Travelers seeking Portugal’s wild side will find it in Peneda-Gerês National Park. This pristine wilderness area in northern Portugal delivers an authentic mix of untamed nature and timeless village life. The park’s best tours run from nearby cities, with Porto serving as the main gateway.
I love the small group hikes from Porto – they’re intimate and let you really absorb the park’s rugged beauty. The kayaking options are fantastic for active travelers, while cultural walks from Guimarães perfectly balance village visits with natural wonders. For pure adventure, nothing beats the buggy tours from Arcos de Valdevez, offering thrilling off-road experiences through stunning terrain.
Let’s explore the top tours that showcase this remarkable national park.
Key Points
- The Peneda-Gerês Tour with Lunch from Porto offers a 10-hour immersive experience exploring the diverse natural wonders of the Gerês region.
- Full-day tours from Guimarães provide a cultural experience with guided walks, picnics, and exploration of ancient villages in the lush forests and waterfalls.
- The 8-hour full-day tour from Fafe includes a scenic drive, hiking, swimming, picnicking, and visiting a wolf conservation village.
- Buggy tours in Arcos de Valdevez offer a thrilling 1-hour off-road adventure with panoramic views and opportunities to spot local wildlife.
- Paddleboard tours from Porto provide a 3-hour exploration of the Vez River, surrounded by lush greenery and serene waters.
From Porto: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park
Although Peneda-Gerês National Park is situated a bit further north from Porto, visitors can take a full-day tour that departs from the city and explores the park’s stunning landscapes.
Two of the most popular tours from Porto are the “Small Group Day Tour of Geres National Park” and the “Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Lunch”.
The Small Group Day Tour lasts 9 hours and costs $105.03. It’s highly rated at 4.8 stars from 354 reviews.
The Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Lunch is a 10-hour excursion that also costs $105.03 and has an impressive 4.9-star rating from 803 reviews.
For those seeking more adventure, the “Peneda-Gerês National Park Tour with Kayaking & Lunch” is a 10-hour tour that includes both a land and water component.
It’s priced at $110.28 and has a 4.9-star rating from 266 reviews.
Read our full review: From Porto: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park Review
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From Guimarães: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park
Visitors to Peneda-Gerês National Park can also opt for a full-day tour departing from the nearby city of Guimarães. This 9-hour small group tour offers a chance to explore the stunning landscapes of Gerês National Park.
Pickup is available, and the tour is rated 4.8 out of 5 based on 354 reviews on GetYourGuide.
The tour takes visitors through the park’s diverse natural wonders, including ancient villages, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Guests can enjoy a guided walk and picnic, seeing the park’s rich history and culture.
The tour is priced at €100 per person, providing a comprehensive experience at a reasonable cost.
For those seeking an in-depth exploration of Peneda-Gerês National Park, the From Guimarães: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park is a popular choice.
With its small group size, knowledgeable guides, and variety of activities, this tour offers an excellent way to discover the natural beauty and cultural heritage of this breathtaking region.
Read our full review: From Guimarães: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park Review
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From Fafe: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park
Departing from the nearby city of Fafe, a full-day tour explores the stunning landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park. This 8-hour excursion immerses visitors in the natural beauty of the region, with a focus on its diverse activities and attractions.
The tour begins with a scenic drive through the park, allowing participants to take in the breathtaking vistas of rolling hills, lush forests, and cascading waterfalls. Along the way, the guide provides insights into the park’s rich history and ecology, as well as the traditional way of life of the local communities.
Guests can expect to engage in a variety of activities, including hiking, swimming, and picnicking. The tour also includes a visit to the park’s iconic wolf village, where visitors can learn about the conservation efforts to protect these charismatic predators.
At the end of the day, participants return to Fafe with a newfound appreciation for the natural wonders of Peneda-Gerês National Park and the memories of an unforgettable adventure.
Read our full review: From Fafe: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park Review
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1h Buggy Tour • Arcos De Valdevez • Peneda Gerês
Situated in the picturesque town of Arcos de Valdevez, the Arcos de Valdevez & Peneda-Gerês Guided Buggy Ride offers an exhilarating off-road adventure through the stunning landscapes of Peneda-Gerês National Park.
The 1-hour, 17-km tour features 75% off-road driving, reaching a maximum altitude of 450 m. Participants can choose between Cfmoto Zforce 550 Ex or Cfmoto Zforce 950 Sport 4 buggies, accommodating up to 2 or 4 riders.
The tour provides panoramic views of the Vale do Vez valley and frequent wildlife sightings, making it an ideal introduction to off-road driving. Priced from SEK 906 per group, the activity has earned a 4.8/5 rating from past participants, who praised the beautiful scenery and friendly staff.
However, it’s not suitable for pregnant women, those with back problems, vertigo, or respiratory issues. Participants must bring a valid driver’s license, €300 deposit, and appropriate clothing to get dirty.
Read our full review: 1h Buggy Tour • Arcos De Valdevez • Peneda Gerês Review
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From Porto: Guided Paddleboard Tour in Gerês National Park
A popular water activity in Peneda-Gerês National Park is the Guided Paddleboard Tour from Porto. This 3-hour experience allows visitors to explore the Vez River while standing on a stand-up paddleboard. The tour is highly rated, earning 4.9 stars from 10 reviews.
It’s priced at Kč3,013 per group of up to 2 people, making it an affordable option for small groups. The tour includes round-trip transportation from Porto, all necessary equipment, and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way.
Participants can expect to paddle through the serene waters of the Gerês National Park, surrounded by lush greenery and stunning natural scenery. No prior paddleboarding experience is required, making it accessible for adventurers of all skill levels.
Whether you’re seeking a peaceful day on the water or an active way to learn about the park’s beauty, the Guided Paddleboard Tour is a fantastic choice.
Read our full review: From Porto: Guided Paddleboard Tour in Gerês National Park Review
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From Braga: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park
The Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park from Braga offers a comprehensive exploration of this stunning natural wonder. Lasting 8 hours, the tour provides pickup from Braga, allowing for a seamless start to the day.
Visitors can expect to enjoy the park’s diverse landscapes, from lush forests and cascading waterfalls to picturesque villages. The guided experience ensures travelers make the most of their time, with a focus on the park’s highlights.
With a 5-star rating from a single review, this tour is a reliable choice for those seeking an in-depth look at Gerês National Park. Priced at Kč7,157 per person, the tour offers excellent value for the comprehensive nature of the experience.
Whether you’re interested in hiking, wildlife viewing, or simply soaking in the serene beauty of the park, this full-day tour from Braga is an excellent way to explore the wonders of Peneda-Gerês.
Read our full review: From Braga: Full-Day Tour in Gerês National Park Review
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Recap
The Peneda-Gerês National Park offers a variety of tour options to suit different interests. Visitors can choose from full-day guided tours departing from nearby cities, as well as more adventurous activities like buggy tours and paddleboard excursions. With its stunning landscapes and diverse natural features, the park provides ample opportunities for outdoor exploration and immersion in Portugal’s beautiful northern region.