Do you like water sports? The Dordogne will surprise you with its splendid landscapes. Thanks to its green forests and its waterways, this haven of peace will simply seduce you. Located in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region, the Dordogne is known above all for its natural heritage. So, if you want to experience a moment of relaxation and, above all, a change of scenery, don’t hesitate to choose the 24th department as your destination! Also, if you want to try canyoning, the surroundings will offer you an impressive playground.

As there are no canyoning sites in this department, we are happy to offer you alternatives as close as possible to this place.

Where to go canyoning near the Dordogne?

• Canyon of the Dordogne Valley: We are in the heart of the Dordogne Valley, in this incredible canyon. It is suitable for everyone and essentially for all levels. This means that you can enjoy the best emotions of canyoning with jumps, slides and rappels - all fun, laughter and discovering new feelings! Once you’re there, you will discover a fun canyoning, ideal for families in a splendid setting in the middle of the forest. Go for the adventure!

• Terre de Causse: Located in Padirac, you will enjoy a canyoning descent in an enchanting setting. The advantage of this canyon is certainly its proximity to the famous peak that houses the village. With a depth of over 100 meters, you will be only a few miles away from this tourist attraction. The program includes caves and peaks that will make your outing an authentic excursion in the middle of nature. In addition, you can make jumps to live even more emotions in this canyon. A perfect mix between water trekking and speleology.

• The gorges of the Chal: An aquatic canyon that will give you all the emotions you are looking for during a three-course descent. With jumps, rappels and slides, you will learn to master the key elements of canyoning in a breathtaking environment. You will have an unobstructed view of the stream that later flows into the Dordogne. Ideal for young and adults.

What are the options for descents?

In the region, you can choose between two main options depending on your level and experience.

- Discovery: Perfect for beginners who want to get started in this water sport. Usually lasting half day, you will learn the essential techniques of canyoning. In the calm sections, you will become familiar with the jumps, rappels and slides. A gentle initiation to this sport that will leave you with indelible memories, thanks to the adrenaline and endorphin feelings that you have never experienced before. If this is your case, the Dordogne valley canyon will be perfect for you to spend about 2.5 hours of fun!

- Adventure: This option offers you even more thrills due to the nature of the canyon at issue. Although more intense, it is also suitable for beginners. Thanks to the professionals, you will be safe in the rapids. Les Gorges du Chal is a perfect choice for you. Especially because its canyon can be divided into two parts: the upstream part for beginners and the downstream part for adventurers. You have approximately 3 hours and 30 minutes for this formula.

Who can do this activity?

Canyoning in and around the Dordogne is accessible to almost everyone. You will have to respect some requirements for your safety. You must know how to swim and dive. You must also be in good health condition. The criteria can also vary according to the route and the difficulty. For example, the Martel course is accessible to children from 8 years old, while the Chal gorges are accessible to children from the age of 15.

If you meet all the requirements, there is only one thing left to do: book now!

When is the best time to do this experience?

Our partner centres in the Dordogne open their doors from spring to autumn. The summer season remains the best season for this activity. Indeed, it is very pleasant to cool off during a water activity during a long summer day. However, some canyons may run out of water during this time. In this case, the instructors will inform you as soon as possible.

In addition, as this is an outdoor activity, it is subject to weather conditions. The team reserves the right to postpone your excursion if it considers that conditions are not suitable to ensure the safety of the group.

What to wear on the day of the activity?

The instructors will ask you to wear a swimsuit and sports shoes. They will provide you with a wetsuit for the colder days and a helmet and harness for the rappels. Don't forget to bring a towel, some spare clothes and some snacks just in case.

Thanks to the professionalism of the instructors, the breath-taking scenery of the area and the thrill of this water sport, you have plenty of reasons to have an incredible day. To try and try over again, each experience in this area will be unique, but you will always finish the activity with a smile on your face!