Frequently Asked Questions

Canyoning (also called canyoneering) is an outdoor adventure activity that involves traveling through canyons using a variety of techniques including walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling (rappelling), and swimming. It's an exciting way to explore Madeira's stunning natural waterfalls and canyon systems.

Madeira is one of Europe's premier canyoning destinations with over 50 documented canyons. The island's unique geology, year-round warm climate, abundant waterfalls, and stunning natural scenery make it perfect for canyoning. Plus, most canyons are accessible year-round due to the mild weather.

There's no difference - they're two words for the same activity. 'Canyoning' is more commonly used in Europe, Australia, and New Zealand, while 'canyoneering' is the preferred term in the United States. Both refer to descending canyons using various techniques.

Canyoning in Madeira is possible year-round! The best months are April to October when water levels are more predictable and temperatures are warmer. However, winter canyoning (November-March) is also fantastic - you'll just need a thicker wetsuit. We operate all year and adjust canyon selection based on conditions.

Yes, when done with professional guides and proper equipment, canyoning is very safe. At Madeira Canyoning Center, safety is our top priority. All our guides are certified, we use high-quality equipment, conduct thorough safety briefings, and never take unnecessary risks. We've been operating safely for over 10 years.

No! Most of our tours are designed for complete beginners. Our Level 2 (Beginner Explorer) tours require no experience at all. We teach you everything you need to know during the safety briefing and guide you step-by-step through the canyon. If you can walk and are reasonably fit, you can go canyoning.

Yes! Many people with a fear of heights successfully complete our tours. Our guides are experienced in helping nervous participants, and you're always securely attached to ropes during descents. You can take things at your own pace, and we'll support you every step of the way. Many guests say canyoning actually helps them overcome their fear.

Yes, you can still participate in most of our canyoning tours even if you can't swim. You'll be wearing a wetsuit which provides buoyancy, and you can use a float if needed. However, you must be comfortable in water and inform us beforehand so we can provide extra support and choose appropriate canyons.

For Level 2 (beginner) tours, you need a basic level of fitness - able to walk for 1-2 hours and comfortable moving over uneven terrain. Level 3 tours require moderate fitness. Level 4 tours need good fitness and some adventure experience. If you can hike for 2-3 hours, you'll be fine for most of our tours.

Minimum age is typically 12 years old for Level 2 tours, and participants under 18 must be accompanied by an adult. For Level 3 and Level 4 tours, we recommend ages 14+ due to the physical demands. There's no upper age limit - we've had guests in their 70s! What matters most is fitness level and comfort with adventure activities.

Please inform us of any medical conditions when booking. Some conditions (like heart problems, epilepsy, severe asthma, or recent surgeries) may prevent participation for safety reasons. Minor conditions are usually fine. If you're unsure, contact us before booking and we'll advise you honestly about whether canyoning is suitable.

You can book directly through our website, WhatsApp (+351 963 028 635), or email ([email protected]). We recommend booking at least 2-3 days in advance, especially during peak season (June-September). Last-minute bookings are sometimes possible depending on availability.

Prices range from €80 for Level 2 beginner tours to €200 for Level 4 expert tours. This includes all equipment, certified guides, insurance, photos/videos of your adventure, and post-tour refreshments. We offer excellent value with small group sizes and top-quality equipment.

Everything you need! The price includes: all technical equipment (wetsuit, helmet, harness, ropes), certified professional guides, insurance, safety briefing, photos and videos of your adventure, and refreshments after the tour. You just need to bring yourself, swimwear, towel, and sense of adventure!

Transportation to the canyon is not included in the standard price, but we can arrange pickup from your accommodation for an additional fee. Most guests prefer to meet us at the designated meeting point and follow our vehicle to the canyon. We'll send you exact meeting point details when you book.

We offer free cancellation up to 48 hours before your tour for a full refund. Cancellations within 48 hours are non-refundable unless due to bad weather or unsafe conditions (in which case we'll reschedule or refund). We may need to cancel or reschedule tours due to weather - your safety always comes first.

Safety is our priority. We monitor weather and water conditions closely. If conditions are unsafe, we'll contact you to reschedule or offer a full refund. Light rain doesn't usually stop us - you're getting wet anyway! However, heavy rain, storms, or flash flood risks will result in cancellation.

We provide all technical equipment: 5mm wetsuit, neoprene socks, canyoning shoes, helmet, harness, and all safety gear. All equipment is high-quality, regularly inspected, and properly maintained. We have sizes for everyone from children to extra-large adults.

Bring: swimwear (to wear under wetsuit), towel, change of clothes, water bottle, and sun protection. Optional: waterproof camera (or we'll take photos for you), snacks, and dry bag for valuables. Don't bring jewelry or anything you don't want to get wet.

We don't recommend bringing phones or cameras unless they're waterproof and you have a secure way to carry them. Our guides take plenty of high-quality photos and videos throughout the tour which we share with you for free. This allows you to enjoy the experience without worrying about your devices.

Wear swimwear (swimming costume or board shorts) under the wetsuit. Don't wear cotton clothing as it gets heavy and cold when wet. Sports bras for women are fine. The wetsuit provides warmth and protection, so you don't need much underneath.

Level 2 (Beginner): 2 hours, 8-10 waterfalls up to 15m, perfect for first-timers. Level 3 (Adventure): 2-3 hours, 9-10 waterfalls up to 60m, most popular, no experience needed. Level 4 (Extreme): 3-4 hours, 10+ waterfalls including multiple 60m descents, requires good fitness. All levels are guided and safe.

For complete beginners, we recommend Level 2 (Beginner Explorer) to get comfortable with the techniques and environment. However, if you're adventurous and reasonably fit, Level 3 (Adventure Pro) is our most popular choice and perfect for first-timers who want more excitement. We'll help you choose based on your fitness and comfort level.

Total duration is 3-5 hours including transport to/from the canyon, equipment fitting, safety briefing, and the actual canyoning. The time in the canyon itself is: Level 2 (~2 hours), Level 3 (~2-3 hours), Level 4 (~3-4 hours). We never rush - you'll have time to enjoy the experience and take breaks.

This depends on your chosen level: Level 2 tours have waterfalls up to 15 meters, Level 3 tours up to 60 meters, and Level 4 tours include multiple 60+ meter descents. All descents are done on rope with full safety equipment, and our guides are with you every step of the way.