Take on the rapids of the Rio Paiva with Just Come’s full-day canoe-rafting trip from Porto, featuring thrilling river runs, traditional local cuisine, and a sweet stop in Arouca.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8–9 hours
Fitness Level
Participants should have average fitness and be comfortable with light to moderate paddling and physical activity for most of the day.
Wildlife
History
The Rio Paiva flows through the Arouca Geopark, a UNESCO site celebrated for its unique geology and prehistoric fossils.
Conservation
Just Come practices responsible tourism, minimizing environmental impact while promoting awareness of local ecosystems.
Just Come
Take on the rapids of the Rio Paiva with Just Come’s full-day canoe-rafting trip from Porto, featuring thrilling river runs, traditional local cuisine, and a sweet stop in Arouca.
Just Come is an Arouca-based activity provider offering guided outdoor experiences across the Arouca municipality in Aveiro. The company organizes a range of excursions that showcase local geology, culture and river landscapes, including guided visits to the Passadiços do Paiva and the iconic Ponte 516 Arouca, rafting on the Rio Paiva, canyoning routes, river tubing and jeep tours across the Serra da Freita and Serra da Arada.
Guided walking tours include historial routes through the Centro Histórico of Arouca with visits to the Mosteiro and the Museu de Arte Sacra, and scenic hikes such as the Planalto da Freita and Drave village walks. River-based activities range from family-friendly Canyoning Descoberta (suitable for children aged 6 and up) to Cano-Rafting and full-adrenaline Rafting Aventura on the Rio Paiva. Jeep tours explore geological highlights within the Arouca Geopark, including lookout points, waterfalls and historic mining villages like Regoufe and Drave.
All experiences are presented as guided, with equipment provided for river activities and expert local guides leading jeep and walking tours. Just Come offers departures from Arouca and selected departures from Porto for several trips, making access flexible for visitors. The company’s range of experiences emphasizes local landscapes, traditional food stops and responsible outdoor practice, enabling visitors to discover Arouca’s natural and cultural highlights through professionally guided itineraries.
Location
Arouca, Aveiro
Base for all tours and departures
Top Attraction
Passadiços do Paiva & Ponte 516
Scenic boardwalk and bridge
Family Friendly
Ages 6+
Canyoning Descoberta welcomes children
Tours Offered
24 experiences
Walking, rafting, jeep, canyoning
Choose walking tours, rafting, canyoning or jeep tours — book departures from Arouca or Porto and secure a guided outdoor experience.
Wear quick-drying clothing
Expect to get wet on the river; lightweight, moisture-wicking gear enhances comfort.
Bring sunscreen and sunglasses
The sun intensifies on open water; protect your skin and eyes throughout the day.
Listen carefully to safety briefings
Navigating rapids demands attention and teamwork—follow your guide’s instructions closely.
Pack a small waterproof bag
Keep essentials like a phone or snacks dry during the trip by using a secure waterproof pouch.
Quick-drying clothing
Keeps you comfortable and dry during and after river runs.
summer
Water shoes
Protects feet and provides grip on slippery riverbanks.
Sunscreen
Prevents sunburn thanks to extended time outdoors on the water.
spring|summer|fall
Waterproof dry bag
Keeps valuables safe and dry while on the river.