Every day our guides get the same questions from people booking canyoning in Madeira for the first time: what do I wear, what do I pack, what do I need to leave behind? Here’s the definitive list from people who run this every week.
What we provide
Already kitted out and ready to go? Book one of our Canyoning Madeira tours — every tour includes a full wetsuit, helmet, harness and shoes if you need them, plus a certified local guide.
- Neoprene wetsuit (3/5 mm depending on season)
- Helmet
- Harness with descender
- All ropes and technical gear
- Dry bag for personal items
- Snacks and water
- Transfers from your accommodation
What to wear under the wetsuit
Swimwear. That’s it. Surf shorts, a one-piece, bikini — whatever you’re comfortable in. Avoid cotton underwear under the wetsuit: it holds water and gets cold.
Shoes
The single biggest gear question. Ideal: sturdy trainers you don’t mind soaking, or purpose-made water shoes with a grippy rubber sole. Avoid: flip-flops, Crocs, brand-new white sneakers. If you don’t have anything suitable we can lend you a pair — let us know your shoe size when you book.
What to bring in your day pack
- Towel
- Dry change of clothes (for afterwards)
- Sun cream (reef-safe if possible)
- A light warm layer (fleece/hoodie) for after the descent
- Water bottle (we top you up)
- Small cash for coffee at the end
What to leave behind
- Watches and jewellery — they get scratched and lost
- Valuables — leave them in your accommodation safe
- Glasses — ideally contacts for the day. We can carry your frames in the dry bag but things get wet
- Car keys — give them to a non-participating friend or leave at reception
Camera / GoPro?
Your guide films the highlights for you — you’ll get a short edit by the evening. You’re welcome to bring a waterproof action camera, but please don’t bring a phone unless it’s in a dedicated waterproof case. Phones that look waterproof often aren’t under a hard waterfall impact.
Ready to book?
Now that you know what to pack, have a look at our canyoning tours in Madeira. Pick a route by difficulty, or message us and we’ll recommend one for your group.
