Chimiachas is one of the bigger tributaries to flow into the River Vero; it joins the larger river from the right-hand side of the canyon at a place known as La Cocineta.  The beginning of the descent is in a lightly wooded environment, but this changes as the canyon gets narrower.  At La Cocineta, where the two rivers merge, the canyon is almost impassable; however a small fissure provides the perfect point to abseil down the rock face.

This is a difficult and technical canyon, with very little water.  It is demanding and its relative inaccessibility means that a full day is needed to explore it.  However, it is, without doubt, worth the effort as it is one of the most spectacular canyons of the area.

This canyon is only suitable for people in peak physical condition and with a lot of experience of different abseiling techniques.

Technical information

Approach:

  • 2 ½ hours from Alquézar (passing by Basacol and Quizans)
  • 2 hours if the car is left on the track between San Pelegrin and the Meson de Sevil at the fork that goes directly up to Quizáns.  There is a path marked with small rocks.
  • Both paths lead to the top of the hill and from there just follow the signs for the path to the “Ciervo de Chimiachas” (the deer painting) and then to the river in the depths of the canyon.

Descent: 3 - 4 horas    KM: 450m

Return:

  • 2 hours, if following the path that leaves from Gran Visera       
  • 4 hours if descending the River Vero.  Particular care is needed in rainy periods and the level of the river level should be checked carefully before commencing the descent.

Escape routes: After the first rappel, the only escape route of the descent is at Paso de los Articazos, which climbs up to Pasolen and Quizáns.

Car combination: No extra cars required if returning on foot to Alquézar.

Difficulty level: High level throughout the year and the use of a professional guide is highly recommended.

Minimum equipment requirements

  • Helmet
  • Harness
  • Anchoring sling
  • Ropes
  • Equipment for abseiling (figure-of-eight descender)
  • 2 ropes of at least 50m in length.
  • Rope clamp (such as Shunt)
  • Full wetsuit and neoprene socks or canyoning shoes if returning along the River Vero.  

Points of interest