birding trips lisbon

Birds & Nature Tours Portugal

Birds & Nature Tours Portugal is the longest established Portuguese company specifically dedicated to birds and birding tours. We offer you a wide variety of programmes, including guided birding and bird photography tours.

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Birds & Nature Tours Portugal is the longest established Portuguese company specifically dedicated to birds and birding tours. We offer you a wide variety of programmes, including guided birding and bird photography tours. Birds & Nature offers pre-scheduled group tours in Portugal and Spain (small groups up to seven participants) and to other countries, for which you can make a reservation directly. We also organise private-guide services in Portugal and Spain for individuals, groups, clubs and associations, ranging from day tours (from Lisbon and from the Algarve) to birding holidays (short-break, week-long or more, and tailor-made itineraries) at any time of the year.

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Birdwatching Lisbon

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BIRDWATCHING LISBON - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Portugal: Fabulous Birding & Culture

October 10 - 22, 2024

• Full Itinerary
• Photo Gallery

Travel Details

• Trip Reports
• Know Before You Go
• Other Trips You May Like

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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Birdwatching Day Tours from Lisbon Overview

Lisbon is an excellent point of departure for visiting some of the best birding sites in Portugal. In fact, Lisbon is the only European capital located so close to such a rich Birds & Nature hotspot as the Tagus Estuary. This estuary, the most important protected wetland in Portugal and one of the most important in Europe, is a mere 20 minutes from Lisbon, yet it encompasses an amazing range of different habitats (open water, mudflats, salt marshes, salt pans, rice fields, reed beds, pasture and wooded hills), in a compact area that is a showcase for Portugal’s birdlife. Due to its proximity to Lisbon, we offer both full day and half day tours to the Tagus Estuary.

Just a little farther away, a 30-minute drive from Lisbon, is another superb birding venue – the Sado Estuary. It offers better opportunities than its larger counterpart, the Tagus Estuary, to see a number of desirable species. For this destination too, we offer both full day and half day tours.

A third destination from Lisbon is a tour to the Alentejo, namely to the Castro Verde plains and the Guadiana Valley. The range of different habitats here and their specific bird communities are in complete contrast to the two wetlands described above. The sites visited are a 90-minute drive from Lisbon and require a full day tour.

We can also guide you to other interesting sites within reach of Lisbon, including the Peniche/Cabo Carvoeiro/Lagoa de Óbidos area (sea-watching and wetland species), Serra da Arrábida and Cabo Espichel (woodland species and migrants), Lagoa de Santo André (an interesting coastal lagoon especially good for aquatic and woodland species), Portas de Ródão (especially for rock loving birds), and other destinations are also possible depending on personal preferences. All these sites require a full day tour.

For additional information about the above tours, please refer to:

To the Tagus Estuary

To the Sado Estuary

To the Alentejo (Castro Verde and the Guadiana Valley)

To Other Sites Read more

Birds photography tours WITHOUT HIDES/BLINDS

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The company offers a wide variety of programmes, including guided birding tours and bird photography tours in Portugal and abroad....

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Birdwatching Day Tours From Lisbon to the Tagus Estuary

From lisbon to the alentejo.

Tagus Estuary Tours

Lisbon is the only European capital located near such a rich Bird & Nature hotspot – the Tagus estuary...

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• Aegithinidae – Ioras
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• Callaeidae – Kokako & Saddlebacks
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• Eupetidae – Rail-Babbler
• Eurylaimidae – Broadbills
• Formicariidae – Antthrushes
• Fringillidae – Finches, Seedeaters, Euphonias & Allies
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• Grallariidae – Antpittas
• Hirundinidae – Swallows & Martins
• Hyliotidae – Hyliotas
• Hylocitreidae – Yellow-flanked Whistler
• Hypocoliidae – Hypocolius
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• Laniidae – Shrikes
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• Paradisaeidae – Birds-of-paradise
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• Pardalotidae – Pardalotes
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• Parulidae – New World Warblers
• Passeridae – Old World Sparrows
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• Petroicidae – Australasian Robins
• Peucedramidae – Olive Warbler
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• Pityriaseidae – Bristlehead
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• Pomatostomidae – Australasian Babblers
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• Promeropidae – Sugarbirds
• Prunellidae – Accentors
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• Ptilogonatidae – Silky-flycatchers
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• Pycnonotidae – Bulbuls
• Regulidae – Goldcrests & Kinglets
• Remizidae – Penduline Tits
• Rhagologidae – Mottled Berryhunter
• Rhinocryptidae – Tapaculos
• Rhipiduridae – Fantails
• Sapayoidae -Sapayoa
• Scotocercidae – Streaked Scrub Warbler
• Sittidae – Nuthatches
• Stenostiridae – Fairy Flycatchers
• Sturnidae – Starlings, Mynas & Rhabdornis
• Sylviidae – Sylviid Babblers, Parrotbills & Fulvettas
• Tephrodornithidae – Woodshrikes & Allies
• Thamnophilidae – Antbirds
• Thraupidae – Tanagers & Allies
• Tichodromidae – Wallcreeper
• Timaliidae – Babblers
• Tityridae – Tityras, Becards & Allies
• Troglodytidae – Wrens
• Turdidae – Thrushes
• Tyrannidae – Tyrant Flycatchers
• Urocynchramidae – Przevalski’s Finch
• Vangidae – Vangas
• Viduidae – Indigobirds & Whydahs
• Vireonidae – Vireos, Greenlets & Shrike-babblers
• Zosteropidae – White-eyes, Yuhinas & Allies
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• Alcedinidae – Kingfishers
• Alcidae – Auks
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• Balaenicipitidae – Shoebill
• Brachypteraciidae – Ground Rollers
• Bucconidae – Puffbirds
• Bucerotidae – Hornbills
• Bucorvidae – Ground Hornbills
• Burhinidae – Thick-knees & Stone Curlews
• Cacatuidae – Cockatoos
• Capitonidae – New World Barbets
• Caprimulgidae – Nightjars & Nighthawks
• Cariamidae – Seriemas
• Casuariidae – Cassowaries
• Cathartidae – New World Vultures
• Charadriidae – Plovers, Lapwings & Dotterels
• Chionidae – Sheathbill
• Ciconiidae – Storks
• Coliidae – Mousebirds
• Columbidae – Doves & Pigeons
• Coraciidae – Rollers
• Cracidae – Chachalacas, Curassows & Guans
• Cuculidae – Old World Cuckoos
• Diomedeidae – Albatrosses
• Dromadidae – Crab Plover
• Dromaiidae – Emu
• Eurypygidae – Sunbittern
• Falconidae – Falcons, Kestrels & Caracaras
• Fregatidae – Frigatebirds
• Galbulidae – Jacamars
• Gaviidae – Divers or Loons
• Glareolidae – Coursers & Pratincoles
• Gruidae – Cranes
• Haematopodidae – Oystercatchers
• Heliornithidae – Finfoots & Sungrebe
• Hemiprocnidae – Treeswifts
• Hydrobatidae – Northern Storm Petrels
• Ibidorhynchidae – Ibisbill
• Indicatoridae – Honeyguides
• Jacanidae – Jacanas
• Laridae – Gulls, Terns & Skimmers
• Leptosomatidae – Cuckoo Roller
• Lybiidae – African Barbets
• Megalimidae – Asian Barbets
• Megapodiidae – Megapodes
• Meropidae – Bee-eaters
• Mesitornithidae – Mesites
• Momotidae – Motmots
• Musophagidae – Turacos, Plantain-eaters & Go-away-birds
• Numididae – Guineafowl
• Nyctibiidae – Potoos
• Oceanitidae – Austral Storm Petrels
• Odontophoridae – New World Quails
• Opisthocomidae – Hoatzin
• Otididae – Bustards, Floricans & Korhaans
• Pandionidae – Ospreys
• Pedionomidae – Plains Wanderer
• Pelecanidae – Pelicans
• Pelecanoididae – Diving Petrels
• Phaethontidae – Tropicbirds
• Phalacrocoracidae – Cormorants & Shags
• Phasianidae – Pheasants, Grouse, Partridges & Allies
• Phoenicopteridae – Flamingos
• Phoeniculidae – Wood Hoopoes & Scimitarbills
• Picidae – Woodpeckers
• Pluvianellidae – Magellanic Plover
• Pluvianidae – Egyptian Plover
• Podargidae – Frogmouths
• Podicipedidae – Grebes
• Procellariidae – Petrels, Diving Petrels & Shearwaters
• Psittacidae – African & New World Parrots
• Psittaculidae – Old World Parrots
• Psophiidae – Trumpeters
• Pteroclidae – Sandgrouse
• Rallidae – Rails, Crakes, Gallinules & Coots etc.
• Ramphastidae – Aracari, Toucans & Toucanets
• Recurvirostridae – Avocets & Stilts
• Rheidae – Rheas
• Rhynochetidae – Kagu
• Rostratulidae – Painted Snipe
• Sagittariidae – Secretarybird
• Sarothruridae – Flufftails
• Scolopacidae – Woodcock, Snipe, Sandpipers & Allies
• Scopidae – Hammerkop
• Semnornithidae – Toucan Barbets
• Spheniscidae – Penguins
• Steatornithidae – Oilbird
• Stercorariidae – Skuas or Jaegers
• Strigidae – Owls
• Strigopidae – New Zealand Parrots
• Struthionidae – Ostriches
• Sulidae – Gannets & Boobies
• Thinocoridae – Seedsnipe
• Threskiornithidae – Ibises & Spoonbills
• Tinamidae – Tinamous
• Todidae – Todies
• Trochilidae – Hummingbirds
• Trogonidae – Trogons & Quetzals
• Turnicidae – Buttonquails
• Tytonidae – Barn & Grass Owls
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Lisboa Region

Birding Lisboa

RegionLisboa Region is one of the seven designated regions of Portugal. The region covers an area of 3001.95 km2 (the smallest region on mainland Portugal) and includes a population of 2,815,851 inhabitants according to the 2011 census. Representing the Lisboa Metropolitan Region it is highly urbanised. Nevertheless, there is good birding to be had within the city and wel within reach for day trips.

This page is sponsored by EVOA - Tagus Estuary Birdwatching and Conservation Area

IBA Salinas do Samouco

Nr boquilobo marsh.

Abbreviations Key

NR Tagus Estuary

Birdwatching lisbon, 2008 [march] - mark easterbrook, 2009 [february] - honeyguide, 2012 [november] - colin & alison parnell, photographer - modesto viegas.

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EVOA - Tagus Estuary Birdwatching Area

One of the 10 most important wetlands in Europe, specially due to the great amount of aquatic migratory birds.

Description

Located in the heart the most important wetland of Portugal, the Tagus Estuary Natural Reserve, EVOA – Tagus Estuary Birdwatching and Conservation Area, allows the visitors to know and enjoy the unique heritage that we have between the Lezíra and the Tagus Estuary. Three freshwater wetlands are integrated in EVOA, in a total of 70 hectare. These lagoons are very important for the birdlife, being used as refuge areas or as nesting areas. To guarantee the tranquility of the birds and to maximize your experience and comfort during the visit there are six observatories in the lagoons, several inconspicuous viewpoints and a Visitor Centre.

Closed on Monday.

If you bring your own vehicle: From A1 (Lisbon/Porto), you need to take the exit to Vila Franca and pass the bridge over the Tagus river in direction to Porto Alto. As soon as you pass the bridge you should turn right – direction Cabo after you enter de Lezíria of Vila Franca de Xira by the Cardal gate you should follow the signs to EVOA, for 12,5km.

From Porto Alto, you are supposed to go in the direction of Vila Franca de Xira thru the road N10 (Reta do Cabo), just before the bridge Marechal Carmona (over the Tagus river) you have to turn right – direction Cabo/EVOA. And then you just need to follow the EVOA signs and pass the Cardal gate. It’s 12,5km until the Interpretation Center.

On the road to EVOA take time to enjoy the landscape and the birds you might find on the way.

In case you don’t have your own transportation: Contact us to explore the best options to get here: 926 458 963 or [email protected].

Bus: Nº002 Boa viagem – Lisboa (Campo Grande) → Alenquer. The bus stops at Vila Franca de Xira Train Station. Then you will need to take a Taxi to EVOA.

By train: Red Line (Linha Vermelha) + Line of Azambuja. The train stops in Vila Franca de Xira. Then you need to take a Taxi to EVOA.

Terrain and Habitat

Circular trail, is a telescope useful, good birding season, best time to visit, difficulty walking trail, accessible by, birdwatching hide / platform, view other birding spots in the area that are published on birdingplaces, top 5 birds, other birds you can see here, comments & tips.

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Birding Lisbon,

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  Pictures by Fa a and Ray Tipper

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Bird Watching in Castro Verde - Birds & Nature Tours

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Great day out birding in the Tagus Estuary with Amélia! It's a lovely area and she was very... read more

Echoing all the raves for Birds & Nature -- highly recommend their tours! Very experienced guides... read more

Bird Watching in Castro Verde

We ordered a bird watching guide from Joao Jara, to show us the birds in Castro Verde and Mertola region. Our aim was to see the Great Bustards and Black Bellied Pigeons. Our guide was wonderfull personality and very experienced guide who know all the birds and good bird places. He manage to show us over 120 different species, all over what we was ecepted!

My husband and I contacted Bernardo, having read good reviews about this company prior to our trip to Lisbon. It was very easy to arrange a half day bird watching and we were collected promptly from outside the museum near where we were staying. Bernardo is so friendly and helpful and he drove us quickly to the first of four sites that we visited. Using the binoculars he provided, we were able to see and identify a huge range of birds including Bonelli's eagle, spoonbills, hoopoe, shrike, marsh harrier etc etc. In total, we saw 81 species and enjoyed every minute of the trip. We were taken back to the drop off point via the town of Alcochete where the company has an arrangement with a local hotel for those wanting to stay in the area. We considered this trip to be excellent value for money and well worth doing if you have any interest at all in birds and wildlife.

I spent a day in January in the Tagus estuary with Bernardo. He is a quiet, unassuming person and I thoroughly enjoyed his company for the full day outing. It was almost uncanny that he knew where to go to see the birds that I had specified and of course there was a great deal more to be observed. He loves the birds and his country, and also takes great pleasure in sharing it all so that a day spent with him is not only fascinating and informative but flies by so quickly. My immediate response when I returned to England was to work out when I could return to repeat the experience. Bernardo followed up by sending a list of the birds we had seen along with a map of the area and other useful information. My praise for what he and his company offers could not be higher and I have no hesitation in recommending them in the warmest possible terms.

We had a short layover in Lisbon on our way home from Madeira and had contacted Bird and Nature Tours to see if a day tip to the Tagus Estuary was possible. We were set up with Bernardo for a scheduled day trip. En route to Lisbon, I became quite sick and was not sure if I could even do the trek. Bernardo and Joao were very generous and understanding. We came to a solution where we would bird the morning and then have lunch and then see if I was well enough to continue the day. The flexibility, understanding and empathy from Bird and Nature Tours was very much appreciated. It turned out to be a glorious, warm winter day, I felt fine at lunch and we did finish the entire day trip. The Tagus Estuary was awesome, we saw 80 birds (that included a beautiful Bonelli's Eagle!), 2 Egyptian Mongoose, and a Fox! Bernardo followed up our visit by sending us a checklist of the birds seen and a map of the area. Both were very much appreciated! Birds and Nature Tours is a top class act that is professional and has great customer service. I highly recommend them for short or long birding trips.

A wonderful return one day visit. The attention to detail and care that is taken makes this an unforgettable experience. Much appreciated the follow up list of birds seen and the map of the estuary. Managed to pack everything into a tight timetable before returning to the ship, even Bonelli's eagle and a Bluethroat. 70 species.

As a first time visitor to Lisbon I naturally wanted to see the historic sites but was also keen to see nature as I had been told it was a fantastic place for birding. I like watching birds but am not the sort to have lists and target species so I am a bit wary of specialist tour operators but the two days I spent with Birds and Nature were just perfect! There are so many different habitats within a short drive from Lisbon so the variety of bird life is amazing and Jaoa and Bernardo seemed to know where to find them all! One minute I was enthralled by a huge flock of flamingoes the next by a little owl peering from the roof! Raptors were everywhere and frequently you peered down the telescope to see several species in view! As I said, I had no list but from memory could recall around 70 species including my favorites, the owls- not only 2 little owls but 5 short eared - and this in December which is not the peak season! Whether you are a fanatical birder or just a lover of nature these tours are for you, just let them know what you want out of the trip and they will supply it! I can't speak highly enough of the team, they are just brilliant!