The Big Question – Is Canyoning Safe?

Is Canyoning Safe? Everything You Need to Know About Equipment, Guides & Techniques

CANYONING

Ivone Silva

3/17/20253 min read

Introduction: The Big Question – Is Canyoning Safe?

If you’re thinking about trying canyoning in Madeira but have safety concerns, you’re not alone. Many first-time adventurers wonder:
❓ Is canyoning dangerous?
❓ What safety measures are in place?
❓ What if I’m not experienced?

I get it—stepping into a canyon for the first time can feel intimidating. But with the right guides, equipment, and preparation, it’s an exciting, controlled, and incredibly rewarding adventure. I’ve guided thousands of people of all experience levels, and I can promise you: safety always comes first.

1. Professional guides: the key to a safe experience

Certified by ICA – International Academy of Canyoning

As an ICA-trained guide, my team and I follow the highest international safety standards. The International Academy of Canyoning Association (ICA) is dedicated to setting global canyoning training standards, and their courses go far beyond just learning rope techniques.

ICA training focuses on:
✔ Emergency preparedness & risk management
✔ Technical proficiency in different canyon environments
✔ Planning, teamwork, and communication
✔ Real-world overnight survival exercises

Having gone through this intense training myself, I know exactly how to read the canyon, adjust to different weather conditions, and guide each person safely—whether it’s their first time or they’re an experienced adventurer.

📖 More about ICA training: ica-canyoning.org

Trained in First Aid & Wilderness Emergency Response

Safety isn’t just about ropes and gear—it’s about knowing how to respond in any situation. Our minimum requirement for all guides is certified first aid training, ensuring that every trip is led by someone capable of handling medical situations.

When you go canyoning with us, you’re with a team that is not only trained to prevent accidents but also fully prepared to handle unexpected situations calmly and professionally.

2. The right gear: your safety equipment explained

We provide top-quality, CE-certified canyoning equipment designed for your protection and comfort. Here’s what you’ll be wearing:

Wetsuits & Neoprene Socks

Keep you warm in fresh canyon waters
Provide slight buoyancy for extra comfort

Helmet & Harness

Protects against falls and impacts
Keeps you securely attached to ropes when rappelling

Special Canyon Boots

Improve grip on wet surfaces
Extra protection for the ankles

3. Techniques & safety briefing before every trip

Before stepping into the canyon, we go through a detailed safety briefing so you feel confident in every movement.

What we teach before the adventure begins:
✔ How to walk on slippery rocks safely
✔ Proper rappelling & rope techniques
✔ Safe jumping techniques (optional—never mandatory!)
✔ How to use hand signals in the canyon

With clear instructions and hands-on guidance, you’ll never feel rushed or unprepared.

4. Emergency preparedness: what happens if something goes wrong?

While accidents are extremely rare, we are always prepared for any situation.

What makes canyoning with us extra safe?
✔ Guides carry first aid kits & communication devices for quick response.
✔ Pre-planned escape routes in case of sudden weather changes.
✔ All guests are insured for extra peace of mind.

Canyoning is an adventure, but it should never feel unsafe. I only run tours when conditions are right and make sure each guest is 100% comfortable before we begin.

5. “I’m not very fit—can I still go canyoning?”

Absolutely! Our tours are designed for all levels, and we’ll help you choose the right route based on your comfort and experience.

Beginner-Friendly Routes: Easy rappels, small jumps, no extreme sections.
Advanced Routes: Bigger jumps, longer rappels, more challenging terrain.

There’s no pressure to jump or do anything outside your comfort zone—your adventure is at your own pace.

Final thoughts: CANYONING IS SAFE—When Done Right

Canyoning is an exciting yet controlled adventure, and with professional guides, proper equipment, and clear safety measures, it’s a fun and safe experience for all levels.

If you’re ready to try it for yourself, book your canyoning adventure in Madeira today—and let’s make it unforgettable!