Canyoning and river walking on the Lao: differences and choice

Canyoning and river walking seem similar but they are two different activities: the river walking is a walk in the river between pools, rapids and small slides, accessible and also suitable for families; the canyoning is more technical and adrenaline-filled, because it involves descending a gorge with dives, rope descents and natural slides. On Lao River, in the Pollino Park, River Tribe organizes both with expert guides starting from Laino Borgo.

Let's see the differences in detail.

The river walking consists of walking up or down a stretch of river, crossing pools of clear water, going around boulders and letting yourself slide along small natural drops. It does not require any particular technique or rope equipment: all you need is a wetsuit, helmet and a bit of a spirit of adventure. It is a refreshing and fun activity, perfect in summer and suitable for a wide audience, including children from a certain age.

canyoning, or canyoning, is instead the actual descent of a gorge: it combines swimming, diving into pools, slides smoothed by the water and abseiling down waterfalls. It requires specific equipment (harness, ropes, helmet, thick wetsuit) and the constant presence of qualified guides, because you face exposed passages and more challenging environments. In exchange it offers an intimate and spectacular contact with the rock and water of the canyon.

How to choose between the two?

• Choose the river walking if you want a gentler experience, with your family or children, without rappelling but with lots of fun in the water.

• Choose the canyoning if you're looking for adrenaline, you're not afraid of diving and you want to learn gorge descent techniques.

• Consider the season: both are done in the warm months, when the water is more pleasant; the flow of the river influences the choice of route.

• Evaluate your confidence with water: for the canyoning it is useful to know how to swim and be comfortable diving.

In both cases, safety is taken care of down to the smallest detail: initial briefing, equipment provided by the center and guides who adapt the route to the group. You don't need to be an athlete, but it is important to follow the directions and communicate any fears before leaving.

River walking and canyoning are two different ways of experiencing the same element: the living water of Lao. If you don't know which one is right for you, tell us what experience you are looking for and who you are traveling with, and we will recommend the most suitable activity. Discover the routes and activities and contact River Tribe to book your adventure in the Pollino canyon.