What are Canyoning and Cascading?

They are the hottest form of adventure travel today. They give Mother Nature a chance to look you square in the eyes, and say, "Let's see what you have got!"

Canyoning, frequently referred to as "Canyoneering" in the United States, was largely unknown to outdoor enthusiasts until the 1990's. In its simplest form, canyoning is about doing whatever it takes to get from Point A to Point B. A more specific description would be: hiking, climbing, swimming, jumping and rappelling to the bottom of a river canyon, then following that canyon or riverbed to a logical (or the easiest) exit point. While canyoning can be done anywhere with suitable and challenging terrain, the programs we are currently offering take place in the Cordillera Septentrional, the most northern of the DR's 5 mountain ranges.

For our purposes, we use the term "Canyoning" to refer to tours described above in which participants use various types of safety equipment to get from Point A to point B. This equipment generally includes a helmet, seat and chest harness, wet suit (for the chillier spring water and against "Belly Flop Syndrome"), a belay device (figure-8), carabiners, and 12mm static ropes for protection.

In Iguana Mama vocabulary, Cascading refers to our canyoning tours where no equipment is used beyond common sense and the occasional rope. The Damajagua area, where we go for Cascading Adventure, is unique in that it features more than a dozen cascades and waterfalls from 0.5 to 15 meters tall over a relatively short distance. Damajagua also has the advantage of being an "In-and-Out" hike. That is, we hike, jump, and slide down the same path that we hike, climb, and swim up. This allows a guest who encounters an adventure obstacle beyond their mental or physical abilities to take a rest while the group continues on. Rested and ready for more, the guest jumps back in with the group on the way down. Previous experience is not necessary for our Cascading Adventures.

Which is more difficult, Canyoning or Cascading?

Both activities have their challenging and exciting moments... some say every moment. In general, Canyoning is more intense and requires that you be in a little better shape due to the distance covered over the course of the tour. If you just can't decide, do all 3 of our offered trips! A different canyon is featured in each one.

Which possibilities do Iguanas offer you?

Iguana Mama offers you 2 different possibilities for Canyoning and Cascading adventures close to the North Coast of the Dominican Republic: