Water trekking: what it is and where to do it in Italy

In recent years, the world of trekking has been enriched with ever new and engaging activities. Lately we have heard about bike trekking, sea trekking, emotional trekking and even train trekking, but… Have you ever tried water trekking?

This activity is certainly perfect for those who love to do hiking in a different way than usual, the ideal choice for those who love spending their free time outdoors, establishing authentic contact with nature.

But exactly what is water trekking? And who can carry out this exciting activity?

What is water trekking?

This term indicates a form of hiking outside the box, an activity that consists of go up rivers and streamsed explore gorges and canyonsequipped with special equipment and guided by expert people (river guides) who will help you discover and fully savor all the beauties of the area.

For some years now, aquatrekking – better known as trekking fluviale o river trekking – represents one of the most successful activities of the summer and spring seasons. A whole new way to admire the wonders of Mother Nature up close.

But be careful: you shouldn’t confuse aquatrekking with water trekking. While the first is an outdoor activity, a form of aquatic hiking (if we want to define it that way), water trekking is instead a sort of walking on a treadmill in watera sport that takes place in a swimming pool. Therefore, the two activities have nothing in common, except for the “water” element.

But going back to river trekking, what equipment will we need to be able to venture into this activity?

And is it really a sport within everyone’s reach?

Who can do water trekking?

Generally speaking, water trekking is suitable for adults and children older than at least 3 years.

Anyone who wants to try their hand at this activity, however, should have one good physical shape and a good state of health. It goes without saying that some routes will be simpler and others more complex, so we always recommend choosing the activities best suited to your level of training.

What matters is that hikers are always accompanied by a trained guide, and – naturally – that they wear the most suitable equipment.

And in this regard, let’s see what you need to wear for water trekking.

Water trekking equipment: what to wear?

L’basic clothing it’s very simple: usually, guides recommend wearing shoes trekking shoes water resistant and suitable for walking on wet paths, a swimming suit and gods comfortable clothes.

As far as the actual equipment is concerned, however, you will be provided with special equipment aquatrekking suit equipped with non-slip boots (the so-called S.A.W. – Suit Acquatrekking Waterproof), thanks to which you will be able to navigate the waterways in complete safety.

Where to do water trekking in Italy?

Our country offers an innumerable quantity of suggestive routes for river trekking: streams, mountain rivers and extraordinary waterways, where you can carry out this suggestive and unforgettable activity.

From North to South, there are dozens of routes you could explore together with guides.

Among all, for example, the Pollino National Park stands out. You can also do water trekking in Sardiniawhere you will discover an infinite number of uncontaminated places to explore. In Laziowater trekking in the Farfa Gorges represents one of the favorite activities of hikers and eco-tourists, while in Sicily you can venture out to discover the suggestive ones Alcantara Gorges.

Of course, it is always good to remember this, a bit like when we snorkel, when we visit natural areas we must always pay maximum attention to where we put our feet. Avoid disturbing local wildlife, do not detach or destroy plants or stones, do not touch wild animals, do not leave waste around, and enjoy this experience in the most respectful and sustainable way possible.