Extreme

Canyoning

Jumps, descents and overcoming elements in mountain gorges

HardWet 4–8 hours Year-round, except peak of rains (September-October) 3 places

What it is and why

Peak of canyoning in Vietnam is considered Da Lat. Here this sport is honed to ideal: certified guides conduct groups through cascades of waterfalls under complex names like "Mill" or "Washing machine". All route you pass in helmet, wetsuit and with insurance, turning mountain river into your personal playground.

Technically this is combination of trekking on stones, swimming in bowls under waterfalls and abseiling (descent on rope). Adventure begins in forest, and ends deep in gorge, where not reachable by ordinary tourists. This is emotionally powerful experience which requires physical endurance and readiness to trust equipment.

Where to do it in Vietnam

Points on the map are real places where this activity can be done. Numbers in the list match the markers.

Datanla waterfall
Da Lat
Mecca of canyoning, dozens of routes of different complexity.
Pongour
Da Lat
Large cascades requiring serious preparation.
Golden stream
Da Lat
Less crowded routes for deep immersion in jungle.

Tips

Choose only licensed companies with English-speaking instructors — at stake your safety.
Wetsuit is issued on place, but under it more convenient to wear sports underwear which dries quickly.
Do not take gadgets with you if you do not have professional waterproof case: dynamics of descent does not forgive mistakes.
Listen to briefing on giving signals and technique of braking on rope — this will save you strength and skin on palms.

Caution

Canyoning strictly contraindicated in bad weather. If in mountains passed rains, rise of water level in narrow canyon can be instant and dangerous.
Presence of insurance for active sports is obligatory: basic tourist insurance will not cover this type of activity.