Location: Algarve, Portugal
Recommended by Marga of Discover Portugal
How do I know it’s ethical?
Ria Formosa has been a national park since 1987. The 18 000 hectares area is protected and known for its many birds. It’s part of the Natura 2000 Network and classified as an important bird area (IBA). Ria Formosa was even elected as one of the 7 Natural Wonders of Portugal!
Description of the Experience
In southern Portugal, you’ll discover a paradise for bird watchers. Ria Formosa Natural Park is located between islands such as Ilha da Barreta, Ilha de Tavira, Ilha do Farol, and mainland Portugal. The wetlands have many hiking paths, but you can also make a bird-watching excursion by boat.
The different barrier islands have different habitats, with marshes, dunes, sultans, and lagoons. A paradise for birds! The mild climate also creates a perfect environment for them to stay in during winter. Tens of thousands of birds make it their temporary home, and in winter, you’ll be able to see the most incredible species. You might spot flamingos, spoonbills, stilts, ospreys and many more! More than 200 bird species have been recorded in this part of Portugal! The bird-watching season starts in September, but you can see beautiful birds all year round.
Ria Formosa is easy to reach from Faro Island, but it’s best to go on an adventure with a guide. Guides know everything about the area and the native bird and plant life. They can help you identify birds and plants and tell you more about their behaviour. And you’ll not only spot several unique species but also enjoy the beautiful views over Ria Formosa. The area has many clam farms and oyster beds, and the views over the sandbanks and islands are stunning. Don’t have your own binoculars? The guide will happily lend you one!
Every season is different at Ria Formosa, and as the ecosystem is protected, you’ll stay at a safe distance from the birds. In spring, there will be dozens of bird nests and newborn birds. Are you an experienced bird watcher, or do you prefer venturing out by yourself? Then you can explore Ria Formosa completely free of charge. Good places to visit are Quinta do Lago, which is located along the Ludo Trail. Faro Beach is another excellent spot to visit during low tide. You might spot the oystercatcher, the dunlin, the curlew, and many other types of waders.
Company/ Cost:
Multiple providers in the Algarve offer bird-watching tours to Ria Formosa. The eco-friendly tours by solar boat cost in the region of € 35,00 per adult and € 25,00 for children. Most boat trips take around 2,5 hours and leave from places like Tavira, Faro, and Olhão.
Some boat tours also stop at islands for a break, and these tours are usually a little longer. It’s the perfect way to discover islands such as Ilha do Farol and Ilha Deserta. You can enjoy some lunch and a fresh dip in the ocean! Cycling, walking, Segway, and kayak tours are also possible at Ria Formosa.
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This is one post on a series of ethical animal tourism posts by travel content creators. The experiences cover all seven continents and a variety of animals. Ensure that your animal experience is an ethical one.
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