portugal nature tours

Walking and Hiking

Take your pick from our varied range of walking tours in Portugal.

From half day hiking tours in the wild, unspoilt beauty of the Peneda-Gerês National Park to one-week self-guided walking tours that allow you to experience mountain scenery, traditional villages, the gorgeous Atlantic coast and the UNESCO World Heritage landscape of the Douro Valley, there’s something to suit you.

We can also help you follow the ancient pilgrim trail of the Camino de Santiago from Porto to Santiago de Compostela in Spain.

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Douro International Park and the Côa Valley Walking & Culture

Self-guided | 8 days | from 1.045€

1-week self-guided walking holiday in northeast Portugal. Journey through prehistoric lands to witness dramatic rock formations, endangered wildlife, historical villages and ancient cultures.

The Other Side Of The Douro Walking & Hiking Tour

Self-guided | 8 days | from 995€

1-week self-guided walking holiday through the unexplored, rural side of the Douro wine region with orchards, vineyards and typical villages to explore.

Highlights of Northern Portugal

Self-guided | 9 days | from 1130€

Experience the best of Northern Portugal. We’ve picked the best parts of some of our favourite walking tours to create an unforgettable itinerary.

Heart and Soul of Douro Valley

Self-guided | 8 days | from 1120€

Discover the vine-filled landscape of Portugal’s most scenic wine region with spectacular views of the hillsides, rivers and valleys of the Douro Valley.

Explore Peneda-Gerês National Park

Self-guided | 8 days | from 840€

1 week self-guided walking holiday amid the magnificent mountain scenery and rural communities of Peneda-Gerês National Park.

Atlantic Route Coastal Walking Holiday

Spend a week exploring the Atlantic Route (Costa Verde), a beautiful and diverse coastline north of Porto on this gently-paced self-guided coastal trail.

Flavours of The Camino and Costa Verde

Self-guided | 8 days | from 775€

Get an unique insight into the history, gastronomy and landscapes of this little-known but richly rewarding corner of Portugal and walk some of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago.

Portuguese Camino de Santiago

Self-guided  |  14 days | from 1.040€

Walk the ancient pilgrim route of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago. Luggage transfers and hotels make the challenge enjoyable.

Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago

Self-guided  |  15 days | from 1.075€

Experience the beautiful Portuguese Coastal Way to Santiago through the coastlines of northern Portugal and Galicia.

Walk the Santiago to Finisterre Way

Self-guided | 7 days | from 570€

This quiet, beautiful Camino de Santiago to Finisterre allows you to experience the other side of this ancient route, taking you to the ‘end of the Earth.

O Salnés Spiritual Variant of the Portuguese Camino de Santiago from Valença

Self-Guided | 9 days | from 775€

This variant connects the Portuguese Way with the Translatio Route, the Arousa Sea and Ulla River Route, which is the origin of all the Santiago routes.

Douro Walking Tour from Favaios to Pinhão

Guided  | 9h | from 195€

See for yourself how the landscape changes throughout the Douro wine region as you walk from its outer limits to its very heart, the Douro River. Enjoy this guided Douro walking trail with spectacular views of the Pinhão and Douro valleys.

Valença do Douro Vineyard Walking Tour

Guided  | 5h |  from 195€

Marvel at the spectacular views of the Douro Valley during an easy walk through the vineyards. After your walk comes the opportunity to learn about the wine-making process used by a wine estate followed by a picnic.

Casal de Loivos Walking Tour

Guided | 6:30h | from 190€

Marvel at the varied scenery in the Douro wine region on a half-day walk from a northern wine village to the majestic Douro river. Visit vineyards and wineries en route and take in the stunning views from the ridge along the Pinhão Valley.

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Nature and Wildlife Tours

The best portugal luxury nature and wildlife tours.

Portugal’s landscape is as diverse as our culture. From the lush green mountains of Northern country to quiet planes of South side, get delighted by our scenic views!  Wildlife experiences await for you, whether you’d like to go on a Gerês National Park adventure, watch the dolphins of Sado estuary in their natural habitat or birdwatching in Tagus River plains! 

Adventurous tours don’t mean you have to escape luxury! Take a chance on a canoeing experience or explore the lezírias of Ribatejo, being certain that a great regional dish and a fine glass of Portuguese wine awaits for you!

Vineyards, Bulls and Horses

Night Canoeing on Alqueva Lake

Your time with us may be the experience of your lifetime, so all of our attention goes to your dream tour, since you start planning your trip, until you fly back home! Our tours are tailored made to your interests, and all our itineraries can be changed and improved according to your personal preferences!

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Natural parks, mountains, beaches and forests. There is no shortage of options for nature tours! From the north to the south of the country and especially on the islands, it is possible to enjoy the best of nature and relax.

nature tours

A Balloon ride is a unique experience, something in a lifetime, that allows you to enjoy unbelievable landscapes. During the slow flight, you will have a different perspective of the country, feeling on the top of the world. Take your camera and capture sights that you will never forget.

Birdwatching

Portugal is one of the best European countries to do birdwatching because it has an excellent concentration of different habitats. On these nature tours, either mainland or the islands, you will have the opportunity to enjoy breathtaking landscapes while following the flight of birds across a blue sky.

We are a country of sailors, so the close connection with the sea is a relevant part of our history. That reason, along with a long coastline, is why boat tours are a must in Portugal. From sailing trips to pirate ships, there are several options that you can include in your vacation itinerary.

If you are looking for emotion and adrenaline, this is the right nature tours for you. With the guidance of experts, you will explore rivers and waterfalls, overcoming obstacles, being surprised by new and unexpected situations. You will find these experiences on the mainland but especially on the islands.

Coasteering

Coasteering is an exciting adventure activity that involves progressing along the coast through rocks and the sea, using swimming, climbing, jumping, and walking. You will walk through the high cliffs overlooking the blue waters of the Atlantic and breathtaking views.

For all fishing lovers both in freshwater and in the sea, Portugal has a long coastline and a countless number of small fishing villages. For many Portuguese, fishing is the household income, so it is easy to find this type of experience in many regions, especially in the Algarve regions and in islands.

Geotourism is a type of tourism that has been gaining more and more fans, especially among those who like to take vacations discovering local customs and walk enjoying nature. It is a new form of sustainable tourism, promoting geodiversity and the geological heritage of the territory.

Helicopter Tours

Perfect for honeymoons or celebration trips, a helicopter ride is a must-do for those looking for the icing on the top! Flying over the cities of Oporto and Lisbon or even along the Douro river, it is an experience that you will never forget. Make all moments count and luxuriously spurge yourself.

Hiking Tours

The beautiful land of Portugal, with breathtaking landscapes and precious fauna and flora, offers the perfect conditions to hike. Imposing mountains, vast plains, and islands, oases of calm and tranquility in the middle of the Atlantic, with lush vegetation, extinct volcanoes, and caves full of natural sculptures.

Horse Riding

Horseback riding is an incredible experience. Walking through the dunes, until you reach the sea, at the sound of the waves, on horseback, it is as idyllic as it looks. The feeling of peace combined with communion with nature is overwhelming, and we feel like freezing that moment so that we never have to return.

Kayaking allows you to discover landscapes that are often inaccessible from land. You will easily access the calm of nature, surrounded by the soft sound of the water, and you will be amazed by this new perspective, as the land is gorgeous seen from the ocean. It is an experience that you will never forget!

For those looking for a fun activity, this is the answer! You can easily access places in nature, explore the ocean, go where you have never been without having to get too far from the shore! This sense of freedom and discovery is inspiring and allows you to connect with nature.

River cruise

Portugal has a lot of rivers, over 50, but the most famous ones are the Douro river and the Tejo (Tagus) river. Both bathe the biggest cities in the country, so it is easy to understand the allure of taking a river cruise. The perspective of each city from the river is unforgettable!

Surf lesson

The Portuguese coast has good waves throughout the year, so surfing in Portugal is something that can be done either in the Winter or Summer. There are two towns very famous for surfing: Nazaré, with the big waves, and Ericeira, the 2nd World Surfing Reserve and 1st in Europe.

Whale and Dolphin watching

If you like this type of nature tours, you must go to the Azores islands! The Azores are an archipelago of nine islands of pure nature and one of the largest whale sanctuaries in the world. On the mainland, in the Algarve and Setúbal, you can also take a boat tour to see dolphins.

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Excellent tour, absolutely stunning island. We were booked into some really nice properties. Focus bikes were in great shape and GPS navigation was spot on. If you are scared of relatively steep descents on the road, this may not be the tour for you.

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Green Global Travel

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8 Things To Do In Portugal For Nature Lovers

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. All hosted affiliate links follow our editorial policies .

Finding eco-friendly things to do in Portugal isn’t difficult, because nature is at the heart of Portuguese life.

Portugal’s people have a close relationship with their land, as they’ve had to rely on it for survival for countless generations.

For a nation that measures just 35,603 square miles, Portugal offers a spectacular mix of attractions and activities. There’s the dreamy coastline, white-washed rural villages, miles of vineyards, gently rolling hills, and an unmatched, easy-going way of life.

I’ve been lucky enough to discover the country’s beauty in-depth while writing my book,  A Year in Portugal , and the country has surprised me time and time again.

Tick off this list of things to do in Portugal for nature lovers and you’ll discover some of the country’s best wild spots, from the raging Atlantic to the plains of its quietest provinces.

1. Whale Watching in the Azores

The autonomous region of the Azores is a remote archipelago comprised of nine volcanic islands in the North Atlantic Ocean. It’s located 850 miles west of continental Portugal, 936 miles northwest of Morocco, and 1,196 miles southeast of Newfoundland, Canada.

With Sperm, Pilot, and Beaked whales (to mention a few) in its surrounding waters (plus five different species of Dolphin), the Azores is one of the world’s premier whale-watching destinations.

Hunting these majestic beasts used to be commonplace on these islands cast adrift in the Atlantic Ocean.

But since these whale hunting practices died out, the Azores have made a massive turnaround to protect these species. Now, they pride themselves on being one of the best places in the world to see them.

There are many companies that run whale-watching tours in the Azores, so ask at your hotel reception for recommendations near you.

READ MORE: The Most Beautiful Islands in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

2. Visit Penada-Gerês National Park

Penada-Gerês is the country’s only national park, and without a doubt one of the most scenic places for hiking in Portugal .

It’s nestled up in the country’s far north, sharing a border with Spain’s Serra do Xurés. But despite its big title, it’s one of the least-visited regions of Portugal, blissfully untouched by the scourge of mass tourism .

You’ll wonder why once you get there and see its stunning natural beauty. Penada-Gerês is made up of four mountain ranges, six glacial valleys, and over 90 villages, covering a space of 80,000 hectares.

Gerês Equi’Desafios is one of the best tour companies in the area, with decades of experience between the guides and outdoor activity leaders. Go hiking, biking, canyoning, explore the area on 4×4 tours, and much more with these seasoned Penada-Gerês experts.

READ MORE: The Least Visited National Parks in Europe

3. Birdwatching at Lake Alqueva

Located in the Alentejo region of western Portugal, Lake Alqueva covers 96 square miles. It’s the largest man-made lake in Europe, and has become one of the country’s best birdwatching destinations.

Groups of Cranes and Cormorants can often be found here: The latter have been attracted to Lake Alqueva more and more since the dam was finished back in 2002.

There are also plenty of wading birds– such as Black-winged Stilts and Common or Green Sandpipers– that pick at prey across the shallows on the shores of the lake.

If you take a nature tour around this area, just keep your eyes peeled. You’re bound to see some of our fine-feathered friends!

READ MORE: The 10 Largest Lakes in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

4. Watch the Endangered Iberian lynx

The Iberian Lynx is one of the most endangered cats on the planet, and the most threatened carnivore in Europe.

Population numbers for this beautiful creature in Portugal declined to almost zero in the 20 th  century.

It’s only due to captive breeding programs in the Algarve that they are still here today. But there’s still hope: 2016 saw the appearance of the first cub born in the wild of Portugal in 40 years .

Most of the Lynx-spotting tours run in southwest Spain, as this is where most of the remaining animals live. But in Portugal you can see them in captivity at the National Breeding Centre for the Iberian Lynx.

Note that visitors are not actually allowed in the centre. But if you head up to the observatory, just a few minutes’ drive away, there’s a telescope that you can use to look down on these magnificent creatures.

READ MORE:   The Iberian Lynx (Endangered Species Spotlight)  

5. Hiking in Madeira

As a volcanic mass cast adrift in the Atlantic Ocean off the west coast of Africa, Madeira is one of the most scenic places in Portugal.

These islands are usually associated with cruise or package holidays. But that doesn’t mean visiting Madeira isn’t one of the best things to do in Portugal for nature lovers .

The dramatic peaks here offer prime opportunities for an ecotourism adventure that’s far removed from the mass tourism crowd.

Hiking is one of the best outdoor activities here. Many of the main island’s best hikes revolve around Pico Ruiva, Madeira’s highest peak.

Follow the well-marked trails here to connect with jaw-dropping views across Madeira’s rusty red landscape, and navigate coastal paths to find yourself on the nail-biting cliffsides.

READ MORE: The Best Mountains in the World (World Travel Bucket List)

6. Cycle Touring

With its wide-open vista and picturesque landscapes, Portugal makes for a perfect place to take a  tour by bicycle.

You can cover a lot of ground without having to cross many difficult mountain regions, the roads are very quiet, and it’s very cheap .

And because it’s a small country, you’ll be able to see a lot on a cycle tour of Portugal in as little as 10-14 days.

The Serra da Estrela , a natural park and the highest mountain range in Portugal, makes for particularly scenic rides. Here you can glide through glacial valleys and take in the jaw-dropping views across the peaks, all on eco-friendly pedal power!

READ MORE: What is Glamping? A Guide to Green  Accommodations 

7. Yoga Eco Retreat

Yoga retreats are are among the most popular things to do in Portugal. Small, independent companies run eco-friendly yoga breaks all across the country.

You’ll find opportunities to seek your inner zen from the dramatic coastline of the Algarve to the depths of the quiet Alentejo or in the hills further north.

Many of these camps are based on properties that uphold a responsible mindset, with strong “green” values.

Monte Velho Eco Retreat , located on the west coast of the Algarve near Carrapateira, is just such a place. The centre runs year-round yoga retreats in which you can improve your skills on a week-long break as well as relax on the nearby quiet beaches.

The accommodation here is run as self-sufficiently as possible, with food sourced from their own garden and power to the house created with solar and wind energy.

READ MORE: What Is An Eco Lodge? 

8. Conquer the Camino Portugués

Portugal’s country-spanning hiking routes (which are frequently ranked among the World’s Best Hikes ) are often overshadowed by Spain’s world famous Camino de Santiago.

But did you know that there is a Camino Portugués? This alternative, under-the-radar route runs from either Porto or Lisbon up to Santiago de Compostela. The former trail runs just over 143 miles, while the latter runs 385 miles.

Hiking the Camino Portugués is no mean feat, and will take a few months at least. But it’s widely considered among the best things to do in Portugal for nature lovers .

And the traditional villages, mind-blowing sunsets, and camping on beaches you’ll see along the way make the arduous journey worth it. – Emma Higgins

Best Places to Stay in Portugal 

It’s not difficult to find eco-friendly accommodation in Portugal, but you do have to be careful to avoid greenwashing.

There are some parts of the country where tourism has been desperately over-developed, particularly in the Algarve. The region is packed full of resorts that don’t run in a sustainable way, favouring footfall over environmental impact.

However, look hard enough and you’ll find a wealth of responsibly-managed hotels and eco lodges to choose from:

Compare Hotels in Portugal

In the Algarve, the further you move away from the coast, the easier it is to find eco-friendly places to stay. Try Monte Rosa , a small rural retreat with just 10 rooms. It’s located near the sleepy village of Barão de São João, in the western Algarve. Read Reviews.

Stay at Imani Country House , near Évora in the Alentejo, for a stylish sustainable hotel. There, solar power is used for hot water; firewood in winter is sourced from forest clean-ups; and 80% of their waste is recycled. Plus, the house is situated on a 32-acre property where you couldn’t feel more cut-off from the chaotic modern world. Check Rates or Read Reviews . 

GUIDES WE RECOMMEND FOR PORTUGAL: CLICK PHOTO TO LOOK INSIDE ↓

About the Author

Emma Higgins is a British travel writer with a penchant for stories. She has been traveling for three years and has lived in Spain, Canada, and Thailand, collecting tales along the way and sharing them on her blog, Gotta Keep Movin’. She has also worked in digital marketing and social media management within the travel industry for the last two years, helping brands and businesses connect with their customers.

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Scheduled Group Birdwatching Tours in Portugal & Spain

Private Birdwatching Tours in Portugal & Spain

Bird Photography Tours

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Birdwatching Day Tours from Lisbon

Birdwatching Day Tours from the Algarve

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A warm welcome to the birds & nature tours portugal website.

Birds & Nature Tours Portugal is the longest established Portuguese company specifically dedicated to birds and birding tours.

We are the local operator for most of the main North American and European birdwatching tour companies and are passionate in our determination to deliver an unrivalled and fulfilling experience (please check TripAdvisor for client comments and reviews of their experiences on our tours).

We specialize in the Iberian Peninsula (Portugal & Spain) and offer a wide variety of programmes, all concentrated upon guided birding and bird photography tours.

Birds & Nature offers birdwatching and bird photography tours of varying duration in Portugal and Spain, as well as to other countries, for which you can make a reservation directly.

For some examples of these tours, please refer to:

Scheduled Group Birdwatching Tours in Portugal and Spain

Private Birdwatching Tours in Portugal and Spain

Bird Photography Tours Overview

In addition to the above tours, we also offer birdwatching and bird photography day tours.

For some examples, please refer to:

Birdwatching Day Tours from Lisbon Overview

Birdwatching Day Tours from the Algarve Overview

The guided tours organized by Birds & Nature are designed to offer you the best of Iberian birding, with a specific emphasis on what you want to see or photograph.

Our tours are adapted to cover a wide range of experience and abilities, from novice to expert and although focused on birding, are also suitable for the general naturalist and the visitor who wants to see something of the Portuguese and Spanish countryside as well. We also try to show you the rich history which has spawned villages, towns, buildings, monuments and archaeological sites of considerable interest, to provide opportunities to sample the food and wine which is, in itself, a good reason to visit and to take advantage of the pleasant climate and safety of the countryside, which only enhance the experience of the visitor.

Our guides are all ornithologists and birders with a deep knowledge of the birdlife of Iberia and possess the kind of detailed local knowledge necessary to find those tricky or difficult species. To learn more about our company and the team, please click here.

Birds & Nature is committed to contributing to nature conservation and biodiversity and this is an objective that we try to implement in every activity we organize. In addition, we are continuing to develop specific conservation projects with the same objective. To discover more about these Birds & Nature projects, click here.

Click here to enjoy Birds of Southern Portugal, a film illustrating the potential of Southern Portugal – Lisbon, Alentejo and the Algarve – as a destination for birdwatching, co-produced by Birds & Nature. Several of our tours take place in the areas described in the film.

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WHY CHOOSE Portugal

Portugal has seven regions, which in itself indicates that there is a lot to visit and get to know, but we have at least 10 reasons why it is a good choice and on the list of trips you should do in your lifetime.

The country’s history and culture, gastronomy and wines, are among the main attractions, not to mention the beaches, surfing, music festivals, golf, the varied landscapes and, above all, the Portuguese people, who are seen as affable, open and sincere.

The recent award from the  World Travel Awards , which considered Portugal the  World’s Best Destination  has just  confirmed the current trend, also acknowledged by many guides, travel writers, bloggers and the media from around the world specialising in travel and tourism. And do you know why Portugal has been on everyone’s lips? We’ll give you a clue here.

Life passes us by, time slips through our fingers. Decide your next stop, pick your next destination.

Can’t skip life.

Can’t skip us.

Can’t skip Portugal.

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Portugal: Fabulous Birding & Culture

October 10 - 22, 2024

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We invite you to join Naturalist Journeys on this exciting Portugal birding tour. Portugal offers a fantastic diversity of habitats replete with birds in a relatively small geographic area; we visit several species-rich areas without having to travel long distances. Less-well-known to birders, Portugal hosts many of the most sought-after species such as Great Bustard, Azure-winged Magpie, Great-spotted Cuckoo, and Booted Eagle, as well as iconic European species such as Eurasian Hoopoe and Common Kingfisher. Join us on this Portugal nature tour to bird and explore three fabulous regions of the country that include extensive wetlands around Lisbon, the steppes of Alentejo to the north, and then south to the Algarve and coastal regions. Fall migration runs from August into early November; our timing on this Portugal birding tour is great for arriving waders, waterbirds, and raptors. By October temperatures in the vast and arid Alentejo are cooling down and every day brings overwintering species in from northern latitudes. Coastal and sea birding while in the Algarve is exceptional, with far fewer birders and crowds. Over 20,000 water-birds winter regularly. This Portugal tour presents a great blend of nature and culture, with visits planned to some of the most interesting historical and cultural sites of Portugal in Évora, Mértola, Sagres, and Lisbon. The country’s storied cultural heritage is on display throughout the whole of our route.

Tour Highlights

• Relax in charming accommodations in Lisbon; city fun and within a half hour’s drive we explore two remarkable wetland areas
• Find Great Bustard, Common Crane, Stone Curlew, and Black-bellied Sandgrouse in the Alentejo
• Explore the bluffs and hills of the Guadiana Valley Natural Park, noted for Iberian Imperial, Golden, and Bonelli's Eagles
• Indulge in Portugal’s many culinary delights and great wines, including a fun wine-tasting event held amid grapevines and olive groves
• Discover the Algarve, a region rich in protected wetland areas situated on a major fly-way for migrants from Africa—fabulous for waders and passerines
• Stand on Europe’s most Southwestern point, Cape St. Vincent, as raptors in migration pass overhead
• Embark on a pelagic trip off Sagres to see a wide range of seabirds
• Marvel at the colors of Eurasian Hoopoe, Common Kingfisher, and European Bee-eater
• Walk through old Cork Oak forests
• Combine birding with culture with a chance to walk through historic plazas and squares en route to an array of castles, cathedrals, museums, Roman ruins, and promenades
• Experience Portugal’s rich cultural heritage at top historical and cultural sites in Évora, Mértola, Sagres and Lisbon

Trip Itinerary

Itineraries are guidelines; variations in itinerary may occur to account for weather, road conditions, closures, etc. and to maximize your experience.

Thurs., Oct. 10 : Arrivals in Lisbon!

Welcome to Lisbon, Portugal. Today we meet you at either the Lisbon Airport or if you’ve arrived early, your Lisbon hotel, for travel to our lodgings in Alcochete (about ten miles from the airport). You may recognize the name of this small city for its association with Europe’s second longest bridge, the Vasco da Gama Bridge, which spans the Tagus River with its impressive cable-stay construction. It is a charming location and gives us close access to the Tagus Estsuary. Accommodations in Alcochete (D)

Fri., Oct. 11 & Sat., Oct. 12 : Two Days Birding & Exploring Lisbon

Portugal offers a fantastic diversity of habitats—and consequently birds—in a relatively small area. It is hard to imagine how many species we find with ease at the Tagus Estuary and the Sado Estuary Nature Reserves—both within a half-hour drive of Lisbon city center and the international airport. Our time in the Lisbon area will let you experience a variety of habitats within the Tagus Estuary Nature Reserve, including the inter-tidal mudflats and salt marshes of Hortas, the salt pans of Atalaya, Ribeira das Enguias, and Samouco, and the Barroca d’Alva rice fields and pastures. Other interesting sites and habitats in the Tagus Reserve include the open fields, reed beds, lagoons, inter-tidal mudflats and salt marshes of the Ponta da Erva area. We also have some fun as we explore—enjoy a wine tasting at Companhia das Lezírias, as well as a birding visit to the cork oak woodlands of Pancas, still in the Tagus estuary. Finally, we explore the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve, namely the salt pans, inter-tidal mudflats and salt marshes of Mitrena, Mourisca, and Zambujal. The protected wetland areas between the Tagus and Sado estuaries may reveal to us: Greater Flamingo, White Stork, Eurasian Spoonbill, Glossy Ibis, Squacco and Purple Herons, Booted Eagle, Black-winged Kite, Little Bustard, Collared Pratincole, Pallid Swift, Bluethroat, Dartford, Savi’s and Melodious Warblers, Iberian Chiffchaff, Iberian Grey and Woodchat Shrikes, Spotless Starling, Rock Sparrow, European Serin, Cirl Bunting, and an excellent selection of ducks, waders, gulls and terns. Accommodations in Alcochete, across the Tagus River from Lisbon (B,L,D)

Sun., Oct. 13—Wed., Oct. 16 : Four Days of Exploring the Alentejo in Detail

Leaving the Lisbon-area wetlands in the morning, we continue our mix of activities to highlight birding, history and culture. We first head toward Mértola, in the Alentejo region, visiting the city of Évora, a UNESCO World Heritage site prized for its whitewashed houses, Gothic Cathedral dating to the 12th century, and other Gothic and Baroque churches including the unique Chapel of the Bones. Along our route today, is a famous site, the Almendres Cromlech which contains several megalithic menhirs (standing stone structures) dating back to the 6th millennium BC. This complex has over 95 granite monoliths with a path winding through Association of these structures with others in the area suggest an astronomical function to the structures in alignments for the winter solstice. Then it’s on to the great Castro Verde rolling plains and the bluffs and hills of the Guadiana Valley Natural Park, including Mértola, Mina de São Domingos, and Alcaria Ruiva. The expansive plains and hilly terrains of these regions support Great Bustard, Common Crane, Red Kite, Montagu's Harrier, Lesser Kestrel, Stone Curlew, Black-bellied Sandgrouse, Great Spotted Cuckoo, European Roller, Calandra Lark, Tawny Pipit, Rufous Bush Robin, and many more birds. The bluffs and hills of the Guadiana Valley Natural Park host species such as: Black Stork, Iberian Imperial, Golden and Bonelli's Eagles, Eurasian Black and Griffon Vultures, Turtle Dove, Eurasian Eagle Owl, White-rumped Swift, Iberian Green Woodpecker, Eurasian Crag Martin, Red-rumped Swallow, Black-eared Wheatear, Blue Rock Thrush, Golden Oriole, Spanish Sparrow, Hawfinch and Rock Bunting. Based in the town of Mértola, we can enjoy time to visit the main museums, additional archaeological sites, and specialty shops. It is here that we experience some of the best local foods and wines of our journey. It’s a luxury to have four nights—unpack and settle in! Here we are near the Spanish border on the confluence of the Guadiana and Oeiras Rivers. The town grew from its start as a fortified medieval village surrounding an impressive castle on its central hilltop. This is an ancient port city again with influence of early Phoenicians, then Romans, Moors and Christians during the Reconquest of Portugal. The whole town feels like a living museum of successive civilizations built upon each other. Accommodations for four nights in Mértola (B,L,D, all days)

Thurs., Oct. 17 – Sat., Oct. 19 : On to the Scenic Southern Coastal Region

With just a short 45-minute drive to Tavira, we reach the coastal region of Algarve, a region rich in protected wetland areas and situated on a major fly-way for migrants from Africa, and notable in particular for waders and passerines. We are here at a key time in the migration period, and this area—including Salgados lagoon—offers abundant opportunities to observe migrating birds. Birding stops here will include the complex network of canals, saline flats and salt pans of the Castro Marim Nature Reserve and the Tavira area of Ria Formosa Natural Park. Other habitats of Ria Formosa including dunes, open water, inter-tidal mudflats, salt marshes, salt pans, reed beds, lagoons and pine in the regions of Olhão, Quinta do Lago, and Ludo. During our time here, we also visit the Sagres and Cape St. Vincent areas, Cape St. Vincent being a natural bottleneck for migration and a splendid place to search for the endangered Balearic Shearwater as well as a few other species. A tour highlight experience is a pelagic trip off Sagres. Just a few miles offshore, we start to understand why the Algarve is considered such a crossroads, with birds moving along the coast west to east (Atlantic to Mediterranean) and north to south (Europe to Africa). Some of the species we may find during the boat trip include: a variety of shearwaters (Great Cory’s, Scopoli’s, Sooty, Manx and Balearic), smaller Wilson’s, Leach’s and European storm-petrels (Wilson’s, Leach’s and European Storm Petrels) and predatory skuas—all three being possible (Pomarine, Arctic and Great). We keep our eye open for rarities such as Audouin’s Gull amid the more regularly seen and sometimes numerous Northern Gannet, Kittiwake and Lesser Black-backed Gull. Ria Formosa Park and Castro Marim, with their intricate maze of inlets and lagoons, are unique birding sites in Portugal for finding rare and highly localized species such as Audouin’s and Slender-billed Gulls and Lesser Short-toed Lark. These are also excellent spots for getting close views of scarce species like Little Bittern and Purple Swamphen. Common bird species in the Algarve include Little Owl, Red-necked Nightjar, Eurasian Hoopoe, Common Kingfisher, European Bee-eater, Sardinian and Spectacled Warblers, and Iberian Magpie. Tavira, our base for three nights, dates back to the Bronze Age. Today it is a comfortable, small city astride the Gilão River at its junction with the Atlantic Ocean, Tavira is a delightful base from which to explore. It holds Roman Moorish and Christian influences. In its center, a medieval castle affords us great city views of old and new, whitewashed walls, tile roofs—all with the Atlantic Ocean behind. Across from it, Tavira Island has a long, sandy beach, plus salt pans that attract flamingos, spoonbills and other wading birds. Accommodations for three nights in Tavira (B,L,D, all days)

Sun., Oct. 20 : Return to Lisbon | Estuary and Ricefield Birding

Finally, we will return to Lisbon, using the travel day to explore inter-tidal mudflats, salt marshes and rice fields of Comporta and Carrasqueira, part of the Sado Estuary Nature Reserve. Accommodations in Lisbon (B,L,D)

Mon., Oct. 21 : Highlights and Historical Sites of Lisbon

We cap off our trip with a fascinating day in the city of Lisbon, with time to experience the main squares and avenues, downtown Baixa, some of the hilltop districts, the Castle of São Jorge, the cathedral, and, in Belém, the historic seafaring area from which the Portuguese caravels departed to explore the world. We will also see the Monument to the Discoveries and two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: the beautiful Tower of Belém and the Gothic-era Jerónimos Monastery. Enjoy a great final dinner with time to recount our birding and cultural highlights of the journey. Accommodations in Lisbon (B,L,D)

Tues., Oct. 22: Departures

Plan to leave at your convenience today but remember, for International flights, it is recommended that you be at the airport three hours prior to your flight.

Cost of the Journey

Cost of the Journey is $6590 DBL / $7395 SGL, based on double occupancy, per person.

The tour price includes airport transfers, 12 nights’ accommodations, all meals from dinner Day One through breakfast Day 13, professional guide services, park and preserve entrance fees, and miscellaneous program expenses.

Cost of the journey does not include airfare from your home to Lisbon, Portugal or items of a personal nature, such as drinks from the bar, telephone, and local guide gratuities (at your discretion, we will give some guidelines).

Please plan to make air travel plans only after the minimum group size has been met. We will send you a confirmation email as soon as the trip has been confirmed.

Arrival and Departure Airport: Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) in Lisbon

Arrival Details:  Plan to arrive October 10 at your leisure

Departure Details:  Plan flights for October 22 at your leisure

Travel Tip:  You may wish to arrive a day early and rest up from your travels. The easiest option would be to book an early night at our first night tour hotel, the Quinta da Praia das Fontes. Our hotel is about 25 minutes from the airport in Alcochete and can be reached via taxi or Uber. You can also work with your travel agent to find a hotel to suit your needs. We’ll visit a lot of fascinating sites in Lisbon on our last day of the tour, but if you want to explore the city even more, there are plenty of fun things to do! Oceanário de Lisboa is one of the largest aquariums in Europe and has over 450 different species. If you’re interested in art, then a visit to the Calouste Gulbenkian Museum is a must-see in Lisbon. It has works spanning 5,000 years and is considered one of the most important private art collections in the world. Or if you want to stretch your legs after a long flight, Lisbon is a great city to wander around the cobbled streets and check out the delicious restaurants, architecture, and shops. And don’t forget to try the pastéis de nata, a delectable traditional Portuguese pastry.

Hotel Recommendations: If you wish to arrive early and prefer to stay in Lisbon, we recommend: Janelas Verdes . Convenient to just stay on, and it is in a great location. Lisboa Pessoa Hotel is another great choice in the city.

• Visas are not required of US citizens for stays of this length. Expected changes to entrance requirements in Europe have been delayed until 2025. More information is available at European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) website .

Browse below for trip reports and species lists from past versions of this and other tours from this destination.

• Species List
• Trip Report

Gerard Gorman is a deeply experienced birding and wildlife guide, particularly in Central and Eastern Europe where his knowledge of the wildlife sites of the region is second to none, having visited every country from the Baltic to the Black Sea. In recent years he has led several Naturalist Journeys groups across Europe and Africa. Gerard is also an author, and his books include Central and Eastern European Wildlife (Bradt, 2008) and Birding in Eastern Europe (WildSounds, 2006). His main ornithological interest focuses on woodpeckers, and he is regarded as an authority, authoring an unprecedented seven books on the family, including the acclaimed Woodpeckers of the World (Bloomsbury, 2014) and Woodpecker (Reaktion, 2017). His latest works include, The Wryneck (Pelagic Publishing, 2022), the definitive monograph on this fascinating species, and The Green Woodpecker (Pelagic Publishing, 2023). Gerard is also interested in wildlife tracking, and his Pocket Guide to Tracks and Signs of European Wildlife (Bloomsbury) was published in 2014.

Photo credit: probirder.com

Other trips with Gerard Gorman

Essential Information +

This information is important for being prepared for your journey; we want you to have the best experience possible. If you only read one section, this one is key!

Ahead of Your Tour

• Make sure your passport is valid for six months AFTER your return date from Portugal.  We advise having at least one blank passport page per entry stamp.
• Please check current CDC recommendations for travel to Portugal and consult with your doctor about general travel vaccinations you should have as precaution for travel. See the “Health and Inoculations” section below.
• Travel insurance in case of serious medical emergency is strongly recommended. Full health coverage and repatriation is available through Allianz Travel Insurance .
• Plan your flight reservations arriving into Lisbon Airport (LIS). Send a copy of your itinerary to the Naturalist Journeys office please.
• Soft sided luggage/duffel bags are easiest for packing the vans. Pack essential medications in your carry-on luggage, as well as one day of clothing and optics in case of luggage delay.

Arrival into Lisbon, Portugal (LIS)

Please note: If you are delayed in travel, please refer to your emergency contact list, and contact your ground operator, with a copy to our office. You may also phone or text your guide. Quite a few of your guides will set up a WhatsApp connection so you can also reach your guide by phone.

Please plan to arrive at Lisbon's Humberto Delgado Airport (LIS) at your leisure on the first day of the tour. Upon arrival in Lisbon, you will pass through immigration and customs and exit to the main terminal area. Your emergency contact sheet will be helpful at Immigration. At the airport, there are ATMs to withdraw money and change desks where US Dollars can be changed for EUROs. You may also do that ahead of time in most major airports.

We will coordinate your pick-ups close to your departure with operators and guides once we have all travelers’ completed travel information. Please make sure we have both your ARRIVAL and DEPARTURE information, so they can plan this. It is imperative that we have your correct TRAVEL information; we appreciate if you email us a copy of your flight reservation. They will check internet for your updated flight information.

Please check the Travel Details section of this tour for additional information and updates.

Departures from Lisbon, Portugal (LIS)

Plan departures at your leisure on the last day of the tour. Remember that you need to be at the airport three hours ahead of your scheduled flight on this return. We will provide transfers or arrange for taxis to the airport for all departures.

Passports, Visas & Documents

You must have a passport valid for six months AFTER your scheduled return to the U.S. Please check that expiration date! Your passport should have at least one blank page per entry stamp. The blank pages need to say “Visas” at the top. Pages marked “Amendments and Endorsements” will not be accepted. If you are from another country, please contact the Embassy of Portugal website for guidelines.

It is recommended to check for changes 60-90 days before your tour departs but, at the time of writing, a tourist visa is not required of US citizens for stays of this length. Requirements requiring visitors from more than 60 visa-free countries (including the U.S.) to get a travel authorization when entering Europe for brief stays have been delayed until 2025. Learn more at  European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) website .

Information for U.S. citizens can be found:

https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/Intercountry-Adoption/Intercountry-Adoption-Country-Information/Portugal.html

As a precaution for lost or misplaced documents you carry on your person during travel, we highly recommend you keep hard and digital backup copies on your phone (either photo or PDF scan), as well as a hard copy left with your emergency contact at home. The recommended important documents to copy include, but are not limited to; your passport ID page, travel visa, the front and back of your credit card(s), the airline barcode on your luggage. This will greatly expedite getting new ones if necessary – we hope everyone will always keep travel documents close so that losing them will not be an issue.

General Health & Inoculations Information – Be Prepared!

We will share your health information with your guide. This information will be kept confidential but is very important as we want to be best prepared in case of medical emergency. Bring any prescription medications with you and it’s best if you have a copy of the prescription in case of loss. A supply of standard over the counter medications for common ailments is recommended.

We recommend that all travelers should be up to date with routine vaccinations before traveling to any destination. These include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR), diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis, varicella (chickenpox), polio and your yearly flu shot. The CDC recommends current vaccines for Hepatitis A and Typhoid.

The Center for Disease Control (CDC)'s website is helpful or you may reach them by phone at (800) CDC-INFO.

You should bring an adequate supply of any prescription drugs you use, and in addition, a list of generic names of your medicine as “back-up” in case it is necessary to purchase drugs while you are there. It is a good idea to pack any drugs you take regularly in your carry-on luggage, keeping medications in their original, labeled containers. It is also a good idea to carry with you an up-to-date record of known allergies or chronic medical problems so that emergency treatment, if necessary, can be carried out without endangering your health. If you have severe allergies talk to your doctor about carrying an EPIPEN and notify your guides. We recommend that each individual or couple carry a kit of aspirin, decongestants, antacid, and Pepto-Bismol or other anti-diarrhea medication, as well as an extra pair of glasses or contact lenses.

Weather & Climate

Portugal generally has cool, dry autumns. Highs average in the low-70s°F, and lows in the mid-50s°F., with comfortable humidity. Rain and wind are both possible throughout. Come prepared with layers of clothing, including a rain jacket that can double as a windbreaker, and an umbrella. Bring walking boots for use in the day and more comfortable shoes for meals and relaxing.

Packing, Clothing & Laundry

Please, pack light. And please pack your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your CARRY-ON . Dress is very informal and comfortable throughout the trip. You may wish to change for dinners, but casual dress is suitable at all locations.

Dressing in layers is the best way to be comfortable. Long-sleeved shirts and long pants make ideal field clothing, as they are more protective from sun, insects, and vegetation. Choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty – and things that are comfortable and easy. Please avoid white or brightly colored outerwear for the field.

Please consider bringing a water bottle or two; while we will have water at all times during our trip, an enormous amount of plastic waste is generated by beverage containers that can be avoided if you bring a bottle to refill.

Laundry services can be arranged at some of our hotels, those where you stay multiple nights. But it is most convenient if you are content with hand laundry.

Spending Money

The EURO is the official currency of Portugal. For the current exchange rate, please refer to an online converter tool like www.xe.com , or your bank. We advise you carry a mix of different types of payments, such as the local currency, an ATM card, and a credit card.

If you wish to exchange money before you leave on your trip, you may be able to do so through your bank or an exchange office. Possible locations are your departing airport in the U.S., a travel agent, or a AAA office. It may be helpful to arrive with some local currency just in case you run into an “out of order” ATM or a local bank holiday.

You can also exchange your money in country. The easiest way is to withdraw funds from a local ATM. ATMs are widely available in both Portugal and will typically offer you the best exchange rate. The ATM will give local money and your bank will convert that into US Dollars. Many banks charge a fee of $1 - $5 each time you use a foreign ATM. Others may charge you a percentage of the amount you withdraw. Check with your bank before departure. You must become familiar with how to use your ATM card and PIN number ahead of the journey. Hotels can also change money. If you plan to exchange cash in country, bring large U.S. bill ($50 or $100) in good condition that will give you the better rate when exchanging to local currency.

Credit cards are commonly accepted in Portugal. You will want to bring more than one brand of card (one Visa, and one MasterCard; American Express is less accepted), if possible. A EUROCARD or ACCESS sign displayed means the establishment accepts MasterCard. Not every shop will accept every card. Some smaller shops and restaurants require cash, so it is always a good idea to ask before making a purchase. Also, we recommend that you advise your bank or credit card company that you will be traveling to Portugal to avoid questions, card freezes, or charges. If you have a choice of cards, bring one with no foreign exchange fees. Traveler’s checks are not widely accepted and can be difficult to exchange. We do not advise you use them.

Many people ask how much money to plan to bring for spending money. Part of that depends on how much you want to shop. Typical items people purchase include local souvenirs and T-shirts, artworks, drinks before or with dinner, maps, and natural history books.

Tipping throughout the tour is at your discretion. Some guidelines follow. At larger (mostly city) hotels, tip maids and bar service as you would at home. At eco-lodges, there is typically a staff tip box in a public area; the going rate per person is $6-$10 a day, which is shared among staff for maid service, and general staff service at the lodges. Gratuities for group meals are already included. Your Naturalist Journeys host will take care of smaller tips such field trip services by boat drivers, night drive outings, single activities. Your additional tip is encouraged for birding tour guides and drivers who are with you for several days or the full trip; $10-$15 per day per guest is standard for guide service, and half that for a driver. If you have more than one local guide at a location, they will share the daily amount. We encourage tipping for the local teams hosting you; anything extra for your Naturalist Journeys host is at your discretion.

Please note that these suggested tips are quoted in U.S. Dollars. You will want to convert and tip in EUROs.

Cell Phones & Internet Service

You can make international calls from most of our hotels. The country code for the USA is 1.

International calls to the U.S.: Dial 00 + (1) +country code+ area code + number

To call Portugal, the USA exit code is 011, then dial 351 + phone number

If you plan on using your cell phone on this trip, please check with your wireless provider to see if your phone and service will work in your destination country. Ask for “international roaming” to be activated on your phone or purchase a travel pass through your carrier. Or you can buy a local SIM card at the airport and insert this in your mobile phone (just make certain your phone can accept one).

If your phone can connect to Wi-Fi, you may be able to make voice and video calls free of charge. Please contact your cell phone provider for further details. Another option if you have access to Wi-Fi, is to download and use smartphone apps like Skype, WhatsApp, or Viber to send text messages, and make voice calls, or video calls. Many smartphones, tablets, or laptops come with one of these apps pre-installed or you can download for free. If bringing a laptop or tablet, get a good dustcover to protect it at all times.

Make sure if you do NOT want to use your cell phone that you turn off your cellular data. You could incur huge charges if you are not on Wi-Fi. Putting your phone in airplane mode if you mainly use it for photos will save the battery as well.

Electricity

Portugal uses northern European standards, with voltage at 230V, higher than in the United States (120V), and a frequency of 50 Hz. E lectrical sockets (outlets) are primarily "Type F" and accept the standard continental European dual round-pronged plugs.

You will most likely need to bring a power plug adapter, and a voltage converter to use appliances or devices from the U.S. that do not automatically detect and convert voltages. To be sure, check the label on your appliance. More information can be found at power-plugs-sockets.com .

Portugal is in the Western European Time Zone, which is 5 hours ahead of New York (Eastern Daylight Time). Portugal does observe Western European Summer Time (or Daylight Savings Time). A great website if you want to tell someone to check ahead of calling you is www.timeanddate.com .

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at [email protected] or telephone at our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey!

Pace & Protocols +

Pace of the tour & what to expect.

You will receive a Schedule-at-a-Glance and list of hotels (our eContact List) a few weeks before your departure. This will serve as an outline for each day and alert you to any recent changes made in the schedule or to our hotels, if needed.

Our journeys are set up to follow the rhythm of nature. Our focus is on birding and nature; we offer full, well-planned field days and often get up early for that magical time around dawn. We generally follow the published itinerary, but we stay flexible to the weather, wildlife opportunities and the interests of the group. Your guide will keep you apprised of the next day’s schedule at each evening meal, noting what to bring and what to prepare for. Questions and/or concerns are welcome.

The pace of our Naturalist Journeys tours is moderate; to fully participate you should be able to get in and out of vehicles several times a day, and walk 1-3 miles over uneven terrain.  It is important to participate with a flexible attitude as adjustments may be made in our schedule to make the most of our time in the field or for other purposes at your guide's discretion. We are not a “listing” bird company that drills down on target species, but at times we do wait for those special species unique to the places we visit. During the day, we take time to stop for photos and for educational opportunities to learn about conservation projects, landscapes, and geology. We appreciate other taxa as well as birds, with mammals often the biggest draw but plants and butterflies are also very popular. Our clients often lend their own expertise to the mix.

We like to make meals a fun and memorable part of the experience, too. Breakfasts are often at hotels, and we carry snacks, fruit, and water in the vans each day. Lunches are a mix of picnics in the field (weather dependent) and a chance to dine with locals at small cafes and restaurants. For dinner, we pride ourselves in our homework to keep up with the best choices for dining, choosing restaurants with atmosphere that specialize in local foods. On occasion we keep dinner simple to go back out in the field for sunset wildlife viewing or night walks. In some remote locations, our choices are limited. If you are tired, room service for dinner may be an option you can choose.

Naturalist Journeys International Trips: Guide Role

Naturalist Journeys supports ecotourism and the development of excellent local guides. Once we know our international partners and guides well, we can send out small groups working directly with these trusted partners, adding a Naturalist Journeys guide to assist the local expert when we have a group of 6-7 or more. This helps us keep your costs down while retaining tour quality. The local guide is your main guide. You can expect your Naturalist Journeys guide to be well-researched and often they are experienced in the destination, but their role is not to be primary, it is to help to organize logistics, help you find birds, mammals, and interesting other species in the field, keep reports, help facilitate group interactions, and to keep the trip within Naturalist Journeys' style. Local guides live in the countries we travel to, know the destinations intimately, and are often the strongest force for conservation in their countries. They open many doors for us to have a rich experience.

Smoking is not permitted in any vehicle or in any situation where the group is participating in an activity together, such as a vehicle excursion or a guided walk. Please respect all designated smoking areas at hotels and restaurants.

Transportation

As a courtesy to each other, we ask that all travelers please rotate seating. On international trips we may all be in one small bus, on some trips we are in vans, particularly the roomy Sprinter Vans when available. Some areas require us to be in smaller 4-wheel drive or safari vehicles. Rotation allows you to sit with different drivers and alternate front and back seating.

Photo Release & Sharing

We take many group photos and will share photos with the group. And after your tour, we will organize a chance to share photos via Dropbox or Google Photos. Please note that this is our policy and if you prefer to be excluded, we need to know ahead of your tour.

By registering for this tour, you agree to grant to Naturalist Journeys and its authorized representatives’ permission to record on photography film and/or video, pictures of my participation in the tour. You further agree that any or all of the material photographed may be used, in any form, as part of any future publications, brochure, or other printed materials used to promote Naturalist Journeys, and further that such use shall be without payment of fees, royalties, special credit or other compensation.

Travel Insurance

You are traveling in remote areas. Naturalist Journeys strongly recommends you have full medical and evacuation insurance from a company such as  Allianz , for all international travel. If you do not have medical coverage or evacuation coverage on your existing travel insurance policy or for some reason elected not to take that out, we advise getting an evacuation plan with Global Rescue ,  World Nomads , Medjet , Allianz (they can do evacuation only) or a similar company. These plans are typically $300-$400 for a year for multiple destinations. This coverage may be a part of a larger Travel Insurance policy but can also be purchased on its own.

Please contact Naturalist Journeys by email at [email protected] or telephone our office: (520) 558-1146 or toll free: (866) 900-1146 if you have any questions. Many thanks for traveling with us and we hope you enjoy your journey.

There are many titles of interest for Portugal; the following are a few that we have enjoyed that can get you started.

Birds of Europe

Merlin App – Portugal Pack. A phone-based birding app from Cornell University Laboratory of Ornithology. Before departing the U.S.,  download the app for free , then from within the app, download the “pack” for Portugal.

Field Guides

Collins Bird Guide, The Most Complete Guide to the Birds of Britain and Europe

A Birdwatchers’ Guide to Portugal, the Azores & Madeira Archipelagos

Birds of Portugal: An Annotated Checklist

Finding Birds in South Portugal

Portugal Birds: A Pocket Guide to Familiar Species

Birds of Portugal

Mammals of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East

Mammals of Britain and Europe

Collins Butterfly Guide: The Most Complete Field Guide to the Butterflies of Britain and Europe

Butterflies of Britain and Europe: A Photographic Guide

History & Culture

Journey to Portugal: In Pursuit of Portugal’s History and Culture

Conquerors: How Portugal Forged the First Global Empire

The Portuguese: The Land and Its People

Rick Steves Portugal

Rick Steves Map of Spain and Portugal

Tales from the Mountain

The Book of Disquiet

The Lusiads

Portugal – Culture Smart!: The Essential Guide to Customs & Culture

Your guide will also have a selection of reference books and materials for participants to share. As an Amazon Associate, Naturalist Journeys earns from qualifying purchases, and may get commissions for purchases made through links on this page at no added cost to you.

Packing List +

Please pack light.

Soft luggage is much easier for us to pack than a more rigid hard sided piece, so if you have the choice, please use your soft luggage. Be sure to have your name and address on the inside of the bag, as well as on the luggage tag on the handle. It is our hope that you can pack in one checked suitcase that does not exceed 45 pounds. Be sure to pack your personal medication, airline tickets, passport, binoculars, camera, and other essential items in your carry-on bag. You will want a day pack for field trips, so this is an ideal carry-on. Please reconfirm your airline’s baggage weight and size restrictions about a week or so before departure.

In general, the weather during your stay should be warm and pleasant, with highs averaging in the mid- to high-70’s, and lows in the mid- 50’s. Rain and wind are both possible throughout.

Dress is comfortable and informal throughout the trip. Dressing in layers is the best way to be comfortable. Lightweight long-sleeved shirts and long pants make ideal field clothing as they are more protective from sun and vegetation. But if you like to wear them, by all means bring some shorts. Also, choose clothing you don’t mind getting dirty or muddy and things that are comfortable and easy.

An offshore birding trip by rubber zodiac-type boat is often a highlight of this tour. Bring lightweight rain jacket and pants to maximize enjoyment, as well as waterproof coverings for cameras and backpacks.

Clothing & Gear

• Lightweight long pants, 2 pair
• Shorts (optional)
• Lightweight long sleeve shirts (2-3)
• T-shirts or equivalent (3-4 – remember you may be buying some!)
• Personal underclothing and pajamas
• Socks – lightweight and easy to wash and dry
• Comfortable clothes for evening (a cleaner version of your field clothes or a skirt, sundress, etc.)
• Bathing suit (optional)
• Hat with broad brim
• Bandana (gel bandanas work well to keep you cool)
• Comfortable walking shoes (such as tennis shoes)
• Lightweight hiking boots
• Sandals for evenings, travel days (optional)
• Lightweight sweater or jacket; fleece fabric is ideal, but a sweatshirt will do
• Lightweight raincoat and pants (doubles as windbreaker)
• Field vest (optional), a great source is Big Pockets

Equipment & Miscellaneous

• Airline tickets or e-ticket verification
• Passport and a photocopy of your passport ID page to be kept in a separate location
• Small daypack or fanny pack for carrying your field gear
• Umbrella (a great option for occasional rain as you can keep using your binoculars)
• Walking sticks (optional, but recommended if you usually hike with them)
• Small flashlight with fresh batteries
• Alarm clock (or use your phone)
• Sunscreen/lip balm with SPF
• Sunglasses with neck strap
• Insect repellent
• Toiletry articles
• Spotting scope and tripod (optional)
• Camera and extra batteries/battery chargers, film or digital chips, lens cleaning supplies and your instruction manual (optional)
• Tablet or laptop for personal use and/or transferring photos, USB cord and charger (optional)
• Chargers for cameras and/or phones, and three-prong adapters if needed
• Waterproof "dry" bags to keep gear dry in wet weather and on the boat ride, preferably reusable
• Water bottle (or plan to refill one bought on location)
• Notebook or journal and pen (optional)
• Field guides (optional)
• Phrasebook (optional)
• Earplugs (if hotel noise or roommates snoring may bother you; optional)
• Laundry soap for hand washing, a couple of clothespins, travel sewing kit
• Rechargeable power bank (optional)
• Electrical transformer and plug adapters

WE DO NOT RECOMMEND TRAVELING WITH PRECIOUS OR VALUABLE JEWELRY – don’t tempt anyone and don’t bring things you’d regret losing - your mind will be at ease!

Medical & First Aid Items

• Personal prescription medications
• Personal first aid kit and medications for general ailments ( Imodium or Lomotil, antihistamine cream or tablets, eye drops, etc.)
• Motion sickness preventatives if likely to be needed on bus, van drives, etc.
• Band-Aids, moleskin to protect against blisters
• Foot powder, lotions for dry skin, general “comfort” items
• Small bottle of hand sanitizer
• Copy of eyeglass prescription, medical prescriptions, and any medical alerts
• Insurance information
• Vaccination records
• Extra pair of eyeglasses or contacts

Useful Links +

Portugal – Encyclopedic Overview

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portugal

Lisbon – Encyclopedic Overview

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lisbon

Mértola – Encyclopedic Overview

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A9rtola

Tavira – Encyclopedic Overview

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tavira

Nature, Wildlife & Biology

• https://seabirdsportugal.blogspot.com/2018/06/berlengas-gulls.html
• https://avibase.bsc-eoc.org/checklist.jsp?region=pt&list=howardmoore

Birding Lisbon

• https://fatbirder.com/world-birding/europe/portuguese-republic/lisboa-region/

Biodiversity of Portugal

• https://biodiversity.europa.eu/countries/portugal

Flora and Fauna of Portugal

• https://www.britannica.com/place/Portugal/Climate#ref23796

Endemics of Portugal

• https://lntreasures.com/portugal.html

Conservation, Parks & Reserves

Portuguese Society for the Study of Birds (SPEA, BirdLife’s partner in Portugal)

• https://spea.pt/en/about-us/spea/

Flora & Fauna Conservation Efforts – Portugal

• https://www.fauna-flora.org/countries/portugal/

World Wildlife Fund – Portugal

• https://wwf.panda.org/wwf_offices/wwf_portugal/

Ecological Restoration of Native Forests and Species – Volunteer Program in Portugal

• https://www.volunteerworld.com/en/volunteer-program/forest-conservation-in-portugal-lisbon

Institute for Nature Conservation and Forests

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Institute_for_Nature_Conservation_and_Forests

Guadiana Valley Natural Park

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Guadiana_Valley_Natural_Park

Castro Marim Nature Reserve

• https://www.walkalgarve.com/castro-marim-nature-reserve-eastern-algarve

Ria Formosa Natural Park

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ria_Formosa

Sado Estuary Nature Reserve

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sado_Estuary_Natural_Reserve

Arrábida Natural Park

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Arr%C3%A1bida_Natural_Park

Geology & Geography

Geology of Portugal

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Category:Geology_of_Portugal

Geology of the Iberian Peninsula

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geology_of_the_Iberian_Peninsula

Geography of Portugal

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_Portugal

Portugal History and Culture

• https://www.portugal.com/history-and-culture/the-history-of-portugal/
• https://www.everyculture.com/No-Sa/Portugal.html
• https://www.britannica.com/place/Portugal/History

Évora  Historic Centre (UNESCO)

• https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/361/

Portugal Art and Tradition

• https://internationalliving.com/countries/portugal/traditions-and-culture-in-portugal/

Almendres Cromlech

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Almendres_Cromlech

Belém Tower and Monastery of the Hieronymites (Jerónimos Monastery) (UNESCO)

• https://whc.unesco.org/en/list/263
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bel%C3%A9m_Tower
• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jer%C3%B3nimos_Monastery

Helpful Travel Websites

Lisbon Airport (LIS) Humberto Delgado

• https://www.lisbon-airport.com/

National Passport Information Center

• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/passports.html

Homeland Security Real ID Act

• https://www.dhs.gov/real-id

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP)

• https://www.cbp.gov/travel

Transportation Security Administration (TSA)

• https://www.tsa.gov

Foreign Exchange Rates

• https://www.xe.com/

ATM Locator

• https://www.visa.com/atmlocator/
• https://www.mastercard.us/en-us/personal/get-support/find-nearest-atm.html

U.S. Department of State International Travel Information - Portugal

• https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/Portugal.html

Center for Disease Control (CDC) - Portugal

• https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/destinations/traveler/none/portugal

Canada Travel Advice and Advisories - Portugal

• https://travel.gc.ca/destinations/portugal

Travel Health Pro (UK) - Portugal

• https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/country/181/portugal

Electricity and Plugs - Portugal

• https://www.power-plugs-sockets.com/portugal/

Date, Time, and Holidays - Portugal

• https://www.timeanddate.com/worldclock/portugal
• https://www.timeanddate.com/holidays/portugal/

Photo credits: Eurasian Spoonbill, René Pop; Lisbon, Louis Droege, courtesy UnSplash; Great Bustards in Alentejo, jstmmphot via Flicker, public domaine; Algarve, Humphrey Muleba, courtesy UnSplash; Pied Avocets, René Pop; Dartford Warbler, P. Marques; Algarve, Anita Parry, courtesy UnSplash; Thekla Lark, René Pop; Cape St. Vincent, Nick Kane, courtesy UnSplash; Greater Flamingos, P. Marques; White Stork, René Pop; Alentejo, Jacek Ulinski courtesy UnSplash; European Bee-eater, anca-muresan on Unsplash; Hoopoe, Steve Shunk; Alentajo, Jacek Ulinksi on Unsplash; Church, Steve Shunk; Great Bustards in Alentejo, jstmmphot via Flicker, public domain; Northern Lark, Steve Shunk; Black-eared Wheatear, by P. Marques; Algarve, Anita Parry on Unsplash; Greater Flamingo, Steve Shunk; Crested Lark, Steve Shunk; Red-legged Partridge, René Pop; Eurasian Hoopoe, George Bakken; Common Kingfisher, Tom Dove; Great Bustards, Steve Shunk; Greater Flamingo, Steve Shunk; Kentish Plover, Steve Shunk; Little Owl, Steve Shunk; Northern Lark, Steve Shunk; Purple Gallinule, Steve Shunk; Squacco Heron, Steve Shunk; Vineyard, Steve Shunk; White Storks, Steve Shunk; White Stork, Steve Shunk.

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Best Natural wonders in Portugal

Discover the Most Beautiful Nature Wonders in Portugal

The 14 Best Natural Wonders in Portugal

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Discover the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal , the most beautiful landscapes in Portugal and Best Places in Portugal for Nature Lovers .

Want a good reason to go to Portugal? It is one of the European countries with the greatest diversity of natural landscapes.

The Portuguese have always taken care of our greatest wealth on earth, nature. Untouched, dazzling landscapes are all over the country. From the Azores to the north of Portugal, Madeira , the Algarve , here is your selection of the most beautiful natural wonders in Portugal .

Need more inspiration? Discover the Best Secret Destinations in Portugal , Best Things to do in Portugal , Best Beaches in Portugal , Best Places to Visit in Portugal as well as the Best Castles in Portugal .

See more, spend less and book your flights , accommodation today at the best price as well your tours and activities in Portugal.

1. Poçà da Alagoinha

Flores Island - Azores

You will be surprised not to see a dinosaur emerge from this landscape straight out of the film Jurassic Park. Flores island is really one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

Lush nature, waterfalls, ponds, Flores is a true paradise for nature lovers and hikers. This beautiful island, lost in the middle of the Pacific, is quite easy to access since each island in the Azores archipelago has its own airport.

  How to get there:  "Poço de Alagoinha" is located just 20 minutes drive from Flores airport. Book your flights to Ponta Delgada (the main island of the Azores) and Flores and your accommodation at the best price guaranteed, 

  Where to stay:   We offer 61 beautiful accommodations on the island of Flores , book in advance: there are just a few!  We recommend " Moinho da Cascata " situated in Faja Grande.

2. Praia da Falésia

Olhos de Agua - Albufeira - Algarve

Only a few kilometres from the famous Albufeira seaside resort is a place of rare beauty, Praia da Falesia - Olhos de Agua, one of the Best Nature Wonders in Portugal as well as one of the Best Beaches in Portugal .

Close your eyes and think of  Praia da Falésia, a place where couples walk along an endless beach, where dogs (even if they are prohibited) have fun, where  lovers of intense emotions do paragliding from the cliffs.

  How to get there:   Book your  flights to Faro Airport (30 min by car), your transfer , your accommodation at the best price in Albufeira.

  Where to stay:  We recommend staying at the hotel " Epic Sana Algarve Hotel " overlooking Falesia Beach.

3. Islet of Vila Franca do Campo

Sao Miguel - Azores

Facing the island of Sao Miguel, the main island of the Azores Archipelago, the Islet of Vila Franca do Campo, one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal , will be the icing on the cake of your stay in the Azores.

Only 1 kilometre from the coast, this small island is actually the visible part of an incredible underwater volcano. Crystal clear waters and a small beach await you in this unique little corner of paradise. 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Ponta Delgada  and your  accommodation  at the best price on the island of Sao Miguel. Also book your  tours and activities in The Azores  such as a " Whale and dolphin watching tour with Vila Franca Islet visit ".

  Where to stay:  If you want to stay near this Islet, book your room at the best price in  Vila Franca do Campo . 

4. Benagil Caves

Carvoeiro - Algarve

Dugged by the waves, this cave is spectacular inside with the sunlight streaming through the roof , the waters are clear, the sand is fine, the beach is secret: you can get there only by boat or Kayak. Benagil Caves is one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal as well as one of the Best Beaches in Portugal .

Need more inspiration? Discover the  Best Secret Destinations in Portugal ,  Best Things to do in Portugal ,  Best Beaches in Portugal ,  Best Places to Visit in Portugal  as well as the  Best Castles in Portugal .

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Faro  (40 min by car), your  transfer , your  accommodation  at the best price in Carvoeiro, your   tours and activities  in Carvoeiro such as a Benagil caves boat cruise with dolphin watching.

  Where to stay:   We advise you to book " Algarve Moments " a perfect apartment for 2-5 people or for a romantic getaway.

5. Penada Geres National Park

Northern Portugal is a perfect area for nature lovers but rains are a little more frequent than in the south of the country, that’s why the landscapes are so green and that's why they are ranked among the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

"Peneda Geres" national Park is located just a few kilometres from the Spanish border, one hour’s drive from the beautiful city of Porto . You can spend the day hiking or kayaking here today by booking your tours and activities in the North of Portugal  such as a « Geres Kayaking tour from Porto with lunch » or a « Hiking and Sightseeing tour of Peneda Geres National Park ».

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Porto (2h by car) and your accommodation at the best price. 

  Where to stay:  We advise you to stay at " Porto Moments ", a completely renovated historic house dating back to 1893, which offers 3 tastefully decorated apartments located in the historic centre, near the cellars of Porto. 

6. Douro Valley

Ranked among the most beautiful landscapes in Europe , the Douro Valley must be on top of your travel bucket list if you want to discover the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

You intended to stay in Porto for 3 days? The idea is good, but if you add 1 or 2 days to your trip you can discover wonderful places such as the Douro Valley.

Leave your place in the morning by car or train to Pinhao, a charming little town on the edge of the Douro Valley. Once there, board a "Rabelo" a traditional Portuguese boat which used to transport barrels of Port wine. The barrels were transported from their place of production, the Douro Valley, to the cellars, the warehouses where the wines of Porto were stored, on the banks of Gaia, in front of Porto. 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Porto , your accommodation at the best price and your tours and activities such as a "Douro Valley full-day tour, private experience from Porto".

  Where to stay:  " Porto Moments ", located in the heart of the historical district of Porto. 

7. Arrabida Natural Park

The Arrabida Natural Park is a true paradise for nature lovers and it is one of your top 10 Best Natural Wonders in Portugal . This park is located north of Setubal, a charming little town 40 minutes from Lisbon .

Beautiful walks await hiking enthusiasts and, for those who just want to rest and enjoy the sun, beautiful beaches rewarded among the most beautiful beaches in Portugal .

Book your flights to Lisbon and your accommodation at the best price in Lisbon or Setubal . 

  How to get there:  Book your  flights to Lisbon  (40 min by car).  

  Where to stay:  We advise you to stay at the " Ha Mar Ao Luar ", nestled on the heights of Setubal, at the entrance of the nature reserve of Arrabida park.  

8. Ponta da Piedade

Lagos - Algarve

Located in Lagos, one of the favourite destinations of English travellers in the Algarve , Ponta da Piedade is one of the most beautiful natural wonders in Portugal . You will reach this somewhat secret place by going to the lighthouse of Ponta da Piedade (park your car near the lighthouse).

Stairs carved into the rock will take you to the foot of these magnificent cliffs. You can also discover Ponta da Piedade by sea: take a kayak or boat trip . 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Faro  (1h by car), your accommodation at the best price  in Lagos and your tours and activities in Lagos such as a " 2-hour kayak cave explorer tour ".  

  Where to stay:  Book your room at the best price at the " Iberostar Selection Lagos Algarve " located by the beach. 

9. Sete Cidades

Sao-Miguel - Azores

Located on the heights of Sao Miguel Island, the largest island in the Azores Archipelago, Sete Cidades has been ranked by travellers from around the world as the most beautiful landscape in Europe . It is one of your top 10 Natural Wonders in Portugal .

This volcano rises to almost 900 metres above sea level, at its centre, several lakes of incredible colours. You will see two lakes of a different colour, Lake Verde and Lake Azul, named after their colour, green and blue.

The legend says that the lakes might have been filled with the tears of a young loving couple, a young shepherd and a princess. The young shepherd crying tears of an emerald green colour and the young princesscrying blue tears.

  How to get there:  Come and discover "Sete Cidades" by booking your flights to Ponta Delgada , your accommodation and your  tours and activities in The Azores such as as a " Sete Cidades, Green Lake and Blue Lake Tour ".

  Where to stay:  " Terra Nostra Garden Hotel " surrounded by trees. 

10. Plantation of orange trees in the Algarve

Some ignorant people about the Algarve may say that the region is mostly a concrete region. In fact the Algarve is one of the least populated regions in Europe: nature is everywhere. Most of the Algarve cities are on a human scale and are separated by kilometres of nature reserves, plantations and agricultural areas except.

To get a glimpse of the beauty of this region we advise you treat yourself to a balloon flight you will fly over the green valleys of the Algarve , the landscape is breathtaking!

Discover the Algarve from the sky by booking your stay in the Algarve and your tours and activities in the Algarve such as a balloon flight.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Faro and your transfer . 

11. Pico Island 

This volcano does not represent a part of the Pico island: it is the whole island! Pico is one of the central islands of the Azores with Sao Jorge and Faial . The Pico island can be seen from these islands; it dominates the horizon with its magnificent volcano that looks a bit like Mount Fuji. It is for sure one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

You can go to Pico island from Sao Jorge or Faial, by boat. The island of Pico is incredible; locals fought hard to tame the elements. they  even managed to grow vines!

Do not hesitate to take a hike on the heights of the volcano, you will feel like you are in Scotland or Ireland. 

  How to get there:  Book your flights to Faial  (facing Pico Island) your accommodation at the best price in Pico or Faial and your tours and activities in the Azores such as " Pico Island: Pico mountain overnight climb ".

  Where to stay:  " Casa do Cedro do Mato " offering views of the sea.  

12. Capelinhos

Faial Island - Azores

We had a real crush on Capelinhos, one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

Faial is one of the central islands of the Azores with Pico Island and Sao Jorge Island. The island of Faial is an ideal starting point to discover these islands that seem to be lost in the middle of the Pacific Ocean.

Capelinhos is the name of this volcano whose cliffs plunge into the ocean. In the fifties this volcano, located at the western end of the island of Faial, erupted in a rather spectacular way and enlarged the island of Faial by 2.5 kilometres.

Discover the history of this volcano by visiting the "Capelinhos Volcano Interpretation Centre": a magnificent museum that explains how volcanoes operate in a fun way.

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Faial and your accommodation at the best price.

  Where to stay:  Book your room at " Quinta das Buganvilias ".

13. Pico do Arieiro

On  top of Madeira Island, 30 minutes drive from the centre of Funchal, Pico do Arieiro offers one of the best hikes in Europe  and one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

From "Pico do Arieiro" to "Pico Ruivo" you will discover the unspoiled nature of one of the most beautiful islands in Europe. Along this path are small villages, lost in the middle of the mountains: people live there (some of them have never left their mountains). The sky is blue, the air is pure: it is never too hot or too cold.  

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Funchal , your accommodation at the best price on this island and your tours and activities such as a " Pico mountain day climb ".

  Where to stay:  If you are looking for authentic accommodation and in the middle of nature we advise you to book at the hotel " Quinta fo Furao " in Santana. The director is passionate about this island and a nature enthusiast. 

14. Volcano Crater

Crovo Island - Azores

Nature is amazing but man can be amazing too! The people of this tiny island, lost in the middle of the Pacific worked hard and with determination to cultivate the lands of Corvo Island, one of the Best Natural Wonders in Portugal .

Only 450 people live on Corvo Island now, the smallest island in the Azores .  Surprisingly, the island is relatively easy to reach thanks to its airport in direct connection with the other main airports of the Azores such as Ponta Delgada, Flores or Faial.

During your stay in Portugal, discover the  Best Secret Destinations in Portugal ,  Best Things to do in Portugal ,  Best Beaches in Portugal ,  Best Places to Visit in Portugal  as well as the  Best Castles in Portugal .

  How to get there:   Book your flights to Corvo Island and go on an adventure off the beaten path!

  Where to stay:  If you want to stay on the spot, book your accommodation in the only small town of the island, the city of Vila do Corvo .  

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