Babadag canyon: a summer route that goes through the water
In the hottest weeks of summer, walking an open slope feels like a punishment. Canyon routes are the answer: the walls give shade and water runs under your feet.
Babadag canyon is one of the most popular summer routes.
Footwear: the key question on this route
The route runs over rock and through the river. Which means:
- Non-slip soles are essential. A flat sole on wet stone is the most common cause of injury here.
- A closed model. No flip-flops or open sandals: you cannot see the stones under the water and toes get hurt.
- Spare socks. Your feet will get wet. Dry socks for the way back are a small luxury.
The best option is not waterproof footwear but shoes that let water out and dry quickly. Waterproof shoes hold the water inside once it gets in.
Other practical matters
Phone and documents. Bring a small waterproof bag (a zip-lock will do). Stumbling and sitting down in the water is entirely normal in a canyon.
Trekking poles. The best tool for checking the depth of a stone under water. If you have no poles, a solid branch found along the way works too.
Group limit. On this route the group is capped at 15–18 people — moving through a narrow canyon in a large group is both slow and dangerous.
With children
Participants under 18 are accepted when accompanied by a parent or family member. On a water route the rule of not letting go of a child's hand is a serious one: the force of the current is unpredictable even at knee height.
When not to go
The day after rain. Water levels in a canyon can rise within hours, and in narrow passages that is dangerous. If the operator postpones the route because of the weather, that is a sign of professionalism, not a shortcoming.
Other cool summer routes: Qusar, Kuzun–Laza, Qakh, Qochyataq waterfall.
Ready to experience it yourself? See the upcoming departures.
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