Canyoning FAQs - Frequently Asked Questions
Which requirements do I have to meet?
The requirements for each of our canyoning trips are listed in the tour description. It is the responsibility of the participant to choose an appropriate tour. If you are unsure, please do not hesitate to call us and discuss which tour would be right for you and your group!
Can I also book as an individual?
Yes! We welcome individual bookings. Our classic tours can be booked directly online. The tour dates with available free spaces are displayed on our booking system. Please be aware that there is a minum number of two guests to run any tour.
Do I have to book a canyoning tour in advance?
Yes, due to our logistics, a prior booking is mandatory. We accept last-minute bookings, but we can't guarantee that space will be available; therefore, we highly recommend booking at least a few days in advance. We'll confirm every booking by email and include all important information about your tour. By booking you acknowledge our general terms and conditions.
Which gear will I get?
We will provide you with top-quality gear consisting of a 2-piece neoprene wetsuit (farmer john bottom and jacket with hood), neoprene socks, canyoning harness, helmet and canyoning shoes by 5.10. You will need your own swimsuit to wear under the wetsuit.
What do I have to bring along?
Please be prepared to get wet! We'll provide you with all technical gear, but you'll need to bring your own swimsuit and bath towel, and perhaps synthetic sports underwear or fleece to wear under your wetsuit if you get cold easily. We recommend that you bring disposable contact lenses if you normally wear glasses. Of course it's also important to bring any personal medications such as asthma spray, epi-pen, or antiallergic preparation, and to notify your guide about your medical condition.
Please do not bring your valuables. While anything left in our base during your tour will be quite safe, SwissChallenge can not take responsibility for your valuable items.
Will the tour be cancelled if it rains?
As long as we are able to guarantee the safety of our guests, the tour will not be cancelled. This particularly applies to canyons with hydro-electric infrastructure (reservoirs) where rain water might never make it into the canyon. If the tour is cancelled, we will make an effort to offer an alternative tour or date, or we will refund the money to you.
What happens in the event of a sudden thunderstorm?
We use all available data to understand the weather situation before the tour, and we always err on the side of caution. Should the weather look unfavorable shortly before the tour, the tour will be cancelled and you will be offered a substitute tour or date if possible. Otherwise, we will refund the money to you. Should we be surprised in the canyon by a thunderstorm, we will break off the tour and leave the canyon via the next possible emergency exit. Please be aware that rain does not necessarily mean a tour will be canceled; please show up at the base on-time unless we call you to cancel the tour!
Do I really have to be able to swim?
Yes. You don't need to be an olympic swimmer, but without basic swimming ability you are definitely in the wrong place in a canyon!
Is the gear clean?
Our neoprene wetsuits and socks are washed thoroughly after every time they are used. Usually the gear dries quickly in the warm Ticino weather, however, it is possible that your wetsuit will still be damp when you receive it. Please be aware that this doesn't mean the suit isn't clean.
Can I bring my camera?
Yes, but only if it is a waterproof model. SwissChallenge takes no responsibility for any valuables brought along on the tour. It is also possible to rent a waterproof digital camera from SwissChallenge.
Level of difficulty
Level 1 and level 2 tours require no prior experience. Level 3 tours are suitable only for athletic individuals with rappelling and canyoning experience. Level 4 tours require that you have been canyoning with SwissChallenge in the past and have mastery of active rappelling.
Am I insured against an accident?
No, insurance coverage is the participant’s responsibility. It is assumed that our guests carry valid accident and health insurance, including cover for rescue costs. If you have travel insurance please ensure that canyoning is covered under your policy.
May I consume alcohol before the tour?
No! Canyoning must be taken seriously and demands full powers of concentration and ability to react. We will turn the guest away upon any indication of alcohol consumption. Zero tolerance!