Kayak Rio Douro Portugal!
For the kayaker who likes to delve into history, drink good wine and feast on opulent local delicacies, this trip is a dream come true. Unlike many of our trips that explore remote seas and wild lands, this is a trip through hills and valleys that have been shaped by humans for hundreds of years. Proof of this is found during our visit to an ancient rock art site and museum, as well as age-old agricultural terraces. Yet, there is wild nature left as well. Rolling mountains terraced with vineyards and olive trees are also home to rabbits, wild boar, falcons, eagles and hawks. Much of our voyage passes through a wide valley where grapes and olives grow, but we also pass through dramatic and steep rock-walled canyons as we paddle downstream.
This trip is not only a culinary feast, but also a kaleidoscopic jouney of discovery. Most days we kayak in the morning and end our paddle with a picnic lunch before continuing on for an afternoon of exploration. Ancient castles, remnants of Rome and storied wine estates delight our senses as we travel through Portugal’s Port wine region. Each evening we toast the good life in the family-run inns or boutique hotels. These are places to learn more about the local culture from our hosts and rest from our day’s activities that also include wine tastings and walks through vineyards. This carefully crafted trip features visits to three different UNESCO World Heritage sites, including the Historic Center of Porto, the prehistoric rock art site at the Coa Valley and the Alto Douro Wine Region.
Images & Videos
Itinerary
Day 1
Welcome to Portugal!
Join us at the tour hotel at 3:00 PM to meet your local guide for an orientation meeting to help prepare you for the trip and answer last-minute questions. After this we set off for a three-hour walking tour of the historic center of Porto, a designated UNESCO World Heritage Site, to explore the rich history and charm of Porto. We visit the grand Avenida dos Aliados, where Belle Époque architecture and the City Hall building set the scene. We continue with a visit to climb the iconic Clerigos Tower for panoramic views of the city and the Rio Douro, our kayaking destination. We visit the Ribeira District along the Douro River and cross the impressive Luís I Bridge. This handsome metal bridge was designed by Théophile Seyrig, a disciple of Gustave Eiffel. It has been updated and repurposed for various forms of public transport over the years and remains a fascinating and iconic landmark in Porto.
We share a welcome dinner together and set the stage for a fantastic week ahead.
*Note: We encourage you to arrive in Portugal, or Porto, at least a day or two early. One good reason is that airline delays seem to be getting more common, so building in a cushion is wise. Another reason is to recover from jet lag. A third is that if your luggage is misplaced it has time to catch up with you. If you want to arrange any additional guide services before or after the kayaking trip, we can help.
Activity: Walking tour of Porto historic center including Clerigos Tower climb
Distance: Approximately 4 km (2.5 miles) walking through city streets
Estimated Time: About 3 hours total (including stops and tower climb)
Elevation Gain/Loss: Moderate city walking with a vertical climb of about 75 meters (253 feet) inside the tower
Difficulty: Easy to moderate—mostly flat walking with a steep but short stair climb up the tower
Day 2
Train ride and visit to the Coa Park Rock Art Museum
After breakfast at the hotel we meet at the Sao Bento train station, famous for the intricate azulejo tile panels that make this station unique in the world. We board our morning train, the Linha Do Douro, which is a local train that parallels the Douro River. We travel east about three hours to the end of the line near the Spanish border, having a simple picnic lunch during the train ride. On arrival we transfer by van to the Côa Valley. Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Park is set on an expansive area and includes over 80 sites of rock art with over 5000 engravings. The rock art here illustrates the economic, social and spiritual life of these prehistoric ancestors. We begin our visit by paddling about two miles to see some of this rock art in location. We paddle back to our starting point, having completed the perfect warm up for our week ahead!
Afterwards, time allowing, we visit the nearby Rock Art Museum. Set on a hill with expansive views of the confluence of the Douro and Coa rivers, this area has been a significant place of human activity for thousands of years. We then drive to our lodging, set within a wine and olive oil-producing vineyard that, in the Middle Ages, belonged to the Templar Knights. Dinner is in the vineyard dining room.
Activity 1: Walking tour of Côa Valley Rock Art Museum and walkways
Distance: Approximately 2 km (1.2 miles)
Estimated Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: Moderate, including descent and ascent of about 160 meters (525 feet) with roughly 890 steps
Difficulty: Moderate, well-maintained paths but physically demanding due to elevation changes
Activity 2: Kayaking on the Douro River to view rock art
Distance: Approximately 3.2 km (2 miles) round trip
Estimated Time: About 1.5 to 2 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: None, flat river paddling
Difficulty: Easy to moderate, suitable for beginners with basic paddling skills
Day 3
Kayaking the Douro
After a safety talk and orientation, we begin our paddle on the scenic and wonderful Douro River. We start early in the morning in order to avoid midday headwinds. Today’s paddle is through one of the most beautiful and isolated parts of the river.
Our lunch is a splendid picnic at the ending point of our paddle and after lunch, we drive to our lodgings, where we spend two blissful nights. There’s time to relax in the afternoon, with a possible sauna. Later we have a real treat for you - a Port and Douro wine tasting. The Douro Valley, home to Port wine, was designated as the first demarcated wine region in the world in 1756. Wine, Port, culture and the cuisine of this region are inextricably linked and make for many beautiful pairings. Dinner will be at another family-run restaurant nearby.
Activity: Kayaking on the Douro River from Fos do Sabor to Mos
Distance: Approximately 12.2 km (7.6 miles)
Estimated Time: About 4 to 5 hours including planned rest stops every 1.5 hours
Difficulty: Moderate, due to the length of the paddle but at a relaxed pace with rest stops
Day 4
Continuing Downstream on the Douro
Another beautiful and relaxing day awaits. After breakfast, we paddle down the river for about 2 miles to the most famous Quinta (winery) on the river. The history of port wine and the Douro River would be very different without the Quinta da Vesúvio that planted its first vineyards in 1823 and opened as a winery in 1827. Owned by the Symington family, this “Queen of the Douro” produces some of the region’s finest wines. We continue downstream past another Quinta, the Quinta de Vargelas and on to Ferradosa. Slopes of vineyards, groves of olives and almonds, and chestnut forests make for a stunning landscape.
Once we reach our takeout, we have another tasty picnic. On our way back to our accommodations, we stop to visit an 8th-century castle for a lovely stroll while learning more about the diverse and intriguing history of this corner of Europe. Dinner will be nearby.
Activity: Kayaking on the Douro River from Mos to Ferradosa
Distance: Approximately 12.3 km (7.4 miles)
Estimated Time: About 3 to 4 hours at a relaxed pace with stops
Difficulty: Moderate, due to distance but suitable for most paddlers
Activity: Walking tour at 8th-century castle near Ferradosa
Distance: Approximately 1 km (0.6 miles)
Estimated Time: About 30 to 45 minutes
Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal, mostly flat and easy walking
Difficulty: Easy, gentle stroll with historical interpretation
Day 5
Kayaking the Douro and Through the Valeira Lock
One of today’s highlights is our passage through the Valeira Lock. The Valeira Cataract was the greatest obstacle to navigation on the Douro River until the first great hydraulic project was carried out between 1780 and 1791. This project was motivated by the need to transport wine from the wine country near the border with Spain, to the sea, where it could be shipped abroad. The falls were destroyed to allow passage of boats that carried the wine. However, this ambitious project didn't eliminate the dangers of the river, and each voyage encountered great risk. Since there were sometimes collisions with rocks along the route, the wine casks were filled only halfway so that if the boat was destroyed and casks fell into the river, they would float and thus could be recovered.
Navigation on the Douro today is aided by the existence of five locks that are of the same size and allow boats up to 272 ft. in length, 37 ft. beam, and a draft of 12.5 ft. The Valeira Lock is one of the most impressive locks in the world and was finished in 1975. In the lock, we are lowered 108 ft. to continue our journey down the river. Going through a lock in a kayak for the first time is an exciting experience and you will likely feel rather dwarfed by the towering lock walls and gates that surrounds us.
After the lock, we paddle to the small village of Tua where we enjoy a simple picnic lunch. We then head to our hotel to relax and perhaps take a swim in the pool, walk around the village, visit the small interpretive center, or cozy up with a book. We have dinner a locally owned restaurant which promises to be another feast of locally harvested produce and other delicacies.
Activity: Kayaking on the Douro River from Ferradosa to Tua, including passage through Valeira Lock
Distance: Approximately 12.4 km (7.7 miles)
Estimated Time: About 3 to 4 hours including lock passage and rest stops
Elevation Gain/Loss: Lock descent of 33 meters (108 feet) during passage through Valeira Lock
Difficulty: Moderate—long paddle with the unique experience of navigating a large lock
Activity: Walking and leisure in the village of Tua
Distance: Variable, light walking around village and interpretive center
Estimated Time: Flexible, 1 to 2 hours optional
Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy, gentle strolls and relaxation opportunities
Day 6
Kayaking on the Douro
Today’s paddle takes us downriver to Pinhao, another important wine-producing center. You paddle past some of the finest wine estates along the river and it’s a time to reflect on the long traditions of wine making that are at the heart of the cultural identity of this region. Terraced hillsides, orange groves and towering hills are sights to relish. In the town of Pinhao we take out and have lunch in a local restaurant.
We have a fun afternoon visiting a family-run quinta (winery) for a private tour followed by a tasting. This visit is likely to be the highlight of your day as we learn about the history of this particular winery, see there barrels and taste their divine libations! After this we continue on to the town of Peso da Regua for a visit to the very interesting Douro Museum which features a history of the wines and ports of the Douro Valley. After our visit it’s a short drive a short distance to our evening accommodations.
Later, enjoy a walk, visiting with fellow kayakers or relax however you like. Dinner in a local restaurant in Peso da Regua.
Activity: Kayaking on the Douro River from Tua to Pinhão
Distance: Approximately 12.4 km (7.7 miles)
Estimated Time: About 3 to 4 hours with breaks
Difficulty: Moderate—steady paddle with scenic views of terraced vineyards and hillsides
Activity: Walking tour and tasting at family-run quinta (winery) in Pinhão
Distance: About 1 km (0.6 miles) of walking around the winery grounds
Estimated Time: Approximately 1.5 to 2 hours (tour and tasting)
Elevation Gain/Loss: Minimal
Difficulty: Easy—gentle walking with stops for tasting and explanation
Day 7
Kayaking on the Douro
We launch from Peso da Regua for another beautiful day on water. The valley is broad and inspires breaths of fresh air. We pause for lunch on the banks just before the river narrows. After lunch, we continue our paddle downriver, passing under a Roman Bridge and on to a natural spring with a beautiful small waterfall. From there, we move to our lodgings for the night. Set just next to the river, the Quinta de Ermida is a beautiful baroque-style manor house built in the early 19th century with significant structural and decorative renovations in the early 20th century. Enjoy the lovely swimming pool and stroll around the grounds. Dinner is at the Quinta.
Activity: Kayaking on the Douro River from Peso da Régua to Quinta de Ermida
Distance: Approximately 18.5 km (11.5 miles)
Estimated Time: Around 4 to 5 hours including breaks
Difficulty: Moderate—longer paddle with scenic river views and varied landscape
Day 8
Return to Porto
Today, after a superb breakfast, it’s a very short drive to the local train station. Here we say goodbye to our guides and return to Porto by train to the Sao Bento Station. We plan to arrive shortly after noon, depending on the train schedule. On arrival, continue on to your hotel or other destinations. We recommend you spend another night in Porto before traveling home or to points beyond. However, should you wish to continue your travels, there are trains to Lisbon and flights to many points in Europe. If you plan to fly somewhere, we’d recommend that you don’t plan a flight until 3:00 pm or later.
An Important note: Our itinerary is always subject to change due to the weather or other unforeseen situations requiring modifications. Our objective is to spend delightful days on the river and not be stressed by rigid planning.
Dates & Rates
| Dates | Adult (USD) | Child (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| 2026 | ||
| Apr 14, 2026 to Apr 21, 2026 Sold Out! | $4,690£0€0$0$0 | $4,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 23, 2026 to Apr 30, 2026 Only 4 spaces left! | $4,690£0€0$0$0 | $4,690£0€0$0$0 |
| Jun 19, 2026 to Jun 26, 2026 Only 2 spaces left! | $4,690£0€0$0$0 | $4,690£0€0$0$0 |
| 2027 | ||
| Apr 15, 2027 to Apr 22, 2027 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 |
| Apr 24, 2027 to May 01, 2027 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 |
| Jun 16, 2027 to Jun 23, 2027 Only 6 spaces left! | $5,890£0€0$0$0 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 |
| Sep 30, 2027 to Oct 06, 2027 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 | $5,890£0€0$0$0 |
Supplementary Information
2027 Dates Now Live! Only 12 spaces available on each departure.
2026 Dates & Pricing
14-21 April 2026 New Date Added due to Popular Demand
23-30 April 2026
19-26 June 2026
The 2026 price for this trip is set at $4690 per person (no tiered pricing).
2027 Dates & Pricing
5-22 April 2027
24-1 April 2027
16-23 June 2027
30-6 September 2027
The 2027 price for this trip is set at $5890 per person (no tiered pricing).
Because the accommodations we use are quite small, we generally cannot offer a private single room and thus singles must be willing to share with a same-sex roommate. However, if we are unable to pair you with another solo traveler, or the trip does not fill and an extra room is available for a single person, there is a $930 single supplement charge.
ALL PRICES IN US DOLLARS. We will do our best to adhere to the itineraries and trip descriptions listed on our website. However, tour itineraries or sub-contractors (such as taxi, trains, cruise boats or hotels) may change slightly due to reasons beyond our control including but not limited to Acts of God, wind, waves, inclement weather or other. You will be sent pre-trip email with latest details within a month of your tour - it is your responsibility to check in with us prior to your trip to see if you have all the information you need. We will always do our best to provide you with the best possible tour and to fully meet your expectations to the best of our ability.
Trip costs quoted are based on foreign exchange rates current at the time of this printing. We reserve the right to raise the trip fee if there are exceptional cost increases beyond our control.
Tour Includes:
- Service of our Adventure Consultants
- Certified professional kayak guide
- One or two additional support staff
- All transportation as noted in the itinerary including a private van(s)
- Specialized equipment including kayaks and all kayaking gear
- Accommodations as noted in the itinerary
- All meals as noted in itinerary including gratuities
- Private pre-tour orientation meeting
- House wine, beer and water with meals
Not Included:
- All air fares to, from and within Portugal
- Airport transfers
- Gratuities
- Personal expenses such as non-included drinks, laundry, souvenirs, etc
- Hotel before and after your tour dates
- Travel Protection Plan (Travel Insurance)
Reviews
FAQ & More
How do I get to Porto?
This kayak tour begins and ends in Porto (OPO airport code). We recommend that you fly into either Lisbon or Porto and leave from either Porto or Lisbon. If you fly into Lisbon, you can either fly or take the train to Porto. The train connections between Lisbon and Porto are very good and take just under 3 hours. By the time you allow airport check in time the train is just as fast and, from an environmental standpoint, train travel is much less impactful.
What’s the weather like in the Douro Valley?
In late April, the Douro Valley is in full spring mode. You can expect mild to warm temperatures, with daytime highs typically ranging from 60–75°F (15–24°C). The hillsides are green and blooming, and while rain is possible, it’s usually light or scattered. It’s a beautiful time of year for walks and vineyard visits without the summer crowds.
In late June, summer is settling in. Daytime temperatures are usually in the 75–90°F (24–32°C) range, with long, sunny days. It’s warm but not usually oppressively hot, especially in the valley’s higher elevations or on the river. This is also the start of the region’s lively summer energy, making it a great time for local festivals and outdoor dining.
For both trips, we recommend packing layers, sun protection, and comfortable shoes for walking.
Who should go?
This is an active trip that includes walking and sea kayaking, so you should be in reasonable shape. No previous sea kayaking experience is necessary, but you will enjoy the trip more if you’ve been paddling before. People from all walks of life and all ages join our trips. We get a mix of couples, singles, families and friends, usually between 35 and 70 years of age. Everyone comes to have a good time and the variety of people and interests found on each trip makes it all the more fun. Our adventure consultants know that a primary consideration may be the mix of people on the trip, so we're happy to tell you who has signed up and help you choose a compatible group.
Can you accommodate for dietary needs and food allergies in the menu?
As long as we are informed in advance of any food allergies or dietary needs, we can mostly accommodate for it. In some rare instances, where substitutions may not be locally available in Portugal, we may ask that you bring your own substitutions.
What do I need to bring with me?
We will send you a complete packing list for your trip. Packing light is always best when you’re traveling internationally. It is a good idea to pack loosely fitting clothing that can be easily hand washed. Quick-dry clothing for the kayaking portion is essential. See our packing list for a detailed description of what to bring.
What is the Festa de São João in Porto, and will it coincide with our trip?
The Festa de São João (Festival of Saint John) is one of Porto’s biggest and most beloved annual celebrations. It takes place on the night of June 23rd into the early hours of June 24th. The festival blends Catholic traditions with pagan midsummer rituals and includes lively street parties, dancing, fireworks, music, and quirky traditions like hitting people on the head with soft plastic hammers or leeks.
If you’re traveling on our June 19–26, 2026 departure, you'll be in Porto during the height of the celebration. It’s a unique opportunity to experience local culture in full swing!
Do I need to exchange currency before I go?
The currency in Portugal is the Euro and it's easy to get Euros on arrival and from ATM machines along the way. It’s never a good idea to keep a lot of cash on you while you are traveling, but in local shops and markets having some local currency is helpful.
Is there a minimum age requirement?
This trip is best suited for people ages 16 and over however if you are interested in a family-oriented trip contact us.
What is the official language of Portugal?
Portuguese is the official language in Portugal and is spoken throughout the country. English is the second most widely spoken language in the country, particularly amongst the younger generation.
What type of electrical outlets do they use in Portugal?
Portugal uses Type F (two round pins) plugs and operates on a 230V supply voltage at a frequency of 50Hz.
Reviews
It was fabulous!
We took Sea Kayak Adventure''s Rio Douro kayaking tour this past spring and it was completely fabulous. It was very well organized, and delivered all that the promo said: glorious kayaking; delicious cuisine (we're vegetarians and were fully pleased by the veggie options); excellent side trips; and both charming (but modernized) and beautiful euromodern accomodations. The side trips to the Rock Art Museum, the Douro Port Museum, the Porto walking tour, and the 8th century castle were fascinating and revealed some of the region's multi-thousand year old history. Our companions were all delightful, seasoned adventurers, while our top-flight guide and his adroit helpers made the trip go so very smoothly. Passing through the great Valeria Lock was eye-popping but not scary, and mid-day picnics along the riverside, highlighted by local tree-fresh fruit were idyllic. It's not white water kayaking, but it is a physically active trip. Oh, lest I forget, the visit to the small but centuries-old winery with Port tasting overlooking the vinyards and the Douro River valley was both delightful and educational. Overall, looking back, the trip was as packed full of beautiful memories as any adventure could be.
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