Classic Aqua Trekking: The Iconic Couloir Samson Tour
Aqua trekking is hands down the absolute best way to discover the Grand Canyon from the inside. It is that one unexpected outdoor activity you did not think of booking, but from which you return completely amazed!
Prepare for a spectacular, fully immersive adventure into the deep gorge of the Verdon. You will conquer white water rapids using the floating technique right at the foot of giant, towering limestone cliffs. This is a dynamic, invigorating river run tailored for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike.
No ropes, no climbing harnesses required: here, you progress by swimming and drifting with the currents, lying flat on your back, feet pointing forward (floating). It is the perfect activity to admire the immense scale of the Verdon right from the water surface, explore hidden river caves, and enjoy exciting, optional cliff jumps into pristine emerald waters.
How does it compare to the Tusset tour? More sporty, intensive, and physically impressive, the Couloir Samson route plunges you into the narrowest and deepest sections of the Verdon. The river currents are stronger, and the scenery turns truly monumental with vertical walls rising hundreds of meters above you.
Description Randonnée aquatique : Aqua trekking - Couloir Samson
Trip Itinerary & Logistics
- Welcome & Departure : Rendez-vous at our private base in Castellane for equipment fitting. We then take a scenic 25-minute minibus drive to our starting point at the famous Point Sublime lookout. A breathtaking view to kick off the day!
Address: 241 route de la zone artisanale, 04120 Castellane
Open directions to the Buena Vista Base
- The Entrance : A quick and easy 5-minute approach hike down the renowned Martel Trail (Sentier Martel) gives us access to the riverbed. We enter the "Couloir Samson", the very first dramatic bottleneck gateway of the Grand Canyon (only about 10 meters wide). Looking up to our left, we can admire the famous "Grand Duc" climbing cliff—a staggering 300 meters of pure vertical rock. The stage is set.
- The Descent : At the entrance of the Couloir Samson, the water is calm, allowing everyone to easily get used to the back-floating position. Right away, a large boulder offers a perfect opportunity for our first optional cliff jump.
- Deep in the Canyon : After 20 minutes of river floating, we reach the most impressive open cave of the Verdon: the majestic Baume aux Pigeons. Here, the currents begin to pick up speed, channeled under the massive rock vault, making the swimming line clear and exciting.
- The Labyrinth : Soon, we enter the first rock labyrinth. The currents are lively here; you will learn to slalom between giant boulders and use eddies (counter-currents) to come to a stop. Your expert guide is right beside you to map out the safest lines, leading you through impressive river features like natural siphons and giant potholes (Marmites de géants).
- The Wildlife Finale : Near the end of the run, we exit the water just before the Tours de Trescaire. Here, the canyon widens, offering a perfect view of Griffon vultures soaring above the Rancoumas lookouts or surfing the thermals along the giant red walls of the Route des Crêtes. Look closely, and you might also spot rock climbers or base jumpers on the cliffs!
- The Historic Return Hike : We join the Martel Trail for our 20-minute return walk. This unique trail leads us through two long historic tunnels carved straight into the bedrock in the early 20th century for an old hydroelectric project. Your guide will be equipped with a high-powered flashlight to safely guide your group through these 800 meters of complete pitch-black darkness.
Important Info: EDF Dam Water Releases & Seasonality
This specific river activity is only possible when the upstream EDF dams are closed. If the dams are open and releasing water, the river is strictly reserved for rafting and canoeing.
- Summer Schedule (July & August) : Dams are consistently closed every day except Tuesdays and Fridays. Aqua trekking is therefore available 5 days a week.
- Early Season Warning : This tour officially opens in mid-April. Please note that in April, May, and June, spring snowmelt can create a high water flow. The tour becomes significantly more sporty and physical; you must be very comfortable in moving water!
- Mandatory Prerequisites : You must know how to swim. It is indispensable to be confident putting your head underwater and capable of swimming at least 25 meters autonomously without a life jacket.
Rates & Booking
- Early Season (Until July 12th) : 50 euros / person
- High Season (July 13th to August 23rd) : 55 euros / person
Loved the Aqua Trekking experience and ready to transition into a highly technical, vertical canyon adventure? Discover our half-day Saint-Auban canyoning tour or go all-in with our full-day Riolan expedition!
What our Adventurers say about this trip:
"An extraordinary Aqua Trekking experience with Jean-Phi!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"Breathtaking landscapes, and the kids had an absolute blast doing cliff jumps in complete safety. Very eco-friendly approach with great environmental explanations from our guide about protecting the canyon. Thank you again for this super fun aqua trek!"
Annah T (Google Review)
"Awesome activity!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My partner and I came on August 16th for an aqua trek that I discovered through your TikTok account, and honestly, we loved it from start to finish! We were guided by Walter, who was incredibly kind. We definitely plan to come back next year with our loved ones to show them this mind-blowing activity!"
Camille R (Google Review)
"Very fun Aqua Trekking!"⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
"The very first time doing this for the whole family. Our guide was very attentive and knew exactly how to build the kids' confidence. His kindness and his insights about the environment and his home region made this activity an incredible experience packed with memories and thrills! Everything was perfectly organized and the gear was top quality. Thanks to all!"
Julie (Google Review)