Practical Information - Dordogne

We are open every day from Easter to All Saints’ Day.

No. The Dordogne River is classified as Level I – easy, with little to no difficulty. It is accessible to everyone in a canoe, beginners or not, provided they can swim and are in good physical condition for the chosen route.

Yes, the Dordogne is a very clean and relatively safe river. However:

In unsupervised areas, ensure your own safety – do not swim alone.

Watch over children and companions in the water.

Avoid steep or slippery banks that can cause falls or make it difficult to exit the water.

Always enter the water gradually to avoid cold shock or discomfort.

For information on water quality:
DDASS de la Dordogne – Cité Administrative – 24016 Périgueux Cedex
Email: dd24-santeenvironnement@sante.gouv.fr – Tel: +33 (0)5 53 02 27 27 – Fax: +33 (0)5 53 08 00 73

Yes, booking your canoe trip is recommended – and often required – to allow us to organize and minimize waiting times.

Two rental points are available:

Vitrac: large shaded car park.

Beynac: municipal car parks.
Our buses provide transfers both ways.

Canoe: 2, 3, or 4 seats (2 adults + 2 children).

Kayak: 1 seat.

Yes. It is mandatory to know how to swim. A buoyancy aid will be provided and must be worn.

Yes, as long as they can swim. Children under 5 are not permitted (Prefectoral Order of 12 May 2015).

Life jacket required.

Closed-toe water shoes required.

Under 12: must be supervised.

Minors alone: parental authorization required.

Usually Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, and days following rain. Weekends can be quieter, but this is not a rule.

Adapt to the weather and season. Remember you may get wet.

Comfortable clothes for movement.

Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses, hat/cap.

Water bottle (available on site).

To avoid cold shock, wet your neck regularly.

Mandatory: secure water shoes.

Forbidden: flip-flops.

Trips are self-guided, adapted to your abilities. An instructor can help you improve technique (extra cost). Supervision is mandatory for school groups, scouts, or teenagers.

Bring essentials according to weather conditions. We are not responsible for personal items taken aboard. No claims possible in case of loss/damage.

You can stop in villages for restaurants or groceries, or bring your own picnic.

Many pebble beaches are available.

Group picnics can be arranged via a caterer.

Please collect your waste – bins are available at our bases.

Yes, with a fishing license. See: Dordogne Fishing Federation

Yes, but respect the river and its hosts – do not leave litter.

Yes, at your own risk. Store in a waterproof container (available for rent) or your own waterproof bag.

Yes, you can land near them – pull your craft out of the water and take your belongings with you. Plan your trip duration and respect the latest return time.

Yes, dogs are allowed. Keep them on a leash, never tied to the canoe, and ensure they do not disturb others (including during bus transport).