A short, playful canyon run on the Iannello stream in Pollino National Park—2.5 km of jumps, slides and two guided abseils. Small groups and guided gear make this an accessible introduction to canyoning in Calabria.
A short, playful canyon run on the Iannello stream in Pollino National Park—2.5 km of jumps, slides and two guided abseils. Small groups and guided gear make this an accessible introduction to canyoning in Calabria.
A cool breath of mountain water meets the sun as a small group steps into the Iannello stream, where a concentrated series of jumps, slides and short waterfalls carve a playful path through limestone. Over about 2.5 km the canyon tightens, opens and surprises: clear plunge pools that dare you, narrow runs that push the current beneath your feet, and two short waterfall abseils lowered by guides.
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by Lao Rafting · Laino Borgo, Calabria
A cool breath of mountain water meets the sun as a small group steps into the Iannello stream, where a concentrated series of jumps, slides and short waterfalls carve a playful path through limestone. Over about 2.5 km the canyon tightens, opens and surprises: clear plunge pools that dare you, narrow runs that push the current beneath your feet, and two short waterfall abseils lowered by guides.
Pollino National Park sits on the spine between Calabria and Basilicata, its geology shaped by Apennine uplift and karst erosion. The Iannello run is young water on old rock—channels, potholes and natural chutes cut into dolomite and limestone—while nearby hill towns like Laino Borgo reflect a rural mountain culture tied to river routes and shepherding.
Practically, the route is short and energetic: 2.5 km, 105 m of descent, and a guided three-hour window that includes instruction, gear fitting and safety briefings. The operator provides wetsuit, boots, helmet and harness; participants jump, slide and abseil twice under supervised rope systems. Best run May–September when flows are safe and water temperatures are manageable.
For planning: arrive in synthetic layers you can move in, hydrate before entering cold water, and secure a dry bag for phones. Expect a small-group rhythm (max six) where the guide sets pace and safety; ability requirements are low, but those with spinal, heart or pregnancy concerns should sit this one out. It’s an accessible, playful canyoning taste of Pollino’s wild river corridors.
easy.
3 hours.
Suitable for people in general good health with basic mobility; no advanced fitness required but comfortable walking and basic swimming ability help.
No prior experience is required; guides provide step-by-step instruction and handle rope systems for the two short abseils.
The operator asks for participant ages at booking and lists restrictions: not recommended for pregnant travelers, those with spinal injuries or serious heart conditions—check with the operator if in doubt.
The tour is about 3 hours total for a 2.5 km canyon section with 105 m descent; equipment (wetsuit, boots, helmet, harness) and private transport are included per the booking details.
You can bring them but protect them in a waterproof case or dry bag; guides may advise leaving valuables on shore during certain jumps for safety.
Pollino National Park was created in the early 1990s to protect a stretch of the southern Apennines; the park preserves traditional mountain communities and distinct alpine flora like ancient Bosnian pines.
Flows and pools are sensitive to litter and rope anchors; follow guide instructions, pack out waste, and avoid altering rock or vegetation to protect the canyon environment.
Lao Rafting operates guided outdoor trips and adventures with an emphasis on safety, stewardship, and memorable experiences.




A cool breath of mountain water meets the sun as a small group steps into the Iannello stream, where a concentrated series of jumps, slides and short waterfalls carve a playful path through limestone. Over about 2.5 km the canyon tightens, opens and surprises: clear plunge pools that dare you, narrow runs that push the current beneath your feet, and two short waterfall abseils lowered by guides.
A cool breath of mountain water meets the sun as a small group steps into the Iannello stream, where a concentrated series of jumps, slides and short waterfalls carve a playful path through limestone. Over about 2.5 km the canyon tightens, opens and surprises: clear plunge pools that dare you, narrow runs that push the current beneath your feet, and two short waterfall abseils lowered by guides.
Pollino National Park sits on the spine between Calabria and Basilicata, its geology shaped by Apennine uplift and karst erosion. The Iannello run is young water on old rock—channels, potholes and natural chutes cut into dolomite and limestone—while nearby hill towns like Laino Borgo reflect a rural mountain culture tied to river routes and shepherding.
Practically, the route is short and energetic: 2.5 km, 105 m of descent, and a guided three-hour window that includes instruction, gear fitting and safety briefings. The operator provides wetsuit, boots, helmet and harness; participants jump, slide and abseil twice under supervised rope systems. Best run May–September when flows are safe and water temperatures are manageable.
For planning: arrive in synthetic layers you can move in, hydrate before entering cold water, and secure a dry bag for phones. Expect a small-group rhythm (max six) where the guide sets pace and safety; ability requirements are low, but those with spinal, heart or pregnancy concerns should sit this one out. It’s an accessible, playful canyoning taste of Pollino’s wild river corridors.