Ria Formosa Birdwatching Tours by Rocha Life

Experience an unforgettable half-day journey at Ria Formosa, located in the serene surroundings of Mexilhoeira Grande, Portugal. This exceptional tour is accessible to all ages, making it a perfect family outing or a tranquil solo adventure. The journey is available every Sunday, offering a choice between a refreshing morning session or a relaxing afternoon escapade, each spanning four hours and covering a comfortable distance of 2 kilometres. The terrain is easy, ensuring a pleasant experience for everyone.

Pricing Details:

• Morning tour (Ria Formosa West): €77.00 per person
• Afternoon tour (Ria Formosa East): €82.00 per person

Duration: 4 hours of immersive exploration

Morning Session Highlights
The morning option starts with exploring the saltpans and lagoons near Faro airport, a habitat bustling with birdlife. You'll witness the grace of Flamingos and Shelducks, while the reedbeds echo with the melodies of Cetti’s Warbler. Winter visitors are treated to a variety of ducks, including Mallards, Gadwalls, Teals, Shovelers, Wigeons, Pochards, Tufted Ducks, and the vibrant Red-crested Pochards. A scenic walk along a golf course reveals more avian wonders like Hoopoes, Azure-winged Magpies, and Waxbills. The journey culminates at a bird hide overlooking a lagoon, a breeding ground for Purple Swamphen, Black-headed Weavers, and Little Bitterns.

Afternoon Session Highlights
The afternoon journey takes you near Tavira, where the saltpans of the Ria Formosa Natural Park await. This area is a haven for waders and a frequent feeding ground for Flamingos, Avocets, and Black-winged Stilts. The dykes between the lagoons are a hotspot for Kentish and Ringed Plovers, Dunlins, Sanderlings, Little Stints, and Little Terns. Keep an eye out for Audouin’s Gulls, often seen alongside Yellow-legged and Lesser Black-backed Gulls.

Meeting Point and Departure
All tours commence from the A ROCHA centre. The departure time varies throughout the year to align with the sunrise, ensuring the best birdwatching experience. Transportation to the tour location is provided in one of our comfortable vehicles.

Inclusions
The tour price includes an expert guide, a handy checklist, access to field guides, a refreshing drink midway or at the end of the tour, and all transportation costs.

This journey through Ria Formosa offers a blend of serene landscapes, rich birdlife, and an opportunity to connect with nature in one of Portugal's most beautiful natural settings. Whether you choose the morning or afternoon option, you're guaranteed an enriching experience that will linger in your memories for years to come.