Cabo de Gata Nijar Natural Park is one of southern Spain’s most striking coastal areas. Its rugged cliffs, volcanic formations, and crystal-clear waters make it a magnet for outdoor lovers. Whether you’re into paddling along volcanic coastlines, exploring hidden beaches by boat, or marveling at starry skies, there’s a tour that fits your style. We’re particularly fond of the Kayak & Snorkel Excursion in Natural Park for its active adventure and the chance to get up close with marine life. Plus, the opportunity to have photos and videos included makes it a great keepsake.
For those interested in discovering the coastline from a different perspective, the Boat Tour from San José offers a quick, scenic cruise past untouched beaches and volcanic features. And if you’re craving a peaceful experience under the stars, the Guided Night Walk with Stargazing provides a magical perspective on this quiet, dark-sky environment. Each of these tours showcases a different facet of Cabo de Gata’s natural beauty.
Below is a quick overview of our favorite activities in the park, including kayaking, boat trips, and night walks. These options capture the diverse ways you can experience this unique coastal landscape.
1. Cabo de Gata: Kayak & Snorkel Excursion in Natural Park
This 3-hour adventure combines kayaking along the rugged volcanic coastline with a guided snorkeling session. You’ll start at Playa de La Fabriquilla, where the guides will give a safety briefing and help you set out in kayaks, exploring the cliffs and beaches of the volcanic park. When you snorkel, expect to see schools of fish, colorful marine beds, and possibly even octopus hiding in the rocks.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of active paddling with an immersive underwater experience, plus the included full HD photos and videos — perfect for sharing your trip. The guides, who speak English fluently, are experts and make sure everyone feels safe, even if you’re new to kayaking or snorkeling. Reviews highlight how friendly and helpful the guides are, with Benyamin and Eric calling the activity “top entertainment.” The trip is ideal for those who want a dynamic, hands-on experience with nature while having professional photos to remember it.
Bottom Line: This tour offers a balanced mix of adventure, education, and stunning scenery, making it a top pick for active travelers who want a tangible connection with the park’s marine and coastal beauty.
2. From San José: Cabo de Gata-Nijar Natural Park Boat Tour
For a more relaxed way to see the coast, this 1.5-hour boat tour offers a scenic zodiac ride along Cabo de Gata’s coastline. You’ll glide past virgin beaches, volcanic formations, reefs, and small villages with white cottages. The boat stops at interesting spots where movies and commercials have been filmed, giving you a glimpse into the area’s cinematic appeal.
This tour is perfect for travelers who prefer to sit back and enjoy the views without the physical exertion of kayaking or hiking. The boat allows you to see hidden coves and dramatic cliffs that are difficult to access on foot, making it a good option for families or those with limited mobility. The reviews are excellent, with an average rating of 4.9/5, emphasizing how the guides are attentive and the scenery is breathtaking. You’ll get a taste of the coastline’s raw, untouched beauty without breaking a sweat.
Bottom Line: If you’re short on time but want a comprehensive visual tour of the coastline, this zodiac cruise provides an efficient and scenic overview.
3. Cabo de Gata: Guided Night Walk with Stargazing
This 3-hour evening walk combines gentle coastal strolls with expert commentary about the stars and the region’s natural history. Led by a knowledgeable guide, you’ll learn about the local flora, fauna, and geology while taking in breathtaking views under moonlight. The star gazing part of the tour takes advantage of the minimal light pollution in Cabo de Gata, offering clear views of constellations, planets, and even the Milky Way.
What makes this experience special is the combination of nature walk and astronomy — perfect for those who love quiet, contemplative evenings. Mamen, the guide, receives high praise for her lively explanations and ability to make the night sky accessible to everyone. This tour is suitable for all fitness levels and offers a peaceful contrast to daytime activities.
Bottom Line: If you’re interested in astronomy, or just want to enjoy the coast at night with minimal light pollution, this guided walk offers a memorable, educational experience.
4. Cabo de Gata: Excursión en Kayak con Snorkel. Fotos Gratis
This 3-hour kayaking and snorkeling tour has been running for over 20 years, making it one of the most experienced options in the area. Starting at Calle Carr. Antigua del Faro, guides will teach you how to paddle and snorkel before heading out into the crystal waters. You’ll pass impressive volcanic cliffs and stop at scenic photo spots, with a free photographic report shot with a GoPro HERO 12 included.
What stands out is the friendly guides and the value — at just $47 per person, it’s a cost-effective way to see Cabo de Gata from the water. Reviewers mention the guides’ helpfulness and the high-quality photos as a real plus. The itinerary includes a short kayak lesson, a 1.5-hour paddling session, a photo stop, and a snorkeling session. The marine life viewing is often described as impressive.
Bottom Line: For anyone wanting a fun, all-in-one water adventure with professional photos included, this tour hits the mark for its affordability and experience.
How to Choose
Selecting the right tour depends on your interests, fitness level, and schedule. If you want an active day with underwater exploration, the Kayak & Snorkel Excursion is ideal. For a quick scenic cruise, the Boat Tour from San José offers a relaxed way to see the coast. If you love stars or prefer a peaceful evening walk, the Night Stargazing Tour is a perfect choice. Budget travelers may prefer the Kayak with Free Photos, which combines affordability with a memorable experience.
Booking ahead is advisable, especially in summer, when these tours fill quickly. Consider your trip timing, physical comfort, and whether you want daytime action or evening serenity.
Final Thoughts
Cabo de Gata Nijar Natural Park offers a varied menu of activities, from energetic paddling and snorkeling to scenic boat rides and stargazing. If you’re after a dynamic outdoor adventure, the kayak and snorkeling trip is hard to beat. For a relaxed coast tour, the boat cruise provides stunning views without much effort. And for those who love celestial wonders, the night walk adds a peaceful, awe-inspiring touch.
No matter what your preference, these tours give you meaningful ways to enjoy the park’s natural beauty. Planning ahead and booking early will help ensure you don’t miss out on these memorable experiences. With options suited for active explorers, relaxed sightseers, and night sky enthusiasts alike, Cabo de Gata won’t disappoint.