Welcome to the website of the Canyoning Association of Slovenia (SOZS), one of the leading organisations in Slovenia and Europe dedicated to the advancement of canyoning through education, safety standards and environmental care. Since our foundation in 2004, we have been working to raise the level of knowledge and skills of both professional guides and amateur canyoneers, and to create a community based on respect for nature and safety.

​

In our early years, we operated under the umbrella of the CIC (Commission Internationale de Canyon), which is the organisation with the oldest training programme for canyon guides in the world, and since 2015 we have been providing independent training in Slovenia, Bosnia and Montenegro. Today, SOZS offers a comprehensive training system led by internationally certified instructors whose desire is to pass on the knowledge of years of experience in the field of canyoning, and to train professional guides ready to guide a canyon of any difficulty, and above all to train guides who are safe and responsible.

 

Our mission goes beyond training; we are also committed to safety and conservation in the canyon community. As canyoning in Slovenia - one of Europe's leading destinations for the sport - grows in popularity, SOZS works closely with local organisations, government agencies and the Triglav National Park to jointly promote safe and environmentally responsible practices. Although canyoning is still not regulated in Slovenia, we are working to introduce standards that will protect public safety and preserve Slovenia's natural beauty.

​​​

The scope of work of SOZS covers several key areas:​

 

• Training and certification: we offer multi-level courses for all levels of knowledge, from beginners to those seeking professional certification. Our courses cover technical canyoning skills, emergency rescue procedures, group leadership, meteorology and sustainable guiding practices, etc. ensuring that participants are well prepared for the challenges of canyoning.

​

• Regulation and safety: We develop safety protocols and guidelines that protect both participants and the environment. We work to introduce government regulations that will enhance public safety and promote sustainable practices.

​

• Conservation and care for the environment: SOZS is committed to preserving the natural beauty of Slovenia. Through clean-up campaigns, cooperation with environmental organisations and educational campaigns, we strive to preserve the canyons for future generations.

​

• ​Community and promotion: Through workshops, seminars and events, we strengthen a vibrant canyoning community and introduce the sport to the wider public. We aim to educate both novice and experienced canyoners on best practices in safety, conservation and risk management.

​​​

SOZS is more than just an association; we are a community of canyoneers who believe in the power of nature, the importance of safety and the responsibility we have to protect the landscapes we explore. Join us as we continue to shape the future of canyoning in Slovenia.

​​

President of the Canyoning Association of Slovenia,

 

Samo Leštan