Arouca is a standout destination for outdoor enthusiasts, especially those who crave hiking and trekking in striking environments. Unlike many spots, Arouca offers a blend of wild, pristine landscapes and well-maintained paths that range from exhilarating walks along ancient river gorges to active river treks in protected geopark territory. We’re particularly fond of experiences like walking the Paiva Walkways, which combines stunning scenery with accessible adventure, and river trekking, perfect for those who want to splash around and get their adrenaline going. Both tours showcase the region’s natural beauty, but each has its own flavor that makes it worth considering based on your interests and fitness level. If you’re after a full-day immersive experience, the Leave Porto and go hiking in the Paiva Walkways tour is a fantastic choice, while the River Trekking in Arouca Geopark offers a shorter, more active adventure.
Below, we’ll explore the top two hiking and trekking tours in Arouca, each with its own characteristics and appeal. Whether you’re looking for a scenic walk or a splashy river adventure, you’ll find a memorable experience here.
1. Leave Porto and go hiking in the Paiva Walkways
Starting from Porto, this tour takes you into one of northern Portugal’s most impressive natural sites — the UNESCO Global Geopark of Arouca. The highlight is the 8 km-long Paiva Walkways, which follow the cliffs above the Paiva River and include the iconic zigzag staircases. This walk offers breathtaking views of the river gorge, crystal-clear waters, and lush greenery. The guide organizes the entire day, including transportation, so you can relax and focus on the scenery.
What sets this tour apart is the combination of well-maintained paths and the immersive experience of walking through a UNESCO site. Reviews praise the well-kept trails, courteous guides, and the chance to dip into the Paiva River’s cold waters after the walk. It’s ideal for travelers who enjoy a mix of nature, easy hiking, and a bit of adventure without strenuous climbs. The tour lasts about 8 hours and costs $68 per person, making it good value given the quality of experience and the natural spectacle.
Bottom Line: This is the best pick if you want a full-day adventure with accessible trails, spectacular views, and the chance to swim in pristine waters. It’s perfect for active travelers who want to see the region’s best scenery comfortably.
2. River Trekking in Arouca Geopark
For those seeking a more hands-on, active experience, the River Trekking in Arouca Geopark combines hiking and swimming in one of Europe’s cleanest rivers, the Paiva. The tour lasts around 3 hours and is designed for those who want a bit of fun and physical activity with safety as a priority — all provided with safety gear and guided by local experts.
This adventure involves walking along the river, jumping into the water, swimming, and splashing around in a wild, protected environment. The tour is highly rated at 5/5, with visitors describing it as “recommended” and “classy.” It is best suited for active travelers comfortable with getting wet and those eager to experience the river’s natural state. The price is only $45 per person, making it a budget-friendly option for a half-day of outdoor fun.
What makes this tour unique is the opportunity to swim and jump in the river, making it a memorable, adrenaline-filled adventure. It’s perfect if you want to combine light trekking with a splash of excitement and don’t mind getting a little wet — it truly offers a taste of wild Portugal.
Bottom Line: If you’re after a shorter, energetic experience that combines hiking with river swimming, this river trekking tour offers excellent value and a chance to connect directly with nature.
How to Choose Between These Tours
When deciding between these two adventures, consider your fitness level, interest in water activities, and how long you want to spend outdoors. The Leave Porto and go hiking in the Paiva Walkways offers a more relaxed, scenic walk with the possibility to cool off in the river — perfect if you want to enjoy nature at a comfortable pace. Meanwhile, the River Trekking in Arouca Geopark caters to active travelers looking to splash, jump, and experience the wild side of the Paiva River.
For travelers with limited time or budget, the river trekking provides an adrenaline-filled half-day for just $45. If you’re planning a full day of sightseeing and want a mix of walking, stunning views, and swimming, the walkways tour for $68 is a superb choice. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, as these tours tend to fill up.
Final Thoughts
Arouca’s hiking and trekking options show off Portugal’s rugged beauty in different ways. For a scenic, manageable walk, the Paiva Walkways are hard to beat and make for a memorable full-day outing. If you prefer a shorter, more active experience with plenty of splashes, the river trekking delivers fun and adventure in equal measure. Both tours offer excellent value and unique insights into Portugal’s natural wonders.
Whether you’re a seasoned hiker, an adventure seeker, or simply someone who wants to enjoy Portugal’s outdoors without fuss, these tours are worth planning your trip around. Be sure to book early, especially in summer, and get ready for some of the most striking landscapes Portugal has to offer.
