Portugal is one of my favourite countries of all and I have traveled almost everywhere within its borders. Peneda Geres National Park is without a doubt one of the most beautiful parks in Portugal and in whole Europe and I’ll explain why.
I spent 3 active days in Peneda Geres, which offers plenty of amazing water adventures in the beautiful scenery of green landscapes, canyons and rough mountains! Canyoning in Peneda Geres is a top experience for adventurous and adrenaline lovers. If you prefer less challenging experience go for kayaking along Lima River – still great fun but safe in shallow waters of the river. There are plenty of agencies that will fill your day with adrenaline & extreme tours. Me and my lovely adventurous friend – Kamila can honestly say – MANAWA is the best agency for canyoning and kayaking and both activities were organized and executed on a excellent level!
Is there a bus from Porto to Peneda-Geres National Park?
Most people going to Peneda-Geres National Park are traveling by car. There is no direct bus from Porto to Peneda Geres and I highly advise renting a car, which will allow you to easily reach and explore the magnificent scenery of the park.
Renting a car in Portugal is very affordable, I had it for all my travels in Portugal (at least 7 times) and nowadays I only use Rentalcars.com – the world’s largest online car rental service that compares best deals from all top rental companies.
Besides, northern Portugal landscape is magnificent, filled with wild atlantic beaches and cosy towns, visiting by will allow you to explore fascinating mainland. The region is famous for delicious food and ‘green wine’ – Vino Verde – light, young, sparkling wine (used to be my favourite before I stopped drinking 😉 ).
Water adventures in Peneda Geres National Park.
This was one of the greatest canyoning adventures ever! National Park is the perfect location for canyoning due to its rugged terrain and stunning natural landscapes. Kayaking was SuperB! Most of the local agencies operate on high standards in respect of the safety, equipment, digital footage and well-experienced instructors.
Me and my friend we were thrilled with Manawa tour organizer – both tours exceed our expectations in every detail. Canyoning itself was amazing & tiring as hell 😉 Digital footage we got was mind blowing – see yourself. I got so many questions about Manawa agency and the tour we used for our activities that I’m leaving all details below:
Canyoning in Peneda Geres National Park.
This is full of fun water experience for everyone, but you need to know I am fit and I was exhausted after 4 hours canyoning! However the instructor will consider your fitness level and if necessary your team may start from the middle of the trail if you are not physically prepared for a full length of the adventure. Don’t forget to bring:
- Lunch
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit/towel
What to take for canyoning?
This is full of fun water experience for everyone, but you need to know I am fit and I was exhausted after 4 hours canyoning! However the instructor will consider your fitness level and if necessary your team may start from the middle of the trail if you are not physically prepared for a full length of the adventure. Don’t forget to bring:
- Lunch
- Water
- Sunscreen
- Swimsuit/towel
Manawa will ensure that you are properly trained in the techniques needed to navigate the canyon safely. They will also provide high quality equipment:
- Boots with excellent grip, protection and comfort – Adidas (never had better shoes)
- Photos & videos (beautiful footage!)
- Helmet very light and comfortable
- Specific Canyoning neoprene wetsuits
- Even waterproof backpacks are included.
Photos & videos from canyoning.
No need to carry your GoPro. Manawa has GoPro and drone footage, which is fabulous. Take a look at my youtube videos to get an idea on how fun and adventurous is this canyoning!
What to expect from canyoning in Peneda Geres?
I was there around covid times, so there was almost no tourist. The protected area of the national park is one of the most stunning natural environments I’ve seen!
The guide told us canyon waters are crystal clear and drinkable. And they seem like it.
Water was cold! Which after 10 minutes of the activity is becomes refreshing. Canyoning in Peneda Geres National Park (also known as canyoneering) involves climbing, zip lining, swimming (in the pools) and cliff jumping. They will also take you to amazing waterfalls and caves.
Canyoning routes in Peneda Geres.
For those who are new to canyoning, there are plenty of beginner-friendly routes in Peneda Geres. But as I said, if the instructor feels a full route might be challenging for you, he will pick another starting point.
Safety is always a top priority when it comes to canyoning, another reason to pick Manawa reputable tour guide, who has experience in the area. They will provide you with all the necessary equipment and ensure that you are properly trained in the techniques needed to navigate the canyon safely.
One popular canyoning route in Peneda Geres is the Rio de Frades canyon. This route offers a mix of jumps, abseils, and slides as you navigate through the canyon. The highlight of the route is the impressive waterfall.
Another popular route is the Rio de Castro canyon. This route is slightly more challenging and involves longer abseils and jumps.
What to do in Peneda-Geres National Park?
Peneda Geres National Park offers a variety of other water adventures. Canyoning, kayaking, rafting and paddleboarding are all popular activities in the area. The park is home to several stunning rivers and lakes, making it the perfect location to explore by water. Here are few top rated affordable tours:
- Portugal Extreme Buggy Tour in north Portugal
- Canyoning & ziplining in crystal green waterfalls,
- Canyoning on Varziela River,
- RAFTING – they say one of the best options for unforgattable adventure,
- KAYAKING – suitable for families as well,
- Hiking trails – local tourist office will tell you all about the hiking trails in this beautiful national park, get maps, etc.
- Biking – there is an amazing 160 km long biking path along the river
- Visit Afife at the seaside – a fantastic place for beaches and cheap food. As the region is not that popular you are getting much better value for money.
Kayaking in Peneda-Geres.
Kayaking in Peneda-Geres is a great adventure for singles and for families with kids. It’s safe to take your youngest on this trip. The river is not deep and you are under a very good guidance. There are a few rough sections, which you have to overcome but it’s thrilling and you are under the instructior care.
If you have a basic experience in kayaking it will be such a great fun for you! The region is absolutely stunning, you’re going to spend a lovely day among incredible nature. The whole adventure lasts 3-4 hours for small groups. Check options with Manawa we used for this trip.
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