From Athens: Manikia Gorge Canyoning

If you’ve been dreaming of adding a splash of adventure to your Greece trip, this canyoning tour in Manikia Gorge might just be what you’re after. We haven’t done it ourselves, but based on the reviews and the info available, it sounds like a solid choice for those wanting a mix of nature, adrenaline, and expert guidance.

What really catches our eye are the chance to learn abseiling techniques from experienced instructors and the opportunity to swim in crystal-clear natural pools. Plus, with the option to include a tasty lunch and hotel transfer, it offers a full-day adventure that’s easy to fit into your Greece itinerary.

Of course, a potential consideration is that this tour requires moderate fitness and basic swimming skills, so it’s not for complete beginners or those with certain physical limitations. Still, it seems well-suited for active travelers who want a memorable outdoor experience, especially if you’re traveling with others who enjoy a bit of thrill and nature.

Key Points

• Suitable for most with moderate fitness and basic swimming skills
• Guides are experienced and knowledgeable, making the activity safer and more enjoyable
• Includes all necessary equipment, so no need to worry about bringing your own
• Offers optional extras like lunch and hotel pickup for added convenience
• The tour focuses on fun, with activities like abseiling, swimming, and river trekking
• Limited to small groups, so you’ll get personal attention

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Manikia Gorge Canyoning Experience

The Location and Setting

This canyoning adventure takes place in Manikia Gorge, a hidden gem in Central Greece. The gorge is part of the Evia region, famous for its lush landscapes and natural beauty. While not the most famous spot in Greece, the gorge packs a punch with its striking views and the chance to explore a less-traveled area.

The natural pools and waterfalls offer a refreshing escape from city life, and during the tour, you’ll get to see a secret waterfall that’s often described as awe-inspiring. If you love exploring lesser-known spots, this tour hits that sweet spot.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Your day begins either with a meeting at the village’s central square or a hotel pickup, depending on what you select when booking. From there, your guides will introduce you to the equipment — helmets, harnesses, wetsuits — ensuring you feel confident before heading into the gorge.

What’s great here is the balance of walking, jumping, and abseiling techniques. The activity involves trekking up the canyon, which is part of the adventure, and climbing is made easier thanks to the guides’ instructions. The highlight is the abseiling down a 25-metre waterfall, an experience that even those new to rappelling find manageable and thrilling.

What You’ll Do During the Tour

• Initial briefing and equipment fitting: Your guides will give you a quick intro, making sure you’re comfortable with all gear.
• Canyoning through the gorge: You’ll follow your guide, navigating the terrain and enjoying the scenery along the way.
• Abseiling: The big moment here is descending the waterfall — a perfect chance to feel a rush of adrenaline in a safe environment.
• Swimming in natural pools: After the descent, you’ll splash into cool waters, which is often described as a breath-taking experience.
• River trekking and exploring: The tour concludes with exploring accessible natural spots that you wouldn’t encounter on your own, adding an extra layer of adventure.

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The Guides and Equipment

Reviews highlight that the guides, like Mike and Nikos, are both knowledgeable and welcoming. This makes a big difference, especially if you’re new to canyoning. They’re there to ensure safety but also make the experience relaxed and fun.

All necessary equipment, including helmets, harnesses, and wetsuits, is provided, which is a huge plus. It means you don’t need to worry about renting or bringing your own gear, and everything is suited for beginners.

The Price and What You Get

At $122 per person, this tour offers a lot in terms of experience and safety. The price covers guides, equipment, a light snack, and free photos of your adventure, which is a nice touch. Many reviews suggest that the guides’ expertise and the memorable scenery justify the cost — especially when you consider that optional lunch and hotel transfers are also available.

Duration and Flexibility

The activity can last between 3.5 and 10 hours, making it flexible for different schedules. Make sure to check availability for specific start times. The tours are small, capped at 10 participants, which means you’ll get attention from your guides and a more personalized experience.

Is It Worth It?

Based on reviews, many find this canyoning trip to be a highlight of their Greece visit. Travelers like Lisa and Travis have praised the guides for their knowledge and warmth, and describe the scenery as stunning. The activity’s mix of adventure and natural beauty makes it appealing for nature lovers and adrenaline enthusiasts alike.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who enjoys physical activity, isn’t afraid of a little water, and wants to see a different side of Greece beyond the beaches and ruins, this is a strong pick. The tour is not suitable for pregnant women, wheelchair users, or those over 260 lbs, but otherwise, it’s accessible for most with moderate fitness.

The Downsides

While the experience sounds fantastic, it’s worth noting that you’ll need to be comfortable with basic swimming and physical exertion. The activity involves some jumping and climbing, so if you’re not up for that, it may not be the best fit. Also, if you’re looking for a very technical or high-adrenaline canyoning experience, this might be more gentle than you want.

Final Thoughts

All in all, this canyoning trip in Manikia Gorge offers a well-balanced blend of fun, safety, and natural beauty. It’s especially attractive if you want a guided experience with knowledgeable instructors, stunning scenery, and the chance to learn new skills like abseiling.

The fact that it’s suitable for beginners and includes all equipment and photos makes it a package that’s hard to beat for an outdoor adventure day from Athens. The small group setting ensures personal attention, and the optional lunch adds a relaxing end to a busy day.

If your trip to Greece includes a day of outdoor activities, and you enjoy a bit of adrenaline mixed with gorgeous views, this could be just what you’re looking for. It’s best suited for active travelers who want to explore beyond the usual tourist spots and aren’t shy about getting wet and climbing around in nature.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts between 3.5 and 10 hours, depending on the specific schedule and options you choose.

What’s included in the price?
The price covers guides, canyoning equipment (helmet, harness, wetsuit), a light snack, and free photos of your adventure.

Is hotel pickup available?
Yes, hotel pickup is an optional extra, making it easier to get to and from the activity.

Do I need prior experience?
No prior canyoning experience is required. The activity is suitable for beginners, with guides providing instructions and support.

What should I bring?
Bring a sun hat, swimwear, change of clothes, a towel, and hiking shoes. Bare feet are not allowed for safety reasons.

Is the tour suitable for children?
The activity is geared towards those with moderate fitness and basic swimming ability. It’s not explicitly recommended for children under a certain age, especially because of physical requirements.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it a flexible option.

Is this experience family-friendly?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, active, physically capable travelers who enjoy outdoor adventures will likely find this a fun and memorable experience.

In the end, this canyoning tour in Manikia Gorge from Athens offers an engaging way to see a less-traveled part of Greece while ticking off a thrilling outdoor activity. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned adventurer, the guides and scenery promise a day full of memorable moments.

You can check availability for your dates here: