River trekking in the Grand Canyon of the Verdon
A spectacular river trekking adventure featuring swimming, optional cliff jumps, and crystal-clear turquoise waters.
Aqua adventure pont de Tusset
⏱️
2h
💶
50€
👧
6+ ans
🏊
Beginner
🥾
Easy
A fun discovery route with a short 10–15 minute walk to the river, around 1 hour in the water, and a 10–15 minute walk back (stairs). Optional jumps up to 6 meters.
Aqua adventure couloir Samson
⏱️
2h
💶
50€
👧
10+ ans
🏊
Intermediate
🥾
Moderate
A more dynamic adventure with a short 5–10 minute walk to the river, around 1h20 in the water, and a 30-minute hike back including rocky sections and stairs. Optional jumps up to 7 meters.
Aqua adventure in the Verdon Grand Canyon
Aqua adventure, also known as **aqua trekking**, **river floating**, or **rope-free canyoning**, is the perfect way to discover the Verdon Grand Canyon from the inside.
Unlike rafting, there is no boat. You explore the river on foot, equipped with a wetsuit, a helmet, and a buoyancy aid. The adventure combines hiking, swimming, floating with the current, and optional cliff jumps.
COCO, Verdon Rafting & Canyon offers two aqua hiking routes in the Verdon Gorges: the beginner-friendly Pont de Tusset route and the more adventurous Couloir Samson route.
Aqua-adventure Pont de Tusset
The Pont de Tusset route is the most accessible. It is ideal for families, beginners, and anyone who wants to discover the Verdon Grand Canyon without facing major physical challenges.
The approach hike is short, the river section is fun and easy to enjoy, and all jumps are optional. It's the perfect introduction to aqua hiking in the Verdon.
Aqua-adventure Couloir Samson
The Couloir Samson route is a more adventurous experience, located at the entrance to the Verdon Grand Canyon. It is best suited to participants who are comfortable in the water and able to handle a more demanding hike on the way back.
This route takes you through spectacular scenery between the towering cliffs of the Verdon, combining floating with the current, swimming, and optional cliff jumps.
Practical Information
Activity duration: approximately 2 hours
Meeting point: Carajuan Parking, near Rougon
Equipment provided: wetsuit, helmet, and life jacket
Please bring: a swimsuit, closed-toe shoes, and drinking water
Cliff jumps: optional
Difficulty level: Beginner to Intermediate, depending on the route
Price: €50 per person
Questions fréquentes sur l'aqua-rando Grand Canyon dans le Verdon❓
What is the difference between aqua adventure and canyoning?
Aqua adventure, also known as aqua trekking, is similar to canyoning but without ropes or rappelling.
You make your way directly through the river, combining hiking, swimming, floating with the current, and optional cliff jumps. It's an accessible and exciting way to discover the Verdon Grand Canyon.
Which route should you choose: Pont de Tusset or Couloir Samson?
The Pont de Tusset route is the most accessible. It is ideal for families, beginners, and anyone who wants to discover the Verdon Grand Canyon without facing major physical challenges.
The **Couloir Samson** route is more adventurous. It is best suited to people who are confident in the water and comfortable with a more demanding return hike, while offering an even more spectacular setting.
Is there a lot of swimming?
Not really. During an aqua hiking trip, you spend most of the time floating with the current rather than swimming continuously. However, you do need to swim short distances to move from one side of the river to the other.
You'll wear a life jacket that helps you float, but you must be able to swim and feel comfortable in the water. This is especially important on the **Couloir Samson** route.
Is the water cold?
The water in the Verdon can be cool, even during the summer.
That's why you'll be provided with a wetsuit. It helps keep you comfortable in the water so you can fully enjoy the experience.
Can I go aqua adventure if I'm afraid of heights?
Yes. Cliff jumps are never mandatory. If you're afraid of heights, simply let your guide know at the beginning of the activity. They will support you throughout the trip and offer the most suitable alternatives.
Is aqua hiking physically demanding?
The **Pont de Tusset** route is suitable for most people with a reasonable level of fitness.
The **Couloir Samson** route is a little more demanding, mainly because of the return hike and the more dynamic nature of the adventure. You should be able to swim, walk comfortably on natural terrain, and follow your guide's instructions.
Can I join without any previous experience?
Yes. No previous experience is required.
Can I go rafting if I'm afraid of white water?
Yes, as long as your fear is moderate and you can swim.
Your guide will take the time to explain how the activity works and go through all the safety instructions. If you're very anxious about falling into the water or going through rapids, feel free to contact us before booking.
Is aqua adventure suitable for children?
Yes. Aqua hiking is a fun and engaging activity for children. Since all cliff jumps are optional, the experience can be adapted to each participant, allowing everyone to enjoy the adventure at their own pace.
Your guide is also trained in environmental education and the protection of natural ecosystems. If you're interested, they will be delighted to share their knowledge about the Verdon's unique environment, wildlife, and plant life throughout the trip.