Canyoning through Nevidio Canyon near Šavnik

Nevidio is a slot canyon cut by the Komarnica river on the edge of the Durmitor massif near Šavnik, so narrow and deep in places that daylight barely reaches the water. Its name means roughly “the unseen”, and it was not passed from end to end until 1965. A descent with guides takes you through the heart of it on foot, by swimming and on the rope.

What you’ll see

The walls close in quickly, polished smooth by water and glowing green where light slips down from above. Between the narrows the river opens into emerald pools, and the rock forms natural chutes that you ride feet first. Waterfalls step the canyon down, and some of them you abseil, with the noise of the water filling the gorge. For much of the descent you are in the river rather than beside it, which is what makes Nevidio feel so different from a walk along a gorge.

• Emerald pools to swim between the narrows
• Natural slides and jumps into deep water
• Waterfall abseils with your guides

How it runs

The descent runs to around six hours with certified guides. A wetsuit, helmet and harness are provided, with the rest of the safety equipment, and a snack, water and insurance are included. The listing does not give a meeting point, so confirm it with the host when you enquire; transport to Šavnik is not included. A booking takes up to eight guests.

Who it suits

Confident swimmers who are happy to jump and abseil with guidance, and who would rather spend a day inside a canyon than look down into one. Expect to be wet from the first pool to the last, and to finish tired and very hungry.

Good to know

The water comes from the mountains and stays cold even in high summer, so the wetsuit earns its place. Bring your own swimwear and shoes that can get soaked, as neither is supplied. The canyon can only be descended when the water level allows, which usually means the drier summer months, so ask the host about your dates.