Peneda Geres National Park stands out as Portugal’s only designated national park, famous for its rugged mountains, lush forests, shimmering lakes, and a surprising abundance of wildlife. Unlike many natural preserves, Gerês offers a wide range of tours that cater to different interests—whether you’re into hiking, water activities, or off-road adventures. We’re particularly fond of the hike and swim tours, which combine scenic walking with the thrill of cooling off in crystal-clear pools. Imagine trekking through forests, then taking a refreshing plunge in natural waters—this is what makes Gerês special.
The variety of experiences below highlights everything from guided walking tours and adventurous buggy rides to canyoning and private boat trips. Many tours feature local guides with deep knowledge, authentic Portuguese cuisine, and superb scenery—ensuring you see the park from multiple angles. Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning an extended stay, these tours will give you an authentic taste of Gerês’ rugged beauty.
In this guide, we’ll explore eleven of the best tours in Peneda Geres National Park. Whether you’re after an active adventure, a relaxing scenic drive, or a culture, there’s something here for you. To make your decision easier, we’ve included practical details, reviews, and highlights for each one, so you can pick the perfect experience.
1. From Porto: Hike & Swim in Gerês National Park
For those coming from Porto, this full-day hike and swim tour offers a perfect balance of adventure and relaxation. The tour includes a 10-kilometer trek into the heart of Gerês, showcasing stunning vistas and waterfalls along the way. After the hike, you’ll have the chance to swim in one of the park’s natural pools—ideal from June through September when waters are warmest. The tour begins at a central Porto location, with a scenic 105-minute van ride into the park.
What makes this experience stand out is the combination of guided hiking and leisure swimming. The guide shares insights on local flora and fauna, enriching your natural immersion. The highlight, of course, is the swim in clear waters that seem to be straight from a postcard. This tour is rated 4.8/5 from 446 reviews, reflecting its popularity and value.
Bottom line: Perfect for active travelers who want a taste of Gerês’ waterfalls and a refreshing swim, all within a manageable nine-and-a-half-hour day.
2. Arcos de Valdevez & Peneda-Gerês Guided Buggy Ride
Looking for a fun, fast-paced way to see Gerês? This guided buggy ride puts you behind the wheel for a 1-hour adventure through mountain and forest terrain. Starting from Arcos de Valdevez, you’ll drive a 2-seat or 4-seat buggy through the landscape, with the driver (you or your companion) in charge. The guided tour offers sweeping views of the park and the chance to spot local wildlife.
What makes this tour special is the hands-on experience—you’re the driver, not just a passenger. Reviewers praise the “great activity” with “beautiful scenery” and the ability to see the park from a different perspective. It’s a hit with those seeking an adrenaline boost and some authentic off-road fun.
Bottom line: Great for thrill-seekers and families who want a quick, exhilarating glimpse of the park’s wild side without extensive hiking.
3. Porto: Swimming, Hiking, Picnic in Gerês National Park
This full-day adventure tour from Porto combines hiking, swimming, and a picnic in the stunning landscapes of Gerês. Starting at a central Porto location, you’re transported for two hours into the park, where you’ll enjoy guided hikes and swim in the seven lagoons—a highlight for water lovers. The tour emphasizes authentic Portuguese food, with a homemade picnic and local delicacies included.
Rated 5/5 from 11 reviews, this tour stands out for its seamless blend of outdoor activity and culinary experience. The guide, Mikael, keeps the pace just right and shares insights about the scenery and local culture. Guests rave about the “delicious homemade lunch” and the manageable hikes that aren’t too strenuous.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers who want a comprehensive day of active sightseeing combined with authentic food and scenic swimming spots.
4. Gerês National Park Waterfalls and Wolf Village in 4×4
For a truly off-road experience, this 4×4 tour offers an exhilarating ride through dense forests and along rivers, highlighting the park’s waterfalls and wildlife. This 7-hour adventure includes a scenic off-road drive, a visit to a wolf sanctuary, and a picnic in natural surroundings.
What sets this apart is the off-roading component—many parts of the park are inaccessible by regular vehicle, making this trip unique. The guide, Rui, receives high praise for his deep knowledge and friendly demeanor. Reviewers mention the “exceptional trip” and highlight the private nature of the tour, making it perfect for those seeking a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who love wildlife, waterfalls, and a rugged ride through Portugal’s wild landscapes.
5. Canyoning In Gerês National Park
If you’re craving a splash of adrenaline, this canyoning experience offers a 6-hour guided adventure suitable for various levels. Led by certified canyoning guides, the tour involves navigating rivers, jumping into pools, and sliding down waterfalls.
Perfect for active travelers who want to explore Gerês’ hidden waterways, this experience allows you to connect intimately with nature’s water features. Since reviews are limited but enthusiastic, the emphasis is on safety, professionalism, and adaptability.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for adventure lovers seeking a flexible, guided introduction to canyoning in Portugal’s only national park.
6. From Fafe: Full-day Tour in Gerês National Park
This full-day tour from Fafe offers an in-depth exploration of Gerês, including visits to the Aldeia de Fafião, the Fojo dos Lobos, and the Mata de Albergaria forest. It combines cultural stops with natural highlights, giving a well-rounded experience of the park’s landscapes and history.
Rated 4.7/5, this tour is ideal for travelers wanting a broader cultural understanding along with outdoor scenery. The small-group format ensures personalized attention, and the itinerary includes local gastronomy and nature-focused visits.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in combining nature hikes with cultural insights and regional food.
7. From Porto: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park
This guided day trip covers key highlights, including the Aldeia de Fafião, the Fojo dos Lobos, and the Mata da Albergaria. The journey is around 8 hours, offering visits to scenic spots with plenty of time for photos, walks, and enjoying local cuisine.
Rated 5/5, it’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate a detailed itinerary with cultural, scenic, and culinary elements. The guide’s expertise adds depth to the experience, making it a value-packed day.
Bottom line: Best for visitors seeking a comprehensive, well-structured day immersed in Gerês’ natural beauty and local traditions.
8. Gerês Boat Exclusive
Experience Portugal’s crystal-clear lake waters with a private boat trip on Lake Gerês. This 1.5-hour cruise is tailored for those wanting privacy and comfort, with opportunities to swim and sample local refreshments. Access to private beaches only reachable by boat enhances the exclusivity.
This is a quieter, more relaxed option, perfect for romantic getaways or peaceful afternoons on the water. Reviewers appreciate the privacy and personalized service, making it different from typical group tours.
Bottom line: Ideal for travelers seeking a private, scenic boat experience with swimming and tasting opportunities.
9. Granite Climbing Experience in the National Park: Arcos de Valdevez
For those craving vertical challenges, this granite climbing experience on the Meadinha wall offers a unique perspective on the park’s landscape. Led by a local, certified guide, the small-group tour (up to 8) introduces beginners to climbing or pushes experienced climbers with advanced routes.
What makes this tour special is the “Yosemite of Europe” granite terrain and the focus on safety and instruction. The guide’s knowledge of the area ensures a memorable experience amid stunning views.
Bottom line: Perfect for adventure seekers wanting a hands-on climbing experience amidst impressive granite formations.
10. Guided Walk & Picnic in Peneda Gerês National Park
This 5-hour guided walk combines scenic trails with a gourmet picnic amid the park’s beautiful scenery. Starting from Arcos de Valdevez, the tour includes a 1-hour guided introduction, a 4-hour walk through natural landscapes, and a picnic featuring traditional Portuguese foods.
Highly rated at 5/5, it suits travelers who prefer moderate activity with cultural and culinary highlights. The guide arranges exclusive access to secluded spots, enhancing the sense of discovery.
Bottom line: Excellent for those who want a relaxed, immersive nature walk combined with local flavors.
11. Xertelo and Its 7 Lagoons
This full-day adventure takes you to explore the seven lagoons of Xertelo, with a scenic hike, swimming, and picnic included. The trip covers four pickup locations, with a comfortable electric car escorting you for two hours each way, making logistics smooth and eco-friendly.
The highlight is the multi-lagoon swimming experience—perfect for families or active travelers who want a mix of hiking, water fun, and relaxing scenery. The itinerary is flexible, allowing plenty of time for photos and leisure.
Bottom line: Best suited for those who enjoy long, scenic days with opportunities for swimming and picnicking in pristine natural surroundings.
How to Choose the Right Tour
When selecting a tour in Peneda Geres, consider your interest level, fitness, and time constraints. For active hikers, the Hike & Swim or Guided Walk & Picnic offer immersive natural experiences. If you prefer a more relaxed pace, the Boat Trip provides private waterside serenity. For thrill-seekers, the Buggy Ride and Canyoning deliver adrenaline and adventure.
Budget-wise, tours range from around $85 to over $300, so plan accordingly. Booking early is recommended, especially in peak season (spring and summer). Consider combining a cultural tour with outdoor adventures if you want variety.
And don’t forget to check availability—some experiences sell out quickly, particularly the full-day excursions from Porto or Fafe.
Final Thoughts
Peneda Geres National Park offers a wide range of ways to experience Portugal’s wild heart. From straightforward hikes and scenic drives to adrenaline-pumping canyoning and private boat trips, there’s an adventure for everyone. For a balanced trip, we love the Hike & Swim for its mix of activity and relaxation, but the Buggy Ride is perfect if you prefer speed and fun. If you’re an adventure junkie, don’t miss the Canyoning, which immerses you in the park’s waterways.
Whatever your taste, booking early and choosing the right experience will ensure a memorable journey through Portugal’s most rugged and beautiful landscape.
