Cascada del Barranco de la Chorrera

This is a photo of Melanie from Vancouver Canada at the base of the waterfall. 

This is a very beautiful waterfall with a large flow of water which comes from the meltwaters of the Sierra Nevada above.  The water is very cold but it can be very refreshing in the summer.  At the time we visited on a Sunday there was a constant stream of people rappeling down the river from the bridge above. The longest descent was to the waterfall. Aparently there are 5 rapels from the bridge which is where they start from. The longest rappel is 15 metres.  It appears that there are professional companies organising canyoning experiences. All the people coming down were wearing wet suits.

There is a recreational area with barbecues, tables, toilets, a fountain with water not far down from the waterfall.  It is possible to drive to this location.  If you are staying in Capileira, Pitres or Portugos this could be a hiking destination. 


What is canyoning?

Canyoning (barranquismo in Spanish) is a type of mountaineering that involves travelling in canyons using a variety of techniques that may include other outdoor activities such as walking, scrambling, climbing, jumping, abseiling (rappelling), and swimming.

Although non-technical descents such as hiking down a canyon (canyon hiking) are often referred to as canyoneering, the terms canyoning and canyoneering are more often associated with technical descents — those that require abseils (rappels) and ropework, technical climbing or down-climbing, technical jumps, and/or technical swims. 

Canyons that are ideal for canyoning are often cut into the bedrock stone, forming narrow gorges with numerous drops, beautifully sculpted walls, and sometimes spectacular waterfalls. Most canyons are cut into limestone, sandstone, granite, or basalt, though other rock types are found. Canyons can be very easy or extremely difficult, though emphasis in the sport is usually on aesthetics and fun rather than pure difficulty. A wide variety of canyoning routes are found throughout the world, and canyoning is enjoyed by people of all ages and skill levels.

Canyoning gear includes climbing hardware, static or semi-static ropes, helmets, wetsuits, and specially designed shoes, packs, and rope bags. While canyoneers have used and adapted climbing, hiking, and river running gear for years, more and more specialized gear is invented and manufactured as canyoning popularity increases.



Get directions from where you are now. Works on smartphones with location active.