Tour Description

Birdwatching tours at Salgados Lagoon in Algarve, near Albufeira, stands as a wonderful destination for birdwatchers, offering a blend of natural beauty and an abundance of birdlife waiting to be explored and admired.
Visitors can take leisurely walks along the trails, immersing themselves in the serene ambiance and discovering the diverse flora and fauna that call this area home.The lagoon has diverse habitats, including wetlands, marshes, and dunes, foster a rich array of flora and fauna.

Have a close contact with nature while discovering some of Algarve’s colourful birds, as, for example, the rare Purple Swamphen or the Kingfisher.

Walk along Salgados Lagoon, one of the region’s most renowned birdwatching hotspots, where Black-winged Stilt, Greater Flamingo, Spoonbill, Mediterranean Gull and many waders occur.
This is also an area of important occurrence of the rare Squacco Heron, Audouin’s Gull and Ferruginous Duck.

Discover these and many other bird species with the help of our specialized birdwatching guide with 30 years of field experience and writer of some Algarve’s birdbooks.
You will be guided through this remarkable nature experience by a true specialist!

The picturesque scenery and abundant wildlife offer excellent opportunities for nature photography, capturing the beauty of the lagoon and its inhabitants.

Algarve Nature Tours – Birdwatching Tours

Curiosities: Seasonal Birdwatching Calendar

Winter (December – February):

• Key Species: Various waterbirds like flamingos, spoonbills, herons, and ducks find refuge in the wetlands during this time. Raptors such as marsh harriers and ospreys might also be spotted.
• Activities: Guided tours focusing on observing the influx of migratory birds seeking warmer climates. Birdwatchers can witness the spectacular gatherings of diverse avian species.

Spring (March – May):

• Key Species: Breeding season for many birds. Expect to see waders, warblers, and several species of passerines amidst vibrant displays of courtship and nesting behaviors.
• Activities: Opportunities for observing courtship rituals and bird nests, especially in the reed beds and nesting areas. Birdsong is plentiful during this period.

Summer (June – August):

• Key Species: Resident species continue to thrive. Flamingos and other waterbirds may still be present. Raptors such as booted eagles might be seen soaring overhead.
• Activities: Early morning or late afternoon birdwatching excursions to avoid the heat. Focus on resident species and their behaviors during this period.

Autumn (September – November):

• Key Species: Migratory birds begin their return journey from breeding grounds. Passage migrants include various waders, terns, and some raptors.
• Activities: Prime time for observing the departure of some species and the arrival of others. Nature walks and guided tours to witness the changing bird populations.

This seasonal birdwatching calendar in the Ria Formosa area of Algarve highlights the diverse avian activity across different times of the year, allowing birding expeditions based on the specific bird species and behaviors they wish to observe.

Gear and Essentials:

• Binoculars or spotting scopes are essential. Invest in quality gear suited for birdwatching.
• Field guides or bird identification apps can aid in species identification.
• Dress appropriately for the terrain and weather. Comfortable clothing and sturdy footwear are crucial

Salgados Lagoon in Algarve stands as a serene and biodiverse destination, inviting visitors to immerse themselves in its natural beauty and witness the wonders of its thriving birds population.

Respect Nature: Practice ethical birdwatching by respecting the birds’ habitat and avoiding any disturbance to their environment.

What’s included: