A THRILLING ADVENTURE
Canyon of the Angosturas
The Canyon of the Angosturas or Cañón de las Angosturas is a true hidden gem tucked away in the heart of the Sierra de las Nieves in Benahavís. It's a place where rugged cliffs meet clear waters, where lush vegetation thrives, and where adventure awaits at every turn. It's a paradise for those of us who love to get our adrenaline pumping and immerse ourselves in the beauty of nature.
About the Canyon of the Angosturas
The Canyon of the Angosturas in Marbella, popularly known as the Benahavís River Walk, is a doorway to the mesmerizing Spanish outdoors. This adventure uniquely combines hiking and swimming amidst a breathtaking river landscape. As you navigate through the Canyon of the Angosturas, expect a variety of terrains: intriguing caves, challenging slopes, deep waters, majestic cliffs, and the occasional loose stone. The trail, while demanding, is accessible, covering 3 kilometers and typically taking between 2 to 3 hours to complete. Suitable for ages 8 to 65, the canyon stands out as an excellent choice for families and adventure seekers.
Safety precautions
If you're planning to go into the Canyon of the Angosturas on your own, there are some preparations you need to do. At its entrance, informative signs detail vital safety precautions. Those new to the experience are advised to have prior canyoning knowledge and be prepared for emergencies.
The two primary concerns for the area are navigating slippery stones and the rare occurrence of rockfalls. Throughout the trail, you will encounter slippery terrains and you must wear water shoes with good grip. The local municipality of Benahavís also recommends the use of safety helmets. In the low season, it is not advised to enter the canyon without proper wetsuits, as the water temperatures drop and it can get quite chilly in the canyon. It is important to note that once you start the trail, there is no possibility to exit midway. You will either have to finish the full trail or go back to the start.
Despite these risks and safety precautions, the canyon or 'Benahavís River Walk' is a very doable trail for almost everyone and an enjoyable experience. If it's your first time and you prefer to play it safe, you can book a guided tour through the Canyon of the Angosturas, where an experienced English-speaking guide will provide essential safety equipment and aid through the challenging terrains.
Wildlife and flora of the Angosturas Canyon
The biodiversity within the Canyon of the Angosturas is rich and varied. As you navigate through:
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Fauna: As you journey, keep an eye out for the nimble geckos, fluttering butterflies, majestic Ibex, gentle turtles, lively frogs, elusive salamanders, and various species of fish that call this canyon home.
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Flora: The landscape of the Canyon of the Angosturas is not just about rugged cliffs and pristine waters. Alongside, it's dotted with a variety of plant life. Especially intriguing are the edible plants and the abundant wild mint that gives off a refreshing scent.
Personal experience
Below, we're thrilled to share a firsthand account of the Canyon of the Angosturas experience. Joyce, the travel blogger behind Marbella Travel Guide, joined us for a guided tour last year. Dive in to relive her journey!
My curiosity about the Benahavís River Walk piqued when I stumbled upon it online. Without hesitation, I booked my spot with Marbella Adventures. For a newbie like me, the thought of being accompanied by someone well-acquainted with the locale was truly comforting.
For just €35 per person, the package was quite the deal! It encompassed a 3-hour guided tour, safety equipment, and even an option to borrow water shoes at no extra cost. Refreshments awaited us at the end. It's a great venture for anyone aged 8 and above, as long as you're physically agile and can swim on your own. If you're considering this, I'd recommend planning between May and September when the water's temperature feels just right.
My day was nothing short of exhilarating! The journey commenced with an uphill trek from a designated parking spot, leading to the river's edge. Here, a thorough safety briefing set the tone for what was to follow.
The day was a mix of swimming, wading through gentle waters, clambering over rocks, and soaking in the majestic beauty around. I even mustered the courage for a few cliff jumps and swam in some extraordinary pools, including an enchanting cave. The grand finale? Navigating a dam using a rope to glide down its slick rocks. Truly, an adventure to remember!