Porto isn’t just about its historic center and port wine. Just outside the city lie some of Portugal’s most stunning national parks and rugged landscapes. For travelers craving fresh air and wild scenery, the region offers a variety of guided tours, from leisurely walks to adrenaline-pumping canyoning. One standout experience we love is the Waterfall, Lagoon and Old Village in Peneda-Gerês National Park, which combines natural beauty with authentic local culture in a way that feels both adventurous and genuine.
What makes Porto a perfect base for these excursions? Its proximity to Portugal’s only national park, Peneda-Gerês, means you can explore impressive waterfalls, serene lakes, and ancient villages all in a day trip. Whether you’re into gentle hikes or full-body water adventures, the options below highlight the best tours, each with their own unique appeal.
We’ve included a mix of full-day explorations, private custom trips, and active adventures like canyoning and kayaking. All are designed to give you an authentic taste of Portugal’s scenic mountain landscapes and charming villages. Now, let’s dive into each tour and find your perfect match.
1. Waterfall, Lagoon and Old Village in Peneda-Gerês National Park
This tour is more than just a visit; it’s a feeling. For around $116, you get a full-day experience that immerses you in the natural beauty of Peneda-Gerês—Portugal’s only national park. You’ll be picked up in a 4×4 and join a small group, exploring mountain landscapes, swimming in waterfalls and lagoons, and visiting a traditional village. The highlight is the chance to swim in crystal-clear water while enjoying the scenery. The tour includes a local meal with green wine, and participation in a reforestation project adds a meaningful touch. Reviewers praise the thoughtful guide and the peaceful setting, with comments like “This all-day excursion is pleasantly slow and perfect to enjoy nature at your own pace.”
Bottom line: Perfect for those who want a balanced mix of nature, culture, and good food, with a small-group experience that emphasizes local life and ecology.
2. Small Group Peneda Geres National Park Full Day Tour from Porto
At around $116, this small-group tour offers a well-rounded day in Geres, including a visit to the famous Geres Waterfall and insider tips about the area. The journey includes scenic drives past Braga and Povoa de Lanhoso Castle, with the bulk of the day spent exploring trails, swimming in lagoons, and stopping in typical villages. The guide’s knowledge is frequently praised, and the tour includes beautiful photo stops. One reviewer notes, “Every stop was interesting, and the landscape was amazing.” The tour lasts about 9-10 hours and offers great value for those who want a comprehensive experience with a small, friendly group.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers wanting a full, active day with detailed insights and flexibility, especially if you enjoy small-group camaraderie.
3. From Porto: Gerês National Park Canyoning Trip
For around $108, this canyoning adventure is perfect if you’re looking for a physically engaging experience. You’ll spend 6 hours navigating the park’s waterfalls, natural chutes, and river channels. The trip includes abseiling, ziplining, and swimming—suitable for beginners with proper gear and guidance. Guides are highly praised for their professionalism and enthusiasm, making it easy to feel safe and have fun. Several reviews mention how exhilarating and well-organized the trip is, with guides taking great photos of the group. It’s suitable for active travelers who enjoy water sports and don’t mind a bit of a splash.
Bottom line: A great choice for adventure seekers eager to try canyoning with expert guides and a focus on safety and fun.
4. Kayaking and Waterfall in Peneda-Gerês National Park from Porto
Starting at just over $121, this tour combines kayaking, swimming, and a scenic walk to a hidden waterfall. The day kicks off with a beginner-friendly kayak session on Canicada Lake, followed by a visit to a local restaurant for a traditional meal. The highlight is the easy hike to a crystal-clear waterfall—ideal for swimming and relaxing. Reviewers love the mix of water activities and cultural insights, praising the guide’s friendliness and the beautiful landscapes. This tour is perfect for active travelers who want a full day of paddling, nature, and local flavor.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who enjoy water sports and want to combine adventure with culture.
5. Porto: Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Kayaking & Lunch
At about $119, this full-day tour offers an engaging mix of kayaking, hikes, and a traditional Portuguese lunch. You’ll paddle on the park’s lakes, visit waterfalls, and explore a charming village. The tour includes a land rover experience for extra sightseeing. Reviewers mention the delicious homemade lunch and the flexibility of the guide. It’s well-suited for active travelers who want to see diverse landscapes and learn about local traditions while enjoying plenty of water-based activities.
Bottom line: A balanced option for those who want a mix of outdoor activities and cultural experiences in one day.
6. Private Geres National Park Tour
For $267, this private tour offers a fully personalized experience. You’ll be transported in a private vehicle, exploring customized routes through Portugal’s only national park. Highlights include ancient agro-pastoral villages, waterfalls, and a picnic lunch at a spectacular viewpoint. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility, mentioning how the guide adapts to interests and physical abilities. This tour is perfect for travelers seeking privacy and a tailored itinerary, especially for families or small groups who want to avoid the crowds.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a private, flexible adventure with expert guidance in the wilderness.
7. Private Tour to Peneda-Gerês National Park, for nature fans
This exclusive experience costs around $243 and is suited for serious nature lovers who want to explore less-traveled parts of the park. It includes visits to Fafião, a traditional village, and the Barroso Eco-Museum, where you’ll learn about local life and customs. The highlight for many is the opportunity to walk along Roman trails and spot local wildlife like eagles and wolves. The guide’s extensive knowledge makes it a rich, educational experience, perfect for those with a keen interest in ecology and local traditions.
Bottom line: Best for travelers who appreciate a quiet, in-depth exploration of Portugal’s natural and cultural heritage.
8. Private / Tailor-Made Experience in Gerês National Park
Costing about $278, this customizable tour is designed to fit your individual interests and fitness level. It includes a private 4×4 pickup, visits to waterfalls and lagoons, and a traditional meal. The guide tailors the trip based on your preferences, making it a flexible option for those with specific ideas or physical considerations. Reviewers highlight the attentive guiding and the ability to adapt the day for maximum enjoyment.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers who want a personalized, exclusive experience in Gerês with full flexibility.
9. From Porto to Peneda-Gerês National Park
This 10-hour trip, costing around $110, combines scenic drives with stops at Ponte de Lima, the oldest town in Portugal, and highlights like Fechas das Barjas waterfalls. You’ll travel in an eco-friendly electric vehicle, making stops for walks and photo opportunities. Reviewers appreciate the smooth ride and varied itinerary, especially the chance to explore both natural and historic sites. It’s ideal for those who want a comprehensive day with a mix of nature, culture, and comfort.
Bottom line: Great for travelers seeking a balanced mix of scenic, historic, and relaxing experiences in one day.
10. Peneda Gerês National Park Tour by 4X4 (with lunch and kayak)
This all-in-one tour, at $109, combines off-road 4×4 adventures, kayaking, and traditional meals. It’s designed to be flexible and adaptable, with activities tailored during the day. Perfect for those who want a full package of adventure and culture, with opportunities to swim, explore waterfalls, and enjoy regional cuisine. Several reviews mention the professionalism and friendliness of the staff, making it a hassle-free way to see Gerês.
Bottom line: Best for travelers wanting a comprehensive, flexible adventure with plenty of variety.
11. From Porto to Gerês Waterfalls with Lunch
At $106, this guided hike takes you through Gerês’ rugged trails toward seven lagoons and waterfalls. The route is of moderate difficulty, perfect for active travelers comfortable with 4 km walks. The tour includes a picnic lunch with fantastic views and is highly rated for its scenic beauty. Reviewers note the “beautiful day” and recommend it for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bottom line: Ideal for energetic travelers eager to hike and swim in Gerês’ stunning water features.
12. Canyonig Geres National Park, from Porto
For $150, this canyoning tour is a full-day thrill ride. It involves ziplining, rappelling, jumping, and natural slides, all led by experienced guides. The tour includes all necessary gear and is suitable for beginners seeking adventure. It promises an action-packed day and places you in areas normally inaccessible, giving a unique perspective of Gerês’ wildest corners. Reviewers praise the professional guidance and the adrenaline rush.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure lovers ready to conquer waterfalls and rushing rivers with expert instructors.
13. Walk in the 7 Lagoons of Gerês National Park with Baths
This quiet, scenic walk costs approximately $78, covering about 9 hours. It features short walks around seven crystal-clear lagoons and waterfalls, where you can swim and relax. The tour begins in Porto, including a hearty breakfast, and promises a peaceful immersion in nature. The reviews say, “The day was beautiful and not to be missed,” making it perfect for nature-loving travelers who enjoy a gentle outdoor experience.
Bottom line: Excellent for those seeking a leisurely day exploring lakes and waterfalls, with plenty of swimming.
14. Canyonig Geres National Park, from Porto
This popular 8-10 hour activity offers ziplining, rappelling, jumps, and swimming in spectacular waterfall pools. The cost is $150, and guides ensure safety for beginners, providing all gear. Several reviews emphasize how fun and professional the experience is, with plenty of photos taken during the day. It’s best for active travelers ready for an adrenaline-filled day in the wild.
Bottom line: A top pick for those seeking a full immersion in Gerês’ rugged, aquatic terrain.
15. From Porto: Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Lunch
Similar to other full-day offerings, this $120 trip features breathtaking waterfalls, lagoons, and traditional villages, plus regional cuisine. Highlights include swimming in pristine waters, interacting with locals, and participating in environmental projects. Reviewers mention the excellent value and tasty meals, making it a balanced choice for active explorers.
Bottom line: Suitable for travelers who want rich scenery combined with cultural and culinary experiences.
How to Choose the Right Tour
Picking a tour depends on your budget, fitness level, and interests. For those who want a full-day adventure that mixes hiking, swimming, and local culture, options like Waterfall, Lagoon and Old Village or Porto: Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Kayaking & Lunch are excellent choices. Active travelers craving water sports or canyoning should consider Canyoning in Gerês or Canyoning Trip from Porto.
If privacy or a customized experience is your goal, the Private Geres National Park Tour or Tailor-Made Experience offers flexibility for small groups or couples.
Lastly, consider your physical fitness and time available. Light hikers will love the 7 lagoons walk, while thrill-seekers might prefer canyoning or kayaking.
Final Thoughts
Porto’s proximity to Geres National Park makes it a fantastic hub for exploring Portugal’s rugged mountain landscapes. Whether you prefer a relaxed day of wildlife watching and village visits or want to ramp up the adrenaline with canyoning or kayaking, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast. Two standout options are the Waterfall, Lagoon and Old Village for a balanced immersion or the Canyoning adventure for full-on excitement.
Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season, to secure your spot on these popular tours. With such diversity, you’re sure to find an experience that leaves you with memories—and maybe some new hiking boots.
