Activities

Boat tour to Ria Formosa Natural Park from Olhão

from

£17.00

Free cancellation

Language: English, French, Spanish, Portuguese

Mobile voucher accepted

Duration: 4 hours

Instant confirmation

Skip the line

Fast track

Guided tour

Local touch

E-Voucher

Do this because

Discover the wetlands of Ria Formosa Natural Park
Stop for lunch in the fishermen's village of Culatra
Admire the nature in Armona Bay

What to expect

Discover the nature in the barrier islands of Ria Formosa Natural Park, this tour will take you visiting local villages and beaches, admiring stunning views of Olhão.

Departing from Olhão, you will navigate the waterways between the barrier islands of Ria Formosa; passing by the Farol Island, admiring the Santa Maria Lighthouse. You will then have a 1h30 stop for lunch in the fishing village of Culatra; here you can savor the local fresh fish at a typical restaurant (not included in the tour fee) or take some time to have lunch on your own, perhaps going for a nice picnic on the beach.
After the lunch break, you will continue to Armona Bay and island, where you will stop for another 30 minutes to appreciate the nature.

You will then return to Olhão, passing close to several tuna factories and the fishing harbor. During the whole tour your guide will explain you about the nature, flora and fauna of this incredible wetlands.

What's included

Guided tour
River cruise

What's not included

Food and drinks

Where

Porto Recreio de Olhão, Avenida 5 de Outubro, Olhão, Portugal

Meeting point:

Meet your guide and group in from of the Hotel Real Marina, in the Porto Recreio de Olhão, stand number 5. Please be at the meeting point 10 minutes before departure.

What to remember

Please note, lunch is not included in the tour fee, if you want you can bring a lunch box with you
It's suggest to wear comfortable clothing

Provider

Passeios Ria Formosa

Booking fee

Good news! No extra fees are applied to this booking.

Cancellation policy

Receive a 100% refund if you cancel up to 24 hours before the experience begins.

What people say about this experience

Anonymous
From United States of America - May 2024

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

Amazing experience
Anonymous
From United States of America - March 2024

Great
Overall rated
4/5
Colette
From United States of America - October 2023

Travelled with family

25 - 34 years old

Excellent
Overall rated
5/5

Very enjoyable afternoon

Excursions & day trips

West Algarve Tour with Lagos, Sagres and Cabo de São Vicent

The rugged coast of the western Algarve is crammed with dramatic cliffs sheltering sandy coves and characterful towns. On this trip you'll have ample time to explore the historic city of Lagos and see some of the Algarve's most picturesque points, including Sagres, the ‘end of the world' and Baleeira fishing village. Beatriz, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Lagos has a long history, and was once an important hub for maritime traffic in the 15th century during the Portuguese Age of Discovery. You'll get a sense of its history as you mander through the old town on patterned cobbled streets flanked by handsome buildings.' Sheltering by a river mouth, the town of Lagos has a great location by the beach and within reach of all that amazing scenery. Get your culture fix with a tour of Lagos town, plus free time to enjoy the vibrant streets and cafés. Your guided tour takes in Praça do Infante to see Henry the Navigator's statue as well as the building that served as Portugal's first slave market. Afterwards, you could choose to spend your time having lunch, shopping or exploring.Next, you'll head to Sagres to admire its 15th century fortress, where you can explore the grounds and admire its impressive architecture while learning about the region's maritime history. After this we'll visit Cabo de São Vicente, also known as the ‘end of the world' – Europe's most south-westerly point. You'll round off the day taking in even more panoramic views over the fishing harbour of Baleeira.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Lisbon Tour from the Algarve

Few capitals are as diverse as Lisbon. From the tightly packed alleys of the old town to the elegant boulevards of Baixa Pombalina, it's a city bursting with charm and life – and classic yellow trams. Gonçalo, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘Much of Lisbon was destroyed in the 1755 earthquake, and was then rebuilt under the Marquis of Pombal's guidance into the first city with innovative earthquake-resistant designs – hence today's name for the district: Baixa Pombalina.'Things kick off reasonably early, allowing you to reach Lisbon in good time. Get ready for spectacular views over the city as you cross the Golden Gate-like 25th April Bridge over the River Tagus to the seafront district of Belém. You'll get to see Belém Tower, the Monument of Discoveries and much more. Gonçalo says, 'Belém Tower was built in the early 16th century and is an iconic symbol of Portugal's Age of Discoveries. It once stood on a small island near the riverbank, but as the river's course changed, it now sits near the shore. Over the years, it's served as a defense point, a lighthouse, a customs house, and even a prison.'Next, sightsee by bus passing by the Basilica Estrela among other sights. Your guide will then point out the best areas of the city to check out during your free time – whether you prefer to shop, dine or simply stroll streets lined with impressive buildings from Portugal's imperial days. You'll return to the Algarve via the Vasco da Gama Bridge – the longest in Europe.

free cancellation

Guided Tour

Excursions & day trips

Silves and Monchique Mountains Tour

The Algarve is famed for its beautiful beaches, yet the area's countryside is also filled with historic and natural gems that are well worth discovering. You'll head into the mountains to visit Silves, Foia and Monchique, and taste some local treats along the way.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Faro, Olhão & Tavira Tour with Fado Show

The east is one of the jewels in the Algarve's crown, and this full day excursion offers a flavour of its local culture as well as a chance to get to know its biggest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, and Tavira and travel through beautiful countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park. Sofia, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘This excursion is special because it brings the local culture to life. You'll see a performance of Fado music which is the heart of Portuguese tradition, a soulful singer fronts a group of musicians and together they convey passion, struggle, and longing. It's a hugely significant part of Portuguese culture.'We'll begin in Faro, the regional capital, where you'll have free time to explore the old town – the cathedral is a must-see. Next up is Olhao, a village on the banks of the Ria Formosa. You'll visit its famous fish market and then enjoy free time for lunch and shopping. Sofia adds, ‘As well as showcasing the fruits of the sea, the market is a good place to make contact with smallholders selling their own produce, such as honey, jams, cakes, and liqueurs.'In the afternoon, we'll head to Tavira to see its top sights and visit the castle for a stroll along its ramparts. Along with the castle, the seven-arched Roman bridge and a pair of historic churches are just a handful of the best things to do in Tavira. Cap off the day by dropping into a church for a live show of fado singing – the melancholic music genre that is a national treasure.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Evening 4x4 Tour of Monchique Hills with Dinner

This trip has to be one of the best ways to discover the real Algarve. Jump into a 4x4, leave the coast behind and make your way up into the Monchique hills. You'll discover the real heart of the region, one that most visitors never get to see. Ines, one of our expert local guides, says, ‘These hills feel almost untouched by time, with little farming villages where life moves at a slower pace, offering a glimpse of traditional Portuguese life.'Travelling in small groups winding along earth tracks and past tiny villages, you'll get a sneak peek of a peaceful lifestyle that's quickly disappearing. One of the highlights is the whitewashed village of Alferce, home to a pretty church dating back to the 16th century. Any cultivatable patches of land in the area are filled with citrus orchards and eucalyptus groves. Next, you'll continue on your journey to explore the natural wilderness of Barrancos dos Pisoes.There'll be plenty of stops along the way to capture those perfect holiday pictures and then we'll travel up to the highest point in the Algarve. At this special viewpoint, you'll watch the sky change colour as the sun sets and toast the view with a glass of sparkling wine. Hop back into the 4x4 and as darkness blankets the landscape, you'll head to a local restaurant for a traditional dinner including specialities from the Monchique hills.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, en, fr, pt

Excursions & day trips

Guided tour of Faro and East Algarve in a Small Group

Eastern Algarve is one of Portugal's most beautiful regions – and this excursion in an eight-seat minibus is ideal for discovering its pretty villages and biggest city. You'll visit Faro, Olhao, Cacela Velha and Tavira and as well as travel through beautiful countryside in the Ria Formosa National Park.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, en, fr, nl

Activities

Seville City Visit with Shopping Time

As the heart and soul of Andalusia, Seville makes for a mesmerising daytrip. You'll explore the city's cobbled streets, secret patios and colossal cathedral on a panoramic bus tour. There'll also be free time to indulge in some shopping.

free cancellation

Available in:

Excursions & day trips

Andalusia Tour from Algarve with Wine Tasting

One of Spain's most beautiful and unspoiled corners is right next door to the Algarve. Huelva boasts landscapes of protected wetlands pockmarked by history-steeped towns. You'll visit the city of Huelva, and stop off to explore El Rocío, Caravels Dock, as well as enjoy a visit to a winery. Maria, one of our expert local guides, says, 'Apart from its religious significance, El Rocío is also known for its unique architectural style, characterised by whitewashed buildings with colourful trim and traditional wooden balconies. The town has a distinctly rustic and charming atmosphere, with sandy streets and a laid-back vibe'.You'll start the tour with a guided tour of Huelva city, browsing the market, then taking a spiritual turn with a visit to El Rocio – one of Spain's most important pilgrimage sites – where faith and tradition paint a vivid picture of Spanish culture. Drop by a shop specialising in frilly flamenco dresses, a true emblem of Spain. Enjoy some free time here to explore the town's charming streets. Next up, is a visit to the Caravels Dock in La Rabida – you'll get to snap up pics of this waterfront exhibition with life-size replicas of Columbus's three ships before delving into the world of wines at the Bollullos winery. Immerse yourself in the flavours and aromas of the region with a tasting session, complemented by an assortment of tapas that promise to leave your taste buds tingling.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, en, fr

Excursions & day trips

Ayamonte Authentic Andalusia Tour

Perched on the banks of the River Guadiana that separates Portugal and Spain, Ayamonte blends the best of both countries cultures. Discover Andalusian charm and delicious cuisine on this tour of an Iberian gem.Located just a stone's throw from the border, arriving in the Spanish town you'll get an impressive view of Portugal's Castro Marim castle – a remnant of the centuries of war between the two. Delve deeper into the history here with a guided tour of the medieval quarter and admire the traditional blue and white tiles at every turn.After free time to sip coffee in the square, shop the boutiques or rummage for trinkets and treasures in the marketplace, you'll be ready for lunch. Stop by Vive Ayamonte gastro-shop and a feast of tasty tapas, traditional paella and wine awaits. What's more, it's all served up with a side order of fantastic flamenco entertainment in their beautiful courtyard, reserved exclusively for TUI.

free cancellation

Available in:

de, es, en, fr, nl

Activities

Full-day Algarve 4x4 Sightseeing Tour with Boat Ride

Jump into the heart of Ria Formosa on a thrilling full-day tour from Albufeira, cruising through picturesque villages and vibrant landscapes in an open-top 4x4. Experience the bustling life of Olhão and enjoy a relaxing boat ride through Ria Formosa, with a stop at an island along the way. Santiago, one of our local expert guides says “this trip is really perfect if you want to explore the Algarve in a more adventurous way. The 4x4 we use immerses you more into the locations we visit a lot better than a bus or minivan would. Plus, since it's open-top, you don't have to worry about window glare when you're taking pictures while we're on the move.”Hop aboard your open-top 4x4, and you'll venture off the beaten path to uncover the hidden beauties of Ria Formosa's diverse ecosystems. Learn about the sustainable practices that help preserve the area's unique environment, including salt extraction and microalgae cultivation – vital for maintaining biodiversity and supporting the local economy. You'll also visit the town of Olhão, a lively centre of fishing and maritime traditions. Here, stroll through bustling markets filled with fresh seafood, mingle with the locals or grab some unique souvenirs. After some free time, you'll board a boat to glide over the serene waters of Ria Formosa. There's a stop at another of the natural islands, too, where you can relax and swim in the calm waters.

free cancellation

Available in:

en, fr

Boat tour to Ria Formosa Natural Park from Olhão

What people say about this experience

Excellent