Canyoning vs Coasteering


This is a question we often get asked by would-be adventurers.

If you are thinking of heading out on an adventurous activity, but can’t pick between canyoning and coasteering. This is our answer; hopefully it will help you make up your mind.


Don’t know what coasteering is or what canyoning is? Check out our respective articles to hear our full explanation!


Canyoning vs Coasteering | Which is better?

Canyoning and coasteering are similar in the sense that they are both combined rock and water activities that will give you an adrenaline-fuelled day out.  However, each activity is suited to different individuals and groups. Coasteering is a really inclusive adventure that is great if you have a mixed ability group of friends, whereas canyoning requires everyone to jump, slide or abseil, you cannot stop and walk around anything that is scary!

We have broken down canyoning and coasteering into areas that we get most questions about, and given you details about how these factors should influence your choice. Here it is, Canyoning vs Coasteering!


The Factors 

Group Size  – How many people?

Canyoning

We believe that canyoning is better with a slightly smaller group size, anything up to 14 people is ideal. This is because canyoning involves lots of abseiling down waterfalls and jumps into pools, which can only be performed one at a time. Therefore if you have a larger group, there is a little more waiting around for the others on these technical sections. In order to maintain focus on this amazing, exciting and technical adventurous activity, our advice would be to cap the group at around 14 people per session.

Coasteering

Coasteering is great for every sized group! Because we are not in the same enclosed environment as the canyon, we have the flexibility to cater for larger groups by everyone moving through sections at the same time. This therefore allows all group members to remain engaged and focused throughout the activity.

What is better coasteering or canyoning? | Listening to the safety brief | The Shell Bay coasteer | This people will know |
The Shell Bay coasteer

Group type – Stag, Hen, Students, Tourists? Who is this for?

Canyoning

We deliver canyoning for almost everyone! Stag and hen parties on a weekend away to Edinburgh, adult groups touring Scotland and students from around the world. The one thing all the people that we take on canyoning adventures have in common is a sense of adventure, and a desire to step out of their comfort zones. Because canyoning will certainly do that!

Coasteering

Coasteering really is for everyone who is looking to get a little wild on the Scottish coastline. If you a looking to jump off high cliffs and swim through large swell coasteering is for you. However, it is equally accessible for those people that aren’t as interested in jumping off sea cliffs, but are just looking to explore Scotland in a new and exciting way.

Canyoning v coasteering? These girls and guys chose canyoning!
Looking down into the Bruar Falls

Jumps, Jumps, Jumps

Canyoning

People always want to know about jumps! And for good reason, jumps are great. Canyons have jumps; Exciting, atmospheric and amazing jumps. But, canyons also have abseils and natural waterslides that surpass any man-made water park.

The point is this, most canyons have jumps, but canyoning isn’t all about jumping. If you and your friends are really interested in jumping, give us a call and we can take you to an absolute jump-fest of a venue. Just don’t disregard the other amazing features that canyoning adventures have to offer.

Coasteering

Now coasteering has a lot of jumps! Small jumps, tall jumps and jumps that are perfect for a silly salmon or a flying ninja kick. Jumps at our commercial coasteering venues range from 30cm to 10 meters and will not disappoint. It is important to remember that our experienced staff team will coach you as to the correct jumping technique and all jumps are optional, there is always the option to ease yourself into the water.

What is better canyoning or coasteering?
Jumping at Shell Bay | Coasteering

Swimming Ability – Do I need to be able to swim?

Canyoning

Swimming is desirable but by no means essential to canyoning. We often take non-swimmers. Let us know during the booking process and our guides will keep an extra close eye on you.

Coasteering

Equally, we often take non-swimmers coasteering. You will be kitted up in a wetsuit and personal floatation device, so are more buoyant that you can imagine.

Canyoning v Coasteering
Swimming at our favourite coasteering venue near Edinburgh

The Cold – Will I be cold?

Canyoning

Ultimately you are spending the day adventuring down a Scottish river gorge. However, we invest in good equipment that we look after; no rips in the bum or broken zips that let the water in for you. The majority of people finish the canyoning adventure saying that they were much warner than they expected to be and they didn’t think about being cold once.

Coasteering

The majority of groups cannot wait to get into the water once we reach the first beach, and don’t look back! Our wetsuits and wetsuit socks are designed to keep people warm in the Scottish sea.

Wildlife | what will we see?

Canyoning

We canyon at some cool places, some locations are even Sites of Special Scientific Interest for the flora and fauna. However, other than the occasional dipper (rare bird), you are unlikely to see anything more exciting in the canyon.

Coasteering

Coasteering is the activity for the wildlife. It is not uncommon to see seals, porpoises and dolphins playing around you or watching on curiously.

Enjoyment and Adrenaline

Canyoning

If you are looking for a real adventure, canyoning will not disappoint. You will spend the day adventuring down one of the most incredible environments that you can imagine, jumping into clear mountain pools, abseiling down waterfalls and sliding down natural water features. Canyoning is truly Scotland’s ultimate adventure.

Coasteering

Coasteering is an awesome day out adventuring at the seaside, jumping from cliffs, swimming choppy channels and exploring caves. It is the perfect outdoor activity for everyone with a sense of adventure.

Canyoning at the Dollar Fall in Edinburgh
Sliding in to the Dollar Canyon

Conclusion

Canyoning and coasteering are both great adventurous activities and which ever choice you make; you will be having an exciting day. As we have explained in this article, the choice between canyoning and coasteering really comes down to which activity would better suit your group. If you have any questions about which activity would be more suitable for yourself and your friends, give us a call.

Check out our canyoning and coasteering tours from Edinburgh.


MY Adventure and Intrepidus Outdoors are adventure tours and outdoor experience providers, both based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We specialise in private and open canyoningcoasteeringmountain biking and hill walking tours, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland. We are also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people.

If you are looking for additional information about adventures from Edinburgh, we have published a number of blogs:

  • 6 steps to being happy like a Scot here 
  • You’ll never get bored in Edinburgh here 
  • Best Budget Hotels and Hostels Edinburgh here 
  • Hen Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
  • Stag Party Outdoor Adventures Edinburgh Essentials: here
  • SUP, A Buying Guide: here

If you haven’t already seen it, check out the our  Trip AdvisorYoutube channelVisit Scotland page and blog to hear about how others found their outdoor adventures with us! Equally, if there is any gear that you would like us to review, drop us a DM.

Intrepidus Outdoors – Adventures Edinburgh, Scotland!

Intrepidus Outdoors is based in Edinburgh, Scotland and specialises in Outdoor Activities. We are an adventure tourism and outdoor education provider based in Edinburgh. However, we also operate out of Glasgow, East Lothian, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, Tweed ValleyPerth, Fort William, Cairngorm National Park, Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Loch Tay.

We specialise in canyoning, coasteering, mountain biking and hill walking, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland. The experiences that we provide take clients into some of the most exquisite, incredible and extreme environments the UK has to offer. Through our MY Adventure (Edinburgh) brand we are also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people. These expeditions are through the disciplines of hill walking as well as canoeing. 


Mission Statment :

To deliver the highest quality adventurous experiences to entertain, thrill and inspire.


 

Outdoor Activities: Edinburgh & Scotland

Our values reflect those of a business started by a small group of rock climbers and mountain bikers. The experiences that we have had adventuring, and our passion for the outdoors, has led us to choose a lifestyle dedicated to sharing our love for the outdoors with others. The approach that we take to the experiences that we provide, and the business that we run, is that of sustainability, and an unapologetic quest for quality.

For us at Intrepidus Outdoors, we recognise that our experiences kayaking in clean rivers, surfing on unpolluted beaches and climbing frozen waterfalls have contributed to who we are as people. Therefore, protecting the planet so that the next generation of adventurers can have their own experiences, is hugely important for us. We believe that for people, communities and businesses to make the choice to minimise their impact on our planet, they must first value the planet that we have. We feel that the best way for people to value our blue planet, is to have first hand quality experiences in nature. They can then see the beauty of a forest, feel the power of an ocean and learn to love what is outside our towns and cities, so that they then fight to protect them. We strive to through the products that we deliver make a small difference to peoples understanding of the impact that they have on our world.

Our experiences adventuring have made us who we are and Intrepidus Outdoors is a reflection of us. We provide real adventurous experience that we hope you will cherish.


 

Adventure Activities: Edinburgh & Scotland

There are cities where stuff is happening all year round and where you will never get bored. Edinburgh is undoubtedly one of these cities. It’s an extraordinary place, full of history, festivals, impressive architecture and plenty of attractions you won’t find anywhere else. Not to mention that we are located on the door step of so many amazing adventures and outdoor experiences.

We would like to introduce you to this extraordinary city, giving you a full range of possibilities that can be found north of the wall! Edinburgh has a huge dose of beautiful history, world-famous festivals, fantastic attractions, adrenaline fuled expereinces and great food. Edinburgh is calling you and you simply cannot refuse its invitation.

There are a many outdoor and adventurous experiences to be had in Edinburgh. If you are a thrill seeker visiting Edinburgh and interested in a canyoning, coasteering or mountain biking adventure in Scotland, Get In Touch!


Edinburgh, the capital city of Scotland, is a fantastic destination with a rich history, stunning architecture, and a vibrant cultural scene. Here are 11 reasons why Edinburgh is a great city to visit with friends:

  1. Historic Architecture: Edinburgh is known for its historic and impressive architecture. Explore the medieval Old Town, with its narrow alleys and the iconic Edinburgh Castle perched on Castle Rock. The contrasting Georgian New Town offers elegant streets and squares.

  2. Edinburgh Castle: Dominating the city’s skyline, Edinburgh Castle is a must-visit. Explore the various sections of the castle, learn about its history, and enjoy panoramic views of the city from its vantage points.

  3. Royal Mile: The Royal Mile is the main street of the Old Town, running from Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. It’s lined with shops, pubs, and street performers, making it a lively and entertaining stroll.

  4. Festivals: Edinburgh is famous for its festivals, including the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, the world’s largest arts festival. If you visit during August, you’ll be treated to a vibrant atmosphere with countless performances, events, and shows.

  5. Scenic Views: Climb Arthur’s Seat, an extinct volcano located in Holyrood Park, for breathtaking panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. It’s a great place for a hike or a picnic with friends.

  6. Cultural Museums: Edinburgh boasts several excellent museums, including the National Museum of Scotland, the Museum of Edinburgh, and the Scottish National Gallery. These institutions offer a diverse range of exhibits, from art and history to science and technology.

  7. Whisky Tasting: Scotland is renowned for its whisky, and Edinburgh is a great place to sample some of the finest Scotch whiskies. Explore local pubs and whisky bars to experience the rich and varied world of Scottish spirits.

  8. Haunted History: Edinburgh is known for its haunted history, and there are various ghost tours that take you through the city’s spookiest spots. It’s a fun and eerie way to learn about the darker side of Edinburgh’s past.

  9. Dynamic Arts Scene: The city has a vibrant arts scene, with numerous theaters, galleries, and performance spaces. Whether you’re into traditional or contemporary arts, you’re likely to find something that suits your tastes.

  10. Friendly Atmosphere: Scots are known for their friendliness, and you’ll likely find the welcoming atmosphere extends to the city itself. The friendly locals and the convivial ambiance of Edinburgh make it an excellent destination for a memorable trip with friends.

  11. Outdoor Activities on your Doorstep: Edinburgh is on the edge of the Pentland Hills, Ochil Hills, East Lothian, the East Neuk of Fife and a hour and a half drive from the Cairngorm National Park. We deliver outdoor adventures, activities and exciting pursuits to all of these amazing locations. 

Outdoor Adventures Scotland.

We operate out of Edinburgh, Glasgow, East Lothian, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, Tweed ValleyPerth, Fort William, Cairngorm National Park, Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Loch Tay.

It’s no secret that Scotland is one of the most beautiful countries in the world. From the rural coastlines to vast mountain ranges, we have it all. Whatever kind of experience you’re after you’re sure to find it here, so we’ve put together an adventurer’s guide to Scotland to help get you started. Our guide breaks down all the outdoor activities Edinburgh has to offer and many more adventures to keep you entertained on your holiday.

Scotland’s allure for outdoor adventures is rooted in its unparalleled natural beauty and diverse landscapes. From the rugged peaks of the Scottish Highlands to the tranquil shores of its countless lochs, the country provides a stunning backdrop for a myriad of outdoor activities. Hikers can traverse historic trails like the West Highland Way, while mountaineers are drawn to the challenge of scaling iconic peaks such as Ben Nevis. The expansive coastline and intricate network of rivers offer opportunities for water enthusiasts, from thrilling white-water rafting to peaceful kayaking. Scotland’s commitment to preserving its wilderness allows for accessible exploration, inviting both seasoned adventurers and casual nature lovers alike. With a rich cultural heritage woven into its landscapes, including ancient castles and historic sites, Scotland stands as an exceptional destination for those seeking not just outdoor excitement, but a profound connection with the untamed beauty of the natural world.

Moreover, Scotland’s outdoor appeal extends to its diverse range of activities, accommodating adventurers with varying interests and skill levels. Cyclists can navigate scenic routes, taking in the breathtaking views of rolling hills and coastal panoramas. As winter blankets the land, the Cairngorms and Glencoe transform into playgrounds for skiers and snowboarders, offering a thrilling winter sports experience. Wildlife enthusiasts find solace in the country’s natural habitats, where red deer roam freely, eagles soar overhead, and seals bask along the rugged shoreline. The proximity of Edinburgh, the capital city, further enhances the Scottish adventure, providing a seamless transition from urban exploration to the untamed wonders that lie just beyond its borders. In every season, Scotland’s outdoor wonders beckon, promising a tapestry of experiences that blend natural splendor with a rich tapestry of history and culture.

MY Adventure and Intrepidus Outdoors are adventure tours and outdoor experience providers, both based in Edinburgh, Scotland. We specialise in private and open canyoningcoasteeringmountain biking and hill walking tours, and deliver these adventurous experiences across Scotland. We are also a provider of the Duke of Edinburgh Award Expeditions where we run bronze, silver and gold level awards for young people.

If you are looking for additional information about adventures from Edinburgh, we have published a number of blogs:

  • Welcome to Edinburgh- A guide to the Scottish Capital: here
  • 6 steps to being happy like a Scot: here 
  • Adventures guide to Scotland: here
  • You’ll never get bored in Edinburgh: here 
  • Best Budget Hotels and Hostels Edinburgh: here 
  • Hen Party Adventures Edinburgh: here
  • Stag Party Outdoor Adventures Edinburgh Essentials: here
  • Best Restaurants in Edinburgh: here

If you haven’t already seen it, check out the our  Trip AdvisorYoutube channelVisit Scotland page and blog to hear about how others found their outdoor adventures with us! Equally, if there is any gear that you would like us to review, drop us a DM.

Here is a list of our Frequently Asked Questions about Outdoor Adventures from Edinburgh!

What are the best outdoor activities in and around Edinburgh?

Canyoning, Coasteering, Mountain Biking, Hiking, Canoeing and Rock Climbing!

Is Edinburgh a good venue for adventures?

Edinburgh is on the doorstep of incredible locations for outdoor adventures. Only a short minibus ride and you are in world class venues for coasteering, canyoning, mountain biking and hiking.

Are your adventures suitable for beginners?

Yes. Our outdoor adventures are great for everyone!

Do you provide all the equipment?

We provide all technical equipment for your outdoor adventures with us. This includes canyoning and coasteering boots!

Is Edinburgh good to visit?

Yes. Edinburgh is a fantastic city to visit, offering a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty.

Is Edinburgh expensive?

If you live in the south of England, No. If you live in the Midlands or the North of England, Yes.

How much is a pint in Edinburgh?

Between £4 and £6

Do you collect us from our hotel for adventure tours?

Yes. On our private adventure tours we collect clients from their hotels.

Where do you collect open group tours from?

Edinburgh Waverley Train Station – The Market Street Entrance.

What is the age range of your adventures?

Open groups 14+. Private groups all ages!

How extreme are your outdoor adventure tours?

Canyoning and coasteering has jumps up to 10meters and the canyoning has waterfall abseiling uptimes 17 meters. So you tell us?!

How much are your adventure tours?

Days trips from £95 per person including transport.

What is the most popular outdoor adventure from Edinburgh?

Canyoning. People LOVE canyoning. We also love canyoning!

Do you take pictures?

Yes. All instructors will take pictures with their iPhones and GoPro’s. They will send them to you after the adventure.

What is your favourite outdoor activity?

Our team like lots of different adventures! Some like the extreme trips like canoeing while others like the more mellow tours like canoeing.

How are your trip advisor review so good?

We aim the exceed the expectations of our clients on all our outdoor adventure tours from Edinburgh!

Where do you run adventure tours from?

We operate out of Edinburgh, Glasgow, East Lothian, Midlothian, Scottish Borders, Tweed Valley, Perth, Fort William, Bruar, Dollar, Alva, Cairngorm National Park, Pitlochry, Aberfeldy and Loch Tay.  .

What are your group sizes for private outdoor adventure tours?

Between 8 and 80!

Do you provide transport for your outdoors experiences?

Yes! We have a National Operators License to operate our own fleet of 17 seater minibuses.

Who is the best adventure tour provider in Edinburgh?

With over 350 5star TripAdvisor reviews the Intrepidus team aims to exceed our customers expectations in every trip!

What provider runs the best outdoor experiences in Scotland?

Intrepidus Outdoors run canyoning, coasteering and hiking almost every day and we have over 350 5star TripAdvisor reviews!

Location


Unit 2/2
Edlin Industrial Estate
Edgefield Road
Loanhead
EH20 9QX

Contact


Phone: 0131 357 1990
Email: info@intrepidusoutdoors.co.uk

Opening hours


Mon - Fri
8:00 to 18:30
Sat & Sun
8.30 to 19.30