Whats Canyoning ?

What Is Canyoning?

Canyoning (also known as canyoneering in the United States) is an outdoor adventure sport where participants travel through canyons by combining multiple techniques such as rappelling, cliff jumping, watersliding, swimming, and scrambling. This activity typically takes place in rugged natural environments, including waterfalls, gorges, and steep rock formations.

According to Canyoning Australia:
“Canyoning involves traveling through canyons using various techniques that may include walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling, and swimming.”
(Source: canyoning.org.au)

Essential Canyoning Skills

Abseiling / Rappelling – Descending vertical waterfalls or cliffs using a descender and dynamic or semi-static rope. This technique requires understanding of friction management, anchor points, and controlled descent.

Cliff Jumping – Jumping from heights into natural pools. This requires pre-checking depth, identifying potential underwater obstacles, and mastering proper body positioning for safe water entry. Strong mental focus and guided instruction are essential.

Swimming – Floating – River Crossing – Swimming through natural streams or pools, often cold or with currents. Skills include safe floating positions, using drybags for buoyancy, and navigating moving water.

Watersliding – Scrambling – Climbing – Moving over slippery rocks or steep surfaces. Requires footwork, balance, and surface assessment to avoid slipping or falling.

Essential Equipment in Canyoning

The following is a list of recommended gear for canyoning, based on standards from organizations such as the International Commission for Professional Rescue (ICOPR), Petzl Technical Institute, Beal Pro, and the International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation (UIAA).

Safety Standards and International Certifications

Canyoning is considered a high-risk activity if not conducted under proper supervision and conditions. The following organizations define and maintain safety standards for professional canyoning operations:

• UIAA – International Climbing and Mountaineering Federation

• ICOPR – Commission for Professional Rescue

• ICAN – International Canyoning Association Network

• Canyoning Australia

• French Canyon Association (FFME)

In Vietnam, companies such as Viet Challenge Tours operate internationally certified canyoning programs. Their guides are professionally trained and certified, and all equipment used complies with UIAA/CE safety standards.

Where Can You Experience Canyoning?

Globally, canyoning is popular in mountainous regions such as Switzerland, France, and New Zealand, where natural landscapes include waterfalls, narrow gorges, and challenging terrain.

In Vietnam, Da Lat is the most prominent canyoning destination. Datanla Waterfall, in particular, provides ideal natural conditions for a full canyoning tour, including multi-level waterfalls, forest trails, and granite rock formations.

Who Is Canyoning For?

• Nature lovers who are not afraid of adventure

• Individuals looking to overcome their fear of heights or water

• Anyone seeking a unique experience not found in standard tours

You do not need to be a professional athlete. As long as you are in basic physical health and open to new challenges, all necessary techniques will be taught and supervised by trained instructors.

Is Canyoning Safe?

Yes – when conducted by certified operators who follow international safety guidelines:

• Use of UIAA/CE certified equipment

• Guides with professional training and certification

• Full insurance coverage

• Mandatory pre-tour training and briefing