Percé

Written by Alexander Kopp, Hannah McKinsey, Jake Evans
30/07/2025
Beautiful coastal view of Percé Rock and the village in Quebec, Canada during the daytime.
apertur2.8, Pexels

Percé is a captivating destination on Quebec's Gaspé Peninsula, most famous for the striking Percé Rock and the abundant wildlife of Bonaventure Island. It provides opportunities for exploring nature, learning about local history, and enjoying fresh seafood.

While Percé is a popular tourist destination, there are no specific areas or districts highlighted as dedicated social hubs for backpackers or general tourists in the search results. The town offers restaurants and a microbrewery, which could serve as gathering places.

Top 4 Things to do in Percé

Visitors can engage in marine excursions to observe iconic geological formations and abundant wildlife, explore a unique geopark with suspended viewpoints and hiking trails, and discover hidden waterfalls.

1. Boat Tour to Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island

Embark on a boat tour to fully appreciate the grandeur of Percé Rock, a massive natural arch, and the impressive cliffs of Bonaventure Island. This excursion offers a chance to observe thousands of nesting seabirds, including the largest accessible Northern Gannet colony in North America, and grey seals. Disembarking on Bonaventure Island allows for exploration of hiking trails leading to the gannet colony, typically requiring at least three additional hours for the island visit. It is advisable to take an early morning boat to maximize time on the island.

Cost: An adult ticket for a boat excursion around Percé Rock and Bonaventure Island, with the option to disembark, is approximately $45 (taxes included) for 2025. Children aged 6-12 cost about $25, and those under 5 are free. A direct crossing to Bonaventure Island costs around $40 for adults. Note that the cost of the cruise does not include the access fee to Bonaventure Island and Rocher Percé National Park; a daily access pass to the park is approximately $10.10 for adults (18 and over), while children 17 and under are free. Tickets are purchased at excursion ticket offices in the village; reservations are generally not accepted for individuals.

Transport: Boats depart from the Percé wharf, located in the heart of the village, which is typically within walking distance of the town center.

2. Explore Percé UNESCO Global Geopark

The Percé UNESCO Global Geopark offers an immersive experience into 500 million years of Earth's history. Visitors can hike 18 km of trails with various lookouts, including a suspended glass platform 200 meters (660 feet) above sea level that provides panoramic views of Percé. The Geopark also features the 'Tektonik' multimedia experience, a fun and interactive presentation of the area's geological history, and an indoor play area for children. Guided hikes are also available.

Cost: Access to the 18 km of trails within the Geopark is free. However, specific attractions within the Geopark have separate fees. The suspended glass platform costs approximately $15 for adults (16+) and $10 for children (6-15). The 'Tektonik' multimedia experience is also around $15 for adults and $10 for children. A shuttle service to the suspended platform is available for approximately $10.44.

Transport: The Geopark Visitor Centre is located at 180 Route 132 Ouest in Percé and is accessible from the village center. Some trails, like the one to the suspended glass platform, can be hiked in 30-45 minutes. A shuttle service is available for those who prefer not to walk to the suspended platform.

3. Visit Chutes de la Rivière Émeraude (Emerald River Falls)

Discover a natural gem at the Chutes de la Rivière Émeraude, located on the banks of the Rivière du Portage. This enchanting site features a superb waterfall cascading into an emerald-green pool, offering a refreshing experience. It is an ideal spot for nature lovers and provides a short, easy hike. Many visitors enjoy taking a dip in the cool water.

Cost: There is an entrance fee of approximately $10 per person to access the falls.

Transport: The Chutes de la Rivière Émeraude are located about 12-15 kilometers northwest of Percé. It is best reached by car, approximately a 15-minute drive from the town center. There is no public transport or taxi service specifically for this location.

4. Stroll the Percé Boardwalk and explore Cap Mont Joli

Walk along the Percé boardwalk and the pebble beach to take in views of Percé Rock and the surrounding coastal landscape. From the boardwalk, a short uphill walk leads to Cap Mont Joli, a small hill offering closer and scenic views of Percé Rock. This area also provides access to local shops, restaurants, and cafes, immersing visitors in the village's vibrant atmosphere.

Cost: Strolling the boardwalk and beach is free. There is a small entrance fee of approximately $1 to access the viewpoint at Cap Mont Joli.

Transport: The boardwalk and Cap Mont Joli are located within the village of Percé and are easily accessible by walking from most accommodations in the town center. Parking is available in various lots throughout the village.

Check out our other pages on Percé

Getting There icon Getting There Restaurants icon Restaurants Bars and Entertainment icon Bars and Entertainment Hotels icon Hotels Budget Stays icon Budget Stays

Discover destinations in Canada

Atlantic Canada
British Columbia - Interior
British Columbia - Pacific Coast
Canadian Prairies
Canadian Rockies
Northern Canada
Quebec
Southern Ontario