The 7 Best Kayaking Trails in the Algarve

Are you in the Algarve and don’t know what to do? Do you want a different activity, full of adventure and also discover the natural beauty of the Algarve Coast? A kayak trip is what you need!

When is the best time to kayak in the Algarve?

Although it is possible to do it all year round, the recommended time for it to be a calm and peaceful walk is from September to May. The morning time is also the most advisable if you don’t want to meet a lot of people.

Kayak on your own or with an agency?

Kayaking is the safest, most practical and accessible way, as you don’t need a license, to visit the famous caves in the Algarve, for this same reason there are people who decide to take some trips on their own, and with this initiative the question “Kayaking” arises. on your own or with an agency?” :

Go Kayaking Alone:

  • you can have greater independence in relation to the time it will take and the trail you will follow,
  • just rent a vest, a kayak and set off on the adventure.

Advantages of kayaking with an agency:

  • you will be able to enjoy the tour and the view more,
  • it is safer, given the fact that you are accompanied by a guide who knows what to do in any circumstance,
  • you won’t have to worry about the equipment and if you go in a group, it might even be more fun.

Benagil Caves

DifficultyAverage / for Intermediates

Many people visit the famous Benagil Caves in the Algarve on a boat trip, but an exciting kayak tour takes you inside these natural formations.

It is a tour that involves a lot of natural beauty, adventure, fun and effort.

The Benagil Caves are in 47th place in the Top of the 50 Most Spectacular Caves in the World and also in 9th in the Top 10 of the Most Beautiful Caves in Europe.

In the Algarve, it is undoubtedly one of the most talked about tourist attractions.

The shortest route is 2 hours, round trip time and also stops to enjoy the coastal landscapes, get out of the kayak, take photos and even go diving, if you want to cool off, this tour can start either at Carvoeiro Beach or in Praia da Rocha (Portimão). Without a doubt an extraordinary place to visit.

Lagos

DifficultyMedium / Intermediate  

Adventure along the Atlantic coast in the beautiful Algarve region on this incredible trip. Discover one of the most exciting coastal trails in the region while enjoying the incomparable view of the caves and various cliff-type rock formations, up to around 20 m high. With turquoise blue water, this region presents us with an unparalleled perception of the underwater world.

Active travelers and sea lovers will enjoy this kayaking trip from Lagos to the Ponta da Piedade Caves in an average time of 2h30min. This is a fun way to experience Portugal’s natural beauty while staying active.

Albufeira Kayak Tour

DifficultyMedium / Intermediate

Get in a kayak and explore the bays, caves and even enjoy a refreshing swim (or several) on a beach that is inaccessible by land. With the water temperature varying between 18ºC and 24ºC, it is definitely worth taking the opportunity to do several trails in the Algarve, starting with this wonderful one in Albufeira, starting from São Rafael beach towards Galé beach, lasting 2h30min, passing through several magnificent landscapes.

Armação de Pêra

Difficulty:  Easy / Beginners

The Ria Formosa Natural Park, protected since 1987, is a paradise for marine life with rare ecological characteristics. With its lagoons, five islands and two peninsulas of unique beauty, it was chosen as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal.

You will be absolutely impressed by the island’s incredible beaches and panoramas and as you glide silently over the crystal clear waters in the kayak, you will be able to see the underwater fauna and flora. On the way it will be possible to observe many birds, crabs, seafood and many unique points because many places are not accessible to boat companies, as their engines have a huge impact on the environment of the natural park.

This tour lasts 2 hours for those starting from Faro.

Travel in silence, without unpleasant gasoline smells and with respect for nature to visit the natural park by kayak. In addition to everything mentioned, you will also be able to see several places such as the village of Armona, Lagoa dos Patos, among others.

Praia da Marinha

Difficulty: Medium / Intermediate

Kayak tour in contact with nature among splendid rock formations including the famous heart-shaped rocks, beautiful beaches in the crystal clear waters of the coast. A walk from Carvoeiro Beach, lasting 2 hours.

Explore this unforgettable environment for everyone. One of the most popular activities for couples, this tour can be timed to reach the caves at sunset for a special evening experience on the Algarve coast. An unforgettable tour!

Ria Formosa

DifficultyVery Easy / Beginners 

Armação de Pêra presents us with the open sea, and a kayak trip with friends or family is an excellent choice. This is a great option for beginners or travelers, the 30-minute tour leaves the rest of your day free for other experiences. In the crystal clear waters, you will be able to see some fish and be amazed by the interior of the caves.

Rio da Amoreira

Difficulty:  Easy / Beginners

We find this beach at the end of the Aljezur river, forming an estuarine lagoon system of great natural beauty with fine white sand. Next to this north-facing beach there are very beautiful rock formations, traces of an ancient dune, now fossilized and some unique plants in the world.

From the beach, dive into the depths of nature and escape to a place where you will only hear the murmur of the river, the birds and enjoy purer air. With this kayak tour, with a flexible duration, you will visit one of the most beautiful beaches in the region, go down the river while training a little and being in contact with nature.

You will definitely have a lot of fun with this outdoor activity during your vacation!

Choose your perfect trail for kayaking in the Algarve and enjoy all the wonders that nature has to offer.

Read on: 5 benefits of taking group surf lessons

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