safety.

Canyoning in winter is possible only in special cases and with adequate technical equipment (thick wetsuits, dry suits, gloves, neoprene boots), and is recommended only for experienced canyoners or professionals.

In winter, it is also possible to do dry canyoning, or canyoning in dry canyons, where water has not flowed for thousands of years. Dry canyoning allows you to descend with ropes from different heights and admire the spectacular landscapes that water has silently created over time.


Summary by Season

  • 🌿 Spring (April – June): full streams and more lively routes

  • ☀️ Summer (July – September): warm weather, pleasant water, and ideal canyons for beginners

  • 🍂 Autumn (September – October): spectacular scenery and fewer crowds

  • ❄️ Winter: only for experts on aquatic routes with controlled conditions, or for everyone in dry canyons (dry canyoning)

The best time for canyoning is when weather conditions, water levels, and safety combine, allowing you to experience an unforgettable adventure in harmony with nature.


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Is Canyoning Suitable for Beginners?

Absolutely yes! 💧
Canyoning is an activity that can also be enjoyed by beginners, as long as you choose the right route and rely on professional guides. No climbing or prior sports experience is required — just a bit of adventurous spirit, basic physical fitness, and a willingness to challenge yourself.

We offer descents designed for beginners, perfect for anyone approaching this discipline for the first time:

  • Rope descents are simple and always supervised by a guide;

  • Jumps and natural slides are optional, so you can choose whether to try them or bypass them;

  • Distances and elevation changes are small, ideal for getting comfortable with the environment and the equipment.

During the excursion, canyoning guides explain each maneuver step by step, teaching how to use the rope, move safely in the water, and overcome obstacles. All necessary equipment — wetsuit, helmet, harness, and descender — is provided by the guides.

Canyoning for beginners is therefore a fun and accessible experience, perfect for those who want to try something new and enjoy an immersive adventure in nature. With time and some experience, it is possible to tackle longer and more technical routes, discovering new canyons along the way.


In short:

➡️ Yes, beginners can do canyoning!
The key is to start with routes suited to your level, accompanied by expert guides, so you can enjoy the adventure safely and with maximum fun.

Where to Go Canyoning for Beginners in Italy

Italy offers numerous spectacular locations for canyoning, perfect even for those trying this fascinating activity for the first time. Thanks to the variety of its landscapes — from the Alps and Dolomites to the central and southern regions — it is possible to find beginner-friendly canyoning routes set in breathtaking natural scenery.

Here are some of the best Italian destinations to try canyoning:

🏞️ Trentino-Alto Adige and Lake Garda
Trentino is one of the most popular destinations for canyoning in Italy. The gorges around Lake Garda, such as Torrente Palvico and Rio Nero, offer ideal routes for beginners, with moderate descents, natural slides, and crystal-clear pools.

⛰️ Piedmont
In the mountains of Piedmont, you can find stunning canyons like Val Bianca, perfect for a first approach to canyoning in an extraordinary alpine environment. Beginner routes offer a balanced mix of adventure, jumps, and easy rope descents.

🌿 Lombardy
In Val Bodengo (Sondrio province) and around Lake Como and Lake Iseo, there are canyons highly appreciated by newcomers. Experienced guides accompany participants step by step, ensuring safety and fun.

🧗 Tuscany
The Alpi Apuane and Garfagnana areas are rich in streams ideal for canyoning. The Rio Selvano is one of the most famous: a fascinating experience among limestone walls and clear waters, suitable even for less experienced participants.

💦 Umbria
In central Italy, beginner canyoning can be practiced in Umbrian streams, such as the Forra di Prodo, offering short but exciting routes.

🌊 Sardinia
Sardinia is a true gem for canyoning enthusiasts. Su Gorroppu, in the Supramonte, is one of the most majestic canyons in Europe, while easier routes in Ogliastra and Nuoro are perfect for first-timers.


Tips for First-Time Canyoning

  • Always choose professional AIGC-certified guides;

  • Wear approved wetsuit, helmet, and harness (provided by your guides);

  • Start with easy routes to get comfortable with water and ropes;

  • Bring shoes with good grip, swimsuit, towel, and a change of clothes (or rent canyoning shoes from your guides);

  • Listen carefully to instructions and approach the route with patience and curiosity.


In conclusion, beginner canyoning in Italy is an exciting way to experience nature actively, discovering hidden and pristine places. Whether you choose alpine gorges in the North, valleys in central Italy, or rocky canyons in the South, each canyoning experience is a unique and unforgettable adventure.

Can Children Do Canyoning?

Yes, children can also practice canyoning, as long as the activity is organized with experienced guides and routes suitable for their age. In recent years, canyoning for children and families has become increasingly popular because it combines adventure, play, and nature exploration into a unique and educational experience.


👶 Minimum Age and Requirements

Generally, children can start canyoning from 5–8 years old, depending on the route and environmental conditions. It is important that they:

  • Feel comfortable in water and can swim, even at a basic level, or at least are not afraid of water;

  • Have good attention skills and follow the guide’s instructions;

  • Always wear child-specific equipment, such as an adjustable wetsuit, helmet, and harness.

Canyoning excursions for children take place on easy routes, with low natural slides, shallow pools, and small rope descents always supervised by the guide. The goal is not athletic performance, but fun, exploration, and learning to respect nature.


🌿 Why Canyoning is Perfect for Kids

Canyoning for children stimulates curiosity, self-confidence, and teamwork. Moving between water and rocks helps develop balance, coordination, and a sense of adventure, all within a fascinating natural environment.

It is also an experience that strengthens the bond between parents and children, as family-friendly routes often allow the adventure to be shared together, creating memorable moments and discoveries.


In Short

Yes, children can do canyoning!
Just choose easy routes, professional guides, and equipment suitable for their age.

Canyoning for children is an exciting way to experience nature, learn to respect it, and have fun safely.

Is It Necessary to Know How to Swim for Canyoning?

Many people wonder if swimming skills are essential for canyoning, and the answer is: it depends on the type of route. In general, for beginners choosing easy routes, you don’t need to know how to swim — just not being afraid of water is enough.

Canyoning often takes place in natural environments where water is a central element: streams, waterfalls, pools, and small lakes formed by rock erosion. During the excursion, you may need to swim short stretches or float in pools, especially in aquatic canyons.


🏊 Why Swimming Is Useful but Not Essential

During excursions, all participants wear a neoprene wetsuit and a buoyancy vest (if necessary or upon request), which help even non-experienced swimmers stay afloat easily.
Professional guides are always present to assist participants in water passages, providing full support and ensuring safety.


💡 What If I Can’t Swim or Am Afraid of Water?

Those who cannot swim can still try canyoning, but they should inform the guides in advance. Guides will select suitable routes with shallow water or dry sections, such as dry canyons, where water is absent or minimal.


In Short

Knowing how to swim is recommended, but not always mandatory.
With the right equipment, experienced guides, and routes suited to each participant’s level, canyoning can be safely enjoyed even by those with limited swimming ability.

💶 Average Cost

The price of canyoning varies depending on the chosen route:

Type of Excursion Approximate Price per Person*
Half-day (2–3 hours) for beginners €45–75
Full-day (4–6 hours) €85–100
More technical or challenging routes Up to €110–130 or more, depending on difficulty, region, and included equipment

*These prices usually include: professional guide, basic equipment (wetsuit, helmet, harness).


🔎 Factors That Influence the Price

The cost can vary greatly depending on:

  • Duration of the activity – Half-day vs full-day. Longer excursions are more expensive.

  • Difficulty of the route – More technical routes (high rope descents, multiple jumps, challenging passages) cost more.

  • Location / region – Alpine or remote areas tend to have higher rates compared to more accessible locations.

  • Number of participants / group – Group activities are often cheaper per person; private excursions cost more.


How Long Does a Canyoning Excursion Last?

The duration of a canyoning excursion can vary greatly depending on several factors, such as the type of route, difficulty, canyon length, and participants’ experience level.


⏱️ Half-Day Excursions

  • Duration: approximately 2–4 hours

  • Ideal for: beginners, children, families, or anyone trying canyoning for the first time

  • Features: shorter routes with moderate rope descents, easy natural slides, and few swimming sections


⏱️ Full-Day Excursions

  • Duration: approximately 5–7 hours

  • Ideal for: those with some experience or who want a complete adventure

  • Features: longer, more scenic routes with multiple rope descents, jumps, swims in natural pools, and technical sections


⏱️ Advanced or Technical Routes

  • Duration: up to 8–10 hours or more, sometimes over multiple days

  • Ideal for: experienced canyoners and extreme adventure enthusiasts

  • Features: high rope descents, challenging swims, advanced rope techniques, remote or hard-to-reach canyons


Factors That Influence Duration

  • Canyon length: longer canyons require more time

  • Number of obstacles and descents: more jumps, slides, and rope descents take longer

  • Group experience: beginners move slower, while guides and experienced participants move faster

  • Weather and water flow: high water levels or strong currents can slow progress

  • Breaks and sightseeing: stopping to enjoy the view or take photos increases total duration


In Short

✅ Canyoning can last from 2 hours up to a full day, depending on the chosen route and difficulty level.
For beginners and families, the most common excursions are 2–4 hours, while those seeking a more complete or technical experience can tackle routes lasting 5–7 hours or more.


n Tuscany, there are many canyoning routes suitable for beginners. Here are some of the most beautiful streams:


🌿 1. Rio Selvano – Garfagnana (Lucca)

  • Features: A spectacular route with waterfalls, rope descents up to 15 meters, natural slides, and crystal-clear waters.

  • Difficulty: Medium, suitable for beginners in good physical condition.

  • Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours in the water.

  • Recommended Season: From May to November

  • Details: All technical equipment needed for the activity is provided by our guides.

To book Rio Selvano, click here.


🌿 2. Rio Buti – Vaiano (PO)

  • Features: A simple but very beautiful and fun route.

  • Difficulty: Easy, suitable for beginners and families with children.

  • Duration: Approximately 2.5 hours in the water.

  • Recommended Season: From March to June (in summer the canyon is dry).

  • Details: All technical equipment needed for the activity is provided by our guides.

To book Rio Buti, click here.

 

Canyoning faq

Frequently Asked Questions…

What Shoes Do You Need for Canyoning

Shoes are one of the most important pieces of equipment for canyoning, as they provide safety, grip, and protectionwhile navigating slippery and uneven natural environments.


👟 Key Features

When choosing shoes for canyoning, they should have:

  • Non-slip rubber sole – to walk safely on wet rocks without the risk of slipping.

  • Secure closure – laces, Velcro, or straps to keep the shoe firmly on your foot, preventing it from being washed away by currents.

  • Ankle protection – high-cut shoes that protect the ankle are always recommended.

  • Comfortable fit – since you will walk, slide, and swim, the shoe should be stable and comfortable.


🏞️ Recommended Types of Shoes

  • Dedicated canyoning shoes – specifically designed for this activity, offering maximum grip, protection, and drainage (available for rent at our canyoning center).

  • Light trekking shoes – suitable for dry canyons or easy routes, but less effective on wet rocks.

  • Athletic shoes / sneakers – the sole should have good tread, and shoes should not be too old.


❌ What to Avoid

  • Sandals, flip-flops, or regular sneakers without a non-slip sole – dangerous on wet rocks.

  • Shoes that are too loose or heavy – can affect balance or retain water, making them uncomfortable.

  • Rock shoes or neoprene shoes not designed for canyoning.


💡 Extra Tip

If you’re unsure which shoes to bring, or don’t want to get your own shoes wet, you can rent canyoning shoes, ideal for first-timers who don’t want to purchase specialized equipment.


In Short

For canyoning, you need durable, snug, and quick-draining shoes with a non-slip sole and good foot protection. The right choice increases safety, comfort, and fun throughout the excursion, whether on wet or dry canyons.

Not everyone offers this service, but fortunately, we do.

In our warehouse, we have canyoning shoes for everyone, from size 29 for the little ones to size 50 for big feet.

How to Dress for Canyoning

Dressing properly is essential for safety, comfort, and fun during a canyoning excursion. The activity takes place in wet and sometimes cold natural environments, so it’s important to choose appropriate technical clothing.


👕 1. Base Clothing

  • Swimsuit or technical T-shirt under the wetsuit: keeps you comfortable even in cold water.

  • Thermal shirt or lycra (NO COTTON): helps maintain body temperature.

  • Avoid cotton clothing: it absorbs water, becomes heavy, and takes a long time to dry.

  • Thermal pants: useful for keeping warm.

  • Sneakers or trekking shoes that can get wet (No rock shoes or neoprene shoes).

  • Polyester socks that can get wet.

  • Towel and a complete change of clothes to bring after the excursion.

All necessary base equipment will be provided by our guides.


🧥 2. Neoprene Wetsuit

The wetsuit is essential for protection against cold and impacts. Our guides will provide a 5mm thermal neoprene wetsuit.

The wetsuit should fit snugly but not too tight, allowing full freedom of movement. It may be difficult to put on, especially if it’s your first time — don’t worry, this is completely normal.


🧗 3. Helmet and Harness

  • Helmet: protects against impacts with rocks or during rope descents.

  • Harness: necessary for rope descents, always properly adjusted by the guide.


👟 4. Suitable Shoes

If you don’t have a pair of shoes that can get wet, you can rent canyoning shoes from us.


💡 Practical Tips

  • Wear several thin layers instead of a single thick one: this allows better movement and thermal insulation.

  • All clothing should dry easily and not restrict movement.

  • If in doubt, guides provide the wetsuit, helmet, and harness, so often you only need to bring a swimsuit, socks, and suitable shoes.


In Short

For canyoning, you need clothing that is:

Water-resistant
Thermally insulating
Protective against impacts and abrasions
Comfortable and flexible

With the right combination of wetsuit, helmet, harness, and technical shoes, the experience will be safe, comfortable, and fun, even for beginners or children.

CANYONING

Canyoning Faq

Is It Cold in the Canyon?

Yes, in many cases it can be cold in the canyon, but this depends on several factors such as season, altitude, water flow, and sun exposure. Here’s a complete explanation:


Why It Can Be Cold in the Canyon

Cold Water
Mountain streams and high valley rivers are often fed by snowmelt or springs, with temperatures that can be very low even in summer.
Cold water can rapidly lower body temperature if you are not wearing an appropriate wetsuit.

Shade and Deep Gorges
Canyons are often narrow and deep, so the sun only reaches them at certain times of the day.
This keeps the environment shaded and cool, with cold air currents between the rock walls.

Wind and Microclimate
Gorges can create wind effects that increase the feeling of cold.
Some high mountain canyons have a microclimate colder than the surrounding area.


How to Protect Yourself from the Cold

  • Neoprene wetsuit: essential for insulation from cold water, with appropriate thickness (5 mm in summer).

  • Booties: useful in particularly cold canyons.

  • Thermal shirt or lycra under the wetsuit: increases insulation without restricting movement.

  • Towel and dry clothes: essential at the end of the excursion to avoid getting cold.


In Short

✅ Yes, it can be cold in the canyon, especially in the water and deep gorges.
✅ An appropriate wetsuit and technical clothing ensure comfort and safety, even during excursions in cold water or high mountains.
✅ Experienced guides know how to choose suitable routes and advise on equipment to safely face the cold.

Is Canyoning Dangerous?

There is no zero-risk outdoor activity. The canyon environment is beautiful but demanding, and your responsibility combined with our expertise is the best way to mitigate risks.

Canyoning is an adventurous and dynamic activity, but like all outdoor sports, it involves some risks. However, with the right precautions and supervision by experienced guides, it can be practiced safely, even by beginners.


🔹 Main Risks

Slips and Falls
Rocks in canyons can be wet and slippery, especially after rain or in rivers with strong currents.
Proper shoes and careful attention during passages greatly reduce the risk.

Immersion in Cold Water
Water in canyons can be very cold, especially in spring or at high altitudes.
A suitable wetsuit protects against the cold and prevents hypothermia.

Rope Descents and Jumps
Some excursions include rope descents or jumps into natural pools.
Correct use of equipment, precise instructions from guides, and routes suitable for the participant’s level make these activities safe.


🔹 How to Reduce Risks

  • Rely on professional guides who know the canyon and safety techniques.

  • Always use the correct equipment: wetsuit, helmet, harness, carabiners, and descender.

  • Choose routes suitable for your level: beginners, children, or non-swimmers can enjoy easier or dry canyons.

  • Follow all instructions from the guide, avoiding risky behaviors such as unauthorized jumps or unsafe descents.


🔹 In Short

✅ Canyoning can involve risks, such as slips.
✅ However, with experienced guides and proper equipment, it is a beautiful activity suitable for beginners and families.
✅ The key to a safe and enjoyable experience is to follow instructions, choose the right route, and use equipment correctly.

✅ Canyoning requires moderate physical effort, but you don’t need to be a professional athlete.
✅ The level of fatigue depends on the duration, difficulty, and conditions of the canyon.
✅ With a route suited to your level, basic preparation, and experienced guides, canyoning is fun and accessible even for beginners, without being excessively tiring.

CANYONING BOOKING

Canyoning Faq

Booking is mandatory, you can do it by email by writing to info@tateam.it or via whatsapp on 3487911215

How to Book a Canyoning Excursion

Booking a canyoning excursion is simple, but it’s important to follow a few steps to ensure safety, fun, and organization.


1️⃣ Choose the Location and Route

Decide where you want to go canyoning.

  • Consider the difficulty level, duration, and canyon features: easy routes for beginners, technical routes for experienced participants.

  • Check if the route is suitable for children or non-swimmers, if necessary.


2️⃣ Consult Your Guide for Advice

Make sure to:

  • Book only with canyoning centers that have professional guides.

  • Verify if the center provides complete equipment: wetsuit, helmet, harness, carabiners, booties.

  • Check online reviews and the reputation of the guide or center.


3️⃣ Check Availability and Seasons

  • Canyons are seasonal, especially aquatic ones (spring–summer).

  • Verify availability for your preferred date and time, especially during peak season.


4️⃣ Online or Phone Booking

  • Most centers allow online bookings via their website or email.

  • Some require phone reservations, useful to clarify doubts about difficulty, equipment, or weather conditions.

  • Some centers offer family or group packages, with discounts or customized guided excursions.


5️⃣ Confirmation and Payment

  • After booking, you will receive confirmation by email or phone.

  • Some centers require a deposit or advance payment, while others pay directly on-site.


6️⃣ Preparation Before the Excursion

  • Bring appropriate clothing: swimsuit, shoes, towel, dry change of clothes.

  • Arrive early to receive equipment, safety instructions, and a guide briefing.


🔹 In Short

✅ Choose the canyon and a route suitable for your group.
✅ Rely on professional guides.
✅ Book online or by phone, and confirm availability and payment.
✅ Prepare with appropriate clothing and equipment.

Following these steps makes booking canyoning simple, safe, and stress-free, ready to enjoy an exciting adventure in nature.


If you want to book an activity with us:
Click here.

 


How Far in Advance Should You Book Canyoning?

The timing for booking a canyoning excursion depends on several factors, such as season, type of route, and number of participants.


1️⃣ Peak Season (Spring–Summer)

  • Popular canyons and beginner routes can fill up quickly, especially on weekends or during holidays.

  • It’s recommended to book at least 2–3 weeks in advance to ensure availability.

  • For large groups or families, it’s better to book up to 1 month in advance.


2️⃣ Off-Season (Autumn–Early Spring)

  • Routes are less crowded, and guides have more availability.

  • Booking 1–2 weeks in advance is usually sufficient, but it’s always better to confirm early.


3️⃣ Special or Advanced Routes

  • Technical canyons or long, remote excursions often require 1–2 months advance booking, as guides need to plan logistics, equipment, and safety.


4️⃣ Last-Minute Bookings

  • Some centers offer last-minute availability, but this depends on canyon conditions and guide availability.

  • Relying on last-minute bookings is risky, especially during peak season.


🔹 Practical Tips

  • Always check weather conditions before confirming the date, as rain or high water flow may alter or cancel the route.

  • Booking in advance allows you to choose the route suited to your level, secure available equipment, and organize transfers if needed.


In Short

Peak season: book at least 2–3 weeks in advance (1 month for groups).
Off-season: book 1–2 weeks in advance.
Advanced or long routes: book 1–2 months in advance.
Last-minute: possible only if the center has availability, but not guaranteed.

✅ It is possible to go canyoning with large groups.
✅ Choose easy or medium routes, especially if there are beginners or children in the group.
Book in advance to ensure enough equipment and guides.
Following the guide’s instructions is essential for safety and enjoyment.

You can do all the activities on our site. / You can do up to two activities a day, write to us for info.

You can book an active weekend with various activities on our site

If you need help you can contact our guides,

We periodically organize trips in Italy and abroad

You can stay updated by contacting us at info@tateam.it or following us on social media

OUR CANYONING ROUTES

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