AquaTrekking & River Floating Grand Canyon Verdon | Buena Vista

Aqua Trekking in the Grand Canyon du Verdon: Explore the River from Within

Explore the heart of the Verdon Gorge along the water currents, without the need for ropes, harnesses, or vertigo!

The water flow of the Verdon River is regulated by two major EDF hydroelectric dams: the Castillon dam and the Chaudanne dam located just upstream from Castellane. When these dams are closed, the river flow drops to a gentle pace, allowing us to safely enter the giant Grand Canyon on foot and experience the unique adventure of Aqua Trekking (also known as Rando Aqua or River Floating).

Summer Scheduling (July & August) : This activity can be safely practiced every day of the week, except on Tuesdays and Fridays (which are reserved for rafting when the dams are open).

During this activity, your main technique will be floating on your back (floating), feet first down the emerald currents. This position allows you to effortlessly glide with the water flow without damaging the riverbed, giving you a 100% panoramic view of the majestic limestone cliffs of the Grand Canyon. You will simply use your arms to steer your body and catch the best paths.

Throughout the journeys, several cliff jumps will be proposed. All jumps are completely optional! Unlike canyoning, which takes place in a steep vertical environment, in aqua trekking, you climb up the rocks before jumping into deep pools. This means everyone can freely choose whether or not to take the option, adjusting the height of their jump to their own bravery.

Our 3 Mythical Aqua Trekking Itineraries in the Verdon Gorge

Because everyone has different expectations, ages, and fitness levels, we offer three iconic routes inside the gorge:

1. The Tusset Run (Parcours de Tusset) : This route is dedicated to families with young children or anyone looking for a gentle first introduction to white water sports. Accessible from 7 years old, it takes place just upstream from the Couloir Samson in a wider, sunnier canyon section. It features calmer currents but offers plenty of fun opportunities for cliff jumps.
2. The Couloir Samson Run (Parcours du Couloir Samson) : This is our most famous route, the absolute classic half-day aqua trek. Starting right beneath the legendary Point Sublime lookout, this trip is breathtakingly beautiful and plunges you into the core atmosphere of the giant canyon walls.
3. The Samson-Trescaire Full-Day Expedition (Samson Trescaire Journée) : A full-day immersive journey. We begin with the classic Couloir Samson section (where you might cross paths with other groups, especially in summer), and then... surprise! Suddenly, the Grand Canyon becomes completely ours as we enter a secluded wild zone. We carry our own lunches in waterproof containers for an ultra-privileged private picnic on a secret beach deep inside the canyon.

A quick note regarding the famous Imbut Trail: Like many of you, we are eagerly waiting for the reopening of the mythical "L'Imbut" route, which has been officially closed by local authorities since July 2022 due to environmental and safety checks. We are actively pushing for its return each season and will update our community on social media the second we get the green light!

FAQ - Aqua Trekking in the Verdon

What is the difference between Aqua Trekking and Canyoning? In Aqua Trekking, you follow the river's natural path by floating down the currents and walking along the banks. There is no rope abseiling (rappelling), so fear of heights or vertigo is absolutely never an issue. Additionally, all cliff jumps are 100% optional. You climb the rocks before jumping, meaning you can choose your own height up to 7 meters, or simply choose to walk around!

What is the minimum age required? Aqua trekking is ideal for kids. The Tusset discovery run is accessible from 7 years old, while the classic Couloir Samson run requires a minimum age of 10 years old.

Is it mandatory to know how to swim? Yes, it is absolutely indispensable. You must be comfortable putting your head underwater and be able to swim at least 25 meters autonomously without a buoyancy aid.

Looking for a Vertical Adventure instead?

If you prefer an activity involving ropes, abseiling down waterfalls, natural rock slides, and steep gorges, check out our dedicated Canyoning Trips. We have the perfect route waiting for your group, accessible from 8 years old!

 [Discover our Canyoning Tours in the Verdon Region]

 

Our aqua-trekking courses