A unique birdwatching experience in the heart of Ria Formosa
Covering over 18,000 hectares and stretching along 60 kilometers of Algarve coastline, the Ria Formosa Natural Park is one of southern Portugal’s true ecological treasures. Recognized as a UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and a Ramsar Wetland of International Importance, it is considered one of Europe’s most vital bird habitats.
This vast protected area is made up of lagoons, salt marshes, tidal flats, sand dunes, and pristine beaches, creating an incredibly rich mosaic of ecosystems. It’s a haven for birdlife, where over 200 different species have been recorded — and more than 20,000 waterbirds seek refuge here every winter.
Some of the most fascinating species commonly spotted in the Ria Formosa include:
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the black-necked grebe (Podiceps nigricollis)
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the Eurasian spoonbill (Platalea leucorodia)
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the Eurasian oystercatcher (Haematopus ostralegus)
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the iconic greater flamingo (Phoenicopterus roseus)
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the Mediterranean gull (Larus melanocephalus)
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the great cormorant (Phalacrocorax carbo)
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the elegant little egret (Egretta garzetta)
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the grey heron (Ardea cinerea)
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and the majestic white stork (Ciconia ciconia), among many others.
Ria Formosa is a vital stopover for migratory birds, acting as a resting, nesting, and wintering site on their journeys between Europe and Africa.
Discover nature with a local guide — and a truly authentic lunch
Join a small group experience led by a passionate local birding guide who will take you through the hidden corners of the park while sharing stories, traditions, and the cultural richness of life in the lagoon.
This is more than just birdwatching — it's an immersion in the rhythm of the Ria Formosa, where you’ll walk through peaceful natural settings, spot rare birds, and learn to identify them by song, behavior, and habitat.
To complete the experience: a homemade lunch at the guide’s mother’s house, on Culatra Island. In the cozy kitchen of a traditional fisherman's home, you’ll be treated to fresh, local dishes prepared with heart — a unique and intimate moment that perfectly reflects the spirit of the Algarve.