Canoe-Kayak trips on the Dordogne

Want to relax and get a change of scenery for a day?

Come and paddle down the Dordogne River, between Corrèze and Lot. Discover the villages of Beaulieu-sur-Dordogne, Gluges, Creysse, and Meyronne, all seen from the river. A truly wonderful and liberating experience awaits you during your canoe trip with family or friends.

3 rental bases with Canoës Safaraid

Starting from Monceaux/Dordogne: "La Sauvage"

part The wildest of the Dordogne in the Corrèze region, alternating between wooded hills and fun little rapids

Open from July 10th to August 23rd,
every day from 10:30 am to 3:30 pm

Departing from Vayrac : “The essential”

This is a must-do at Safaraid ! This route takes you through cliffs and typical villages. Suitable for beginners.

Open from June 9th to September 13th,
every day from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm

Departing from Saint-Sozy: “The 3 castles”

This is the typical imagery of the Dordogne: numerous cliffs and 3 magnificent castles perched above the river.

Open from July 10th to August 30th,
every day from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm

Your questions about your canoe trip down the Dordogne:

Where can I go canoeing down the Dordogne river?

The Dordogne River offers a variety of landscapes. If you prefer a nature walk, choose a starting point in Monceaux-sur-Dordogne , where the river is wilder with a slightly stronger current and a Class 2 rapid, "Le Battut" (suitable for beginners). The Corrèze forest provides a welcome respite from the summer heat.
If you prefer the limestone cliffs of the Lot region, riverside castles, and a more tranquil experience, opt a canoe trip of 9 or 18 km from Vayrac or St-Sozy . This will allow you to enjoy the Lot landscapes from a different perspective.

Is canoeing down the Dordogne suitable for beginners?

Yes, provided you can swim more than 25 meters unaided, submerge yourself, and are over 6 years old (even when accompanied by adults).
The routes are open to beginners; we recommend starting with a 9 km route to get a feel for the activity.
We provide a life jacket to wear throughout the entire trip; it is mandatory.

For people with reduced mobility, the activity is accessible to adventurous individuals with a good aptitude for sports. Participants must be able to swim independently and reach the shore if the boat capsizes. Please note that we are in a natural environment; the embarkation and disembarkation points may be uneven and make access difficult.

How long does a canoe trip down the Dordogne River take?

Our canoe-kayak trips on the Dordogne last between 1 hour 30 minutes for 9km and 5 hours for 27km without a break at a family pace.

These times are approximate, as you can take as much time as you like on our routes! The only requirement? To be on time for your return bus 😉

For beginners, which route(s) do you recommend? 

The 9km "Minis" courses, classified as Class 1 (Vayrac-Gluges, Saint-Sozy-Pinsac), are the shortest, making them ideal for younger paddlers or those wishing to combine several activities in a single day.
The 9km Class 2 course (Monceaux- Brivezac) is no more challenging, although the water is slightly faster and cooler as it flows from the dams upstream. 
The 18km "Classic" courses, also classified as Class 1 (Vayrac- Saint-Sozy, Saint-Sozy-Souillac), are not technically more difficult than the 1.5-hour courses, but they are simply longer.

Can we bring our dog? 

It depends on whether your companion is more of a gentle otter or hates water!
Only you know them, but it's true that if they're not used to this kind of activity, boarding can be stressful for your pet, and it's possible they might capsize during the descent. Also, be mindful of their tolerance for heat, which can sometimes be high.

If you want to bring your companion along, your dog can occupy the middle seat in a dedicated canoe. Please let us know when you book. There will be a €5 charge per dog.

Please note:
You will be required to keep your dog on a leash at the activity centers and on the bus.
It is essential to remove your dog's leash and harness on the boat.
Your dog must be sociable to board the bus with other people and potentially other dogs.
life life jackets are not provided.

Read also "Our tips for a canoe-kayak trip with your dog"

Is reservation required?

Booking for a full-day or half-day excursion is not mandatory, but highly recommended during peak season. Equipment availability cannot be guaranteed for those without a reservation, especially on sunny days!
Formulti-day treks, booking is mandatory to secure equipment and reserve seats on the bus, via the booking platform.

How does the shuttle work?

The shuttle service is included in your rental.

If you plan to leave your vehicle at the arrival point, the shuttle will pick you up in the morning (check the available times) at the parking area. Reservations are required.

If you have chosen to leave your car at the starting point, the shuttle will pick you up at the end of your tour. The chosen time will be noted on your rental agreement.

Can we park on site?

Large, free parking lots are available for you to leave your vehicle at the various bases. These parking lots are private but unsupervised.

How to dress ?

In summer, a swimsuit, shorts, a t-shirt, and a hat are sufficient.
In spring and autumn, you should bring a windbreaker and warm clothes to put on during stops. Pack a dry outfit to change into upon arrival.
In all cases, closed-toe shoes such as water shoes or sneakers are necessary for walking in the water. Glasses should ideally be secured with a strap. 
Do not bring any valuables that you will not need and that you risk losing in the river.

Can we take breaks during the descent?

Canoeing is pure fun, so take your time! A break is definitely in order! Paddle downriver at your own pace, enjoy swimming, skipping stones, and picnicking on the pebble beaches… while keeping an eye on the shuttle schedule. Your bus time is indicated on your contract; please arrive 15 minutes before your chosen time.