Canoeing down the Ardèche gorges with Aigue Vive: everything you need to know

The Ardèche River descent is accessible to everyone, provided that:

• you are at least 7 years old (official regulations)
• you can swim 25 meters and submerge yourself
• you are in good physical condition

The Ardèche River is classified as level 1 to 3 depending on the water level, without major technical difficulties, and features around twenty fun rapids that make the descent so enjoyable.

Mini-descent (5, 8, and 13 km): ideal for a gentle introduction, with a canoe slide on the 5 and 13 km routes, passing under the Pont d'Arc – perfect for families and beginners.

Full-day descent (13 and 24 km): the classic option with a passage under the Pont d'Arc or a route through the nature reserve – a beautiful day of sport and nature on the water.

Full descent (32 or 37 km over 2 days): a fully immersive descent with an overnight stay in the Ardèche Gorges Nature Reserve.

Generally speaking, when choosing your Ardèche descent, consider your fitness level and preferences: swimming breaks, picnics on the river, walks, and the total duration.

If you're looking for a relaxing trip, choose the shorter routes. For an immersive experience, opt for the 2-day trip.

The legendary Pont d'Arc
The limestone cliffs of the gorges within the Nature Reserve
The natural rapids
The canoe slides
The wild beaches for swimming

The price of the trip you book includes:

• Canoe or kayak
• Paddle(s)
• Life jacket
• Wetsuit (depending on the season)
• Waterproof container (driers)

Yes, but the watertightness depends on how well the user closes it.

We strongly recommend protecting your belongings in a plastic bag.

Available volumes: 25, 40, or 55 L depending on the trip
1 container per canoe (day trip)
1 55 L container per person (2 days trip)
Note: For 3-person canoes (with a child in the middle), only 1 container can be attached.

No, helmets are not mandatory in the Ardèche, but we recommend them for children under 12.
We can provide them upon request.

The term "canoe-kayak" is often used generically to refer to all water sports and leisure activities using a paddle.
However, they are actually two different types of boats. To summarize:
Kayak: a single-seater, it can carry one person and a container. It is more maneuverable and faster, but more athletic.
Canoe: a 2- to 3-seater, it can carry two people with two containers, or three people with only one container: the middle seat is typically occupied by a child between 7 and 12 years old. Comfort is not guaranteed for children over 12! It is easier for beginners to handle.

Yes, it is highly recommended from April to September, and essential in summer.

You can book online directly on our website: book your descent. It's the easiest and fastest way for you.

Alternatively, you can book by phone or by coming directly to our base. Even during peak season.

Accepted payment methods are credit card, check, cash, ANCV holiday vouchers, and bank transfer.

You can also book with an Aigue Vive gift card you received: the gift card is valid for prior booking.

Yes, from age 7 and up. The shorter routes are ideal for a first experience.
We also offer guided descents with an instructor/guide from age 5; see our Trapper and Riverside packages.

Yes! We offer rates tailored for families, stag/hen parties, companies or associations.

A quick checklist to help you prepare for your canoe trip down the Ardèche River:

Closed-toe shoes are mandatory.
Water and a picnic lunch (there are no food options in the Nature Reserve).
Organic sunscreen.
Hat or cap.
Sunglasses with a strap.
Towels and a change of clothes.

At our Aigue Vive base, you'll find:
Sunglasses with a strap.
Waterproof pouch.
Water shoes.
Hats.
Dry bag.
Hot/cold drinks.
Ice cream.

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Only the official Gaud or Gournier bivouac sites allow you to spend a night in the heart of the gorges. These must be booked in advance.
You can book the all-inclusive bivouac + canoe package on our website.

You can also book your boat with us and your bivouac ticket directly with the nature reserve.

All the information you need to organize your bivouac trip is available on our dedicated pages for these trips.

Dogs are allowed on the 5, 8, and 13 km trips. They must be able to swim, not be afraid of water, and must not be tied to the canoe.
It is essential to remove their harness/collar during the trip.
Dogs must be kept on a leash at all times during stops. We do not provide life jackets for dogs.

Dogs are prohibited in the nature reserve by prefectural decree. It is not possible to take dogs on trips with overnight camping or on the 24 or 32 km day trips.

After you disembark, our shuttles will take you back to the starting point (where you parked your car). Return shuttles are organized regularly, depending on customer arrivals and bus schedules.
During peak periods, waiting times may occur—we do our best to ensure your comfort.

The Ardèche River generally maintains a navigable flow throughout the season thanks to its natural tributaries and dams.

In the event of significant flooding, some sections may be closed for safety reasons. Navigation conditions are updated regularly before your trip dates. You can also view the river live on the webcam.

Yes! As an option and upon request, we can arrange guided descents led by an experienced professional.
This is an ideal choice for families with young children or anyone wanting expert guidance.

See our guided descents with an instructor

We've been based in Vallon Pont d'Arc since 1987, and our expertise in leading water sports activities is well-established.

We do everything we can to ensure your trip is as enjoyable as possible:

• Modern, top-of-the-line equipment
• Comprehensive briefing for beginners and experts alike
• Courses adapted to all levels
• Return shuttles included
• Family, group, and stag/hen party welcome
• Friendly and welcoming atmosphere