6 Best Kayak And Canoe Tours In Porto

Porto’s best paddling adventures cut straight to the heart of northern Portugal’s natural beauty. I especially love the guided Peneda-Gerês National Park tour, combining kayaking with a refreshing hike to a hidden waterfall. The 8-9 hour Paiva River rafting trip delivers pure excitement, while stand-up paddleboarding along the Douro’s quiet beaches offers a more relaxed pace. For a full day of exploration, the lake and waterfall kayak tour showcases pristine waters and expert local knowledge. Let’s look at our favorite water tours that make Porto a paddler’s paradise.

Key Points

• The Kayaking and Waterfall Tour in Peneda-Gerês National Park offers a 10-hour guided tour with 1.5 hours of kayaking and a hike to a hidden waterfall.
• The Paiva River Canoe Rafting Adventure provides an 8-9 hour excursion with 3.5 hours of rafting, led by professional English-fluent guides, and includes roundtrip transport and lunch.
• The Stand-Up-Paddle Tour on Paiva River offers a personalized and flexible tour with all necessary equipment provided, and includes photos and videos of the adventure.
• The Stand-Up Paddle Discovering Desert Beaches of Douro River tour starts at the FC Porto Museum, includes equipment and life jacket, and provides excellent teaching for quick adaptation.
• The Kayak Experience & Gerês Tour is a full-day excursion through serene lakes and notable spots, including visits to Ardo Waterfalls and wolf traps, with a small group format.

Kayaking and Waterfall in Peneda-Gerês National Park From Porto

One popular option for nature lovers visiting Porto is the kayaking and waterfall tour in the stunning Peneda-Gerês National Park.

This 4.9-rated small-group tour takes travelers on a scenic drive from Porto before launching into a 1.5-hour kayaking session on a serene lake. Along the way, guests can swim at a private beach and enjoy a hearty three-course lunch with local wine.

The trip also includes a short hike to a hidden waterfall with crystal-clear waters. With a maximum group size of 28, the knowledgeable guides ensure a fun and memorable experience tailored to the weather conditions.

This tour’s combination of outdoor activities and local cuisine makes it a top recommendation for those seeking adventure in Northern Portugal.

Read our full review: Kayaking and Waterfall in Peneda-Gerês National Park From Porto Review
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From Porto: Paiva River Canoe Rafting Adventure Tour

Visitors to Porto seeking an exhilamatic outdoor adventure can embark on the Paiva River Canoe Rafting tour.

The 8-9 hour excursion costs $89.24 per person and includes roundtrip transportation, rafting, lunch, and a photo report. Participants will be picked up in Porto, driven to the Paiva River, and spend 3.5 hours navigating the river’s rapids.

They’ll enjoy scenic views, access to a riverside beach, and an optional jump into the water. The tour is led by professional, English-fluent guides and includes all necessary equipment.

It’s not suitable for pregnant women, children under 6, or those over 250 lbs. With a 4.9/5 rating from 28 reviews, this adventure offers an exciting way to experience the natural beauty of northern Portugal.

Read our full review: From Porto: Paiva River Canoe Rafting Adventure Tour Review
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Stand-Up-Paddle Tour in Paiva River

For those seeking a more relaxed and scenic water adventure in Porto, the Stand-Up-Paddle Tour on the Paiva River offers an excellent alternative to the Paiva River Canoe Rafting adventure.

This 5-star rated tour allows groups of up to 6 travelers to explore the picturesque Paiva River at their own pace. The tour includes all necessary equipment, instruction, and even photos and videos to capture the experience.

With a maximum capacity and free cancellation policy, this stand-up paddle tour provides a personalized and flexible way to enjoy the beautiful natural surroundings of Porto.

Reviewers have praised the knowledgeable guides, top-notch equipment, and overall relaxing atmosphere of this activity.

Read our full review: Stand-Up-Paddle Tour in Paiva River Review
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From Porto: Peneda-Gerês National Park Kayaking & Waterfall

Travelers seeking a captivating day exploring Peneda-Gerês National Park can embark on a guided tour from Porto that combines kayaking and waterfall discovery.

This 10-hour adventure, limited to just 8 participants, offers a diverse itinerary. After morning kayaking on Caniçada reservoir, guests can swim and relax at the lake beaches.

They’ll then hike to a hidden waterfall for a refreshing dip. Throughout the day, a knowledgeable English-speaking guide provides cultural insights into local villages.

The experience also includes a traditional Portuguese lunch and a Land Rover journey through the stunning national park.

With convenient pickups, flexible booking, and a wealth of positive reviews, this tour is an excellent choice for active travelers.

Read our full review: From Porto: Peneda-Gerês National Park Kayaking & Waterfall Review
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Stand up Paddle Discovering Desert Beaches of Douro River – Pick up Included

Those seeking a unique water-based adventure in Porto can embark on a stand-up paddleboard experience along the Douro River‘s desert beaches.

This private tour offers a personalized and enjoyable outing, with a 5.0-star rating from 11 reviews and 100% traveler recommendation.

For $63.09 per person, you will receive a stand-up paddleboard, paddle, and life jacket, as well as free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

The meeting point is the FC Porto Museum, and the tour isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

With excellent teaching and a quick learning curve, this stand-up paddleboard experience provides an unforgettable way to explore the natural beauty of the Douro River.

Read our full review: Stand up Paddle Discovering Desert Beaches of Douro River – Pick up Included Review
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Kayak Experience & Gerês Tour, From Porto

Adventurers seeking to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding Porto can embark on a captivating full-day kayak excursion and exploration of the Gerês region.

The “Kayak Experience & Gerês Tour” takes guests on a small-group journey through serene lakes, offering stunning scenery and easy hikes to notable spots like the Ardo Waterfalls and wolf traps.

Priced from $144.35 per person, the tour includes kayak equipment, a local guide, lunch, and photos/videos.

Pickup and drop-off are available, and the activity isn’t recommended for those with certain medical conditions.

With a 5.0 rating from 7 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable experience exploring the natural wonders near Porto.

Read our full review: Kayak Experience & Gerês Tour, From Porto Review
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Sum Up

Kayak and canoe tours offer an immersive way to explore Porto’s natural surroundings. From the Peneda-Gerês National Park to the tranquil Paiva River, these experiences provide a chance to discover hidden waterfalls, stand-up paddle along desert beaches, and enjoy the serene beauty of the region. Whether you’re an experienced paddler or a beginner, there’s a tour to suit your interests and skill level.