Do I need to be an expert swimmer?

No, but you should be comfortable swimming in natural flowing water and able to handle mild currents safely.

Is the activity suitable for children?

This trip is better suited for teenagers and adults due to water and terrain challenges.

What happens if I can’t complete the swimming sections?

Guides always provide alternative routes or resting options to accommodate varying comfort levels.

Are wetsuits provided or should I bring my own?

Wetsuits can typically be rented from NaTour Way, but bringing your own ensures fit and comfort.

How physically demanding is the Caminhada Aquática?

It requires moderate fitness—participants will often need to hike, swim, and jump between rock pools.

Can I bring a waterproof camera or phone?

Yes, waterproof gear is recommended to capture the river’s beauty without risk to your electronics.

Caminhada Aquática Adventure with NaTour Way in Canelas

Carved through northern Portugal’s verdant foothills, the Rio Paiva cuts a striking path near Canelas, a small town known for its dramatic river landscapes and unspoiled nature. NaTour Way’s Caminhada Aquática invites adventurers to engage with this wild river corridor in a deeply physical, immersive way—combining hiking with swimming, rock sliding, and cliff jumps that reveal the region’s more exhilarating side. This is no ordinary trail: riverbeds of granite frame the crystal-clear waters, while pockets of calm lagoons offer moments to hone swimming strokes or catch your breath amidst the sound of rushing water.

The distinctive Paiva Walkways, a wooden trail that runs alongside the river, serve as a gateway into this environment, but the Caminhada Aquática ventures beyond, navigating natural water routes inaccessible by foot alone. Surrounded by pine forests and dotted with endemic shrubs, participants encounter diverse birdlife including kingfishers and European bee-eaters. The thrill of sliding down smooth rocks into cool basins punctuates the journey with bursts of adrenaline, while guides share insights on local flora and fauna adapted to the rugged river ecosystem.

NaTour Way, operating in Canelas, has carved a niche with this activity by offering an adventure tightly integrated with the landscape and community values. Focused on safety and sustainable recreation, their guided experiences emphasize respect for the fragile river environment, particularly as the Rio Paiva effloresces into a regional conservation hotspot. In spring and early summer, flows run higher, amplifying the challenges for swimmers and jumpers, while fall’s mellow climate suits those seeking a blend of physical challenge and tranquil scenery.

For those staying in Porto, just over an hour away, the Caminhada Aquática is a day-trip that delivers a unique combination of adrenaline, natural beauty, and cultural connection—a standout in Portugal’s growing roster of river-based outdoor activities.