ria formosa tour

The Algarvian Queen

Discover the natural park of ria formosa with us.

Visit Algarve , we proudly say this to the World, this is a region with a lot of things to do , experiences like boat tours in the Ria Formosa Natural Park , a wonderful lagoon system to discover , do birdwatching , visit the emblematic Desert Island , the picturesque Island villages and  Faro Old Town  with its historical monuments . 

RIA FORMOSA BOAT TOURS

What to do in Algarve ?

Come with us and  discover  the  Ria Formosa   Natural Park  on a fabulous  boat tour !

An  experienced team  determined to provide your holidays best boat trip . Experience ecotourism in one of Portugal's 7 natural wonders. Book one of our tours at Ria Formosa an enjoy our exclusive vessel " The Algarvian Queen ", totally acessible for people with reduced mobility .  

Ria Formosa Boat Tours has the " Clean and Safe " stamp, created by the Portuguese Tourism Board, it's intended to distinguish tourist activities which are compliant with hygienic requirements for the prevention and control of COVID-19 and also other possible infections.

We are committed to guaranteeing our safety and the safety of our customers.

RIA FORMOSA - ALGARVE

“Any telegraphic description would simply say 2 peninsulas, 5 islands, 6 piers, marshlands and a scent of salt. On the one side, the sea, on the other and before land, the estuary.”

“One of the interesting originality is the general layout of the system itself, forming roughly a scalene triangle (one vertex is the so-called Santa Maria cape, on Barreta island).”

“The 5 barrier islands and two salt marshes extend over 55 km. The lagoons are very dynamic systems and this, in particular, has undergone morphological changes as a result of the tsunami caused by the huge 1755 earthquake wich destroyed Lisbon.”

Natural.pt (2019)

Ria Formosa Sunset Experience

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The Sun's Edge

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Welcome to formosamar we’re an ecotourism company operating in the algarve..

Our team organizes boat trips, activities, and tours in the incredible Ria Formosa National Park and along the Algarve’s stunning coastline.

From hitting the water in a boat or kayak to exploring on foot or a bike, our activities in Faro allow you to experience paradise your way.

At Formosamar, our mission is to promote and protect the Ria Formosa.

Not only is this special place one of Europe’s most important protected areas, but it’s also one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Portugal.

Formosamar is certified as “Clean & Safe” by Turismo de Portugal. We are committed to guaranteeing that all those who visit us comply with the recommended safety standards to mitigate the effect of Covid19.

Are you looking for unforgettable things to do in Faro and the Algarve? Check out our full range of Ria Formosa tours and activities .

If you have any questions about our tours from Faro or our rental services, please don’t hesitate to get in touch .

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8 best ria formosa boat tours to take in 2024.

One of the most underrated things to do when visiting the Algarve is to visit Ria Formosa Natural Park in the eastern Algarve . The best way to explore the wetlands and barrier islands is by joining one of the Ria Formosa boat tours from either Faro or Olhão .

There are many different kinds of boat trips in Ria Formosa visiting different islands, bird watching, sunset tours, guided tours, and individual travel options. I’ve done quite a lot of these different boat trips and loved them all!

You might look for a few hours on the water or have a tight schedule so you can only fit in a 1-hour excursion.

Don’t worry, there’s something for you in this roundup of the best boat tours of Ria Formosa and I’ve separated them so you can easily find the ones leaving from Faro and those leaving from Olhão.

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links. That means that if you make a purchase through one of those links, I will get a small commission at no extra cost to you.

IN A HURRY? HERE ARE MY TOP RIA FORMOSA BOAT TOUR PICKS! ⭐Best Private Tour From Olhao: Private Boat Tour to Ria Formosa ⭐Best group tour From Faro: 4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour ⭐Best Eco Tour From Faro: 2-Hour Guided Bird Watching Boat Trip

Best Ria Formosa boat trips from Olhão

Private boat tour to ria formosa.

• Duration: 4 hours
• Explores: Ilha Deserta, Ilha Farol, Ilha Culatra, and Ilha Armona
• Included: life jackets, local guide, drinks
• Not included: hotel pickup and drop-off, food
• Wheelchair accessible: Yes

This is by far one of my favorite Ria Formosa boat tours as it takes you to so many of the islands including Armona Island which not many of the other trips include.

As a private tour, it’s only you and your own party on the boat which makes it a lot more adjustable if you want to skip an island, spend more time in one place, or spend less time in another place.

👉 BOOK PRIVATE RIA FORMOSA CRUISE

Ria Formosa 3-Island Full-Day Tour

• Duration: 5 hours
• Explores: Ilha Farol, Ilha Culatra, and Ilha Armona
• Included: life jackets, local guide, water, map of Ria Formosa’s birds
• Wheelchair accessible: N/A

This is an epic boat tour exploring several of Ria Formosa’s barrier islands. I really enjoyed this tour of Ria Formosa – it was the first one I ever took and it gave an excellent introduction to the Barrier Islands.

You can choose whether you prefer to have lunch at Culatra Island or head across the island to reach the beach.

If you’re looking for a full-day adventure this is a great option as it sometimes becomes longer than 5 hours too (we took 6 hours, but was also a very small group.)

👉 BOOK RIA FORMOSA GROUP TOUR

Best Ria Formosa boat tours from Faro

Private tour for two: sunset boat trip in faro.

• Duration: 1.5 hours
• Explores: Ria Natural Park at sunset
• Included: sparkling wine, life jackets, local guide

Tour Ria Formosa with your significant other on this romantic private boat tour. Ria Formosa turns into the most romantic sight at sunset when all the vibrant colors of the sky reflect in the water of the lagoons.

This is the ideal Faro boat tour for you if you plan to propose or if you’re on your honeymoon. But it can also just be an insanely romantic date!

👉 BOOK PRIVATE SUNSET BOAT TRIP RIA FORMOSA

4 Stops, 3 Islands in Ria Formosa Catamaran Tour

• Explores: Ilha Deserta, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Culatra
• Included: snorkeling gear, life jackets, local guide
• Not included: hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks
• Wheelchair accessible: No

This is a great Ria Formosa boat trip taking you to the mesmerizing Ilha Deserta, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Culatra.

On the way to the islands, you’ll cross the unique salt marshes of the natural park where you can see a magnitude of bird species. Once you reach Ilha Deserta, you can get in the water and go swimming and snorkeling.

Then you will visit both Ilha Farol and Ilha Culatra where you’ll get time to explore the fishing villages and stroll across the nature reserves to explore the sweeping beaches.

There’s enough time to have lunch at Culatra Island, but if you prefer, I highly recommend walking across the island to the beach and going for a dip.

👉 BOOK 3 ISLANDS BOAT TRIP RIA FORMOSA

2-Hour Guided Bird Watching Boat Trip

• Duration: 2 hours
• Explores: Bird watching in Ria Formosa Natural Park
• Included: life jackets, local guide, binoculars

Ria Formosa is one of the most important resting spots in Europe for migrating birds and a busy hub for aquatic birds.

The place doesn’t need more introduction as a mecca for bird watchers and this Ria Formosa boat tour is exactly for you who love observing birds.

And even if you haven’t been bird watching before, I can say from experience that I found it extremely interesting and we saw heaps of cool birds hunting in the water which was nothing short of magical.

This tour is a hands-on spectacular nature experience that you won’t regret adding to your Algarve itinerary .

👉 BOOK BIRD WATCHING EXCURSION RIA FORMOSA

Ria Formosa Hop-On Hop-Off Island Cruise

• Duration: 1 day
• Explores: Ilha Barreta, Ilha do Farol, and Ilha da Culatra
• Included: ferry shuttle service
• Not included: hotel pickup and drop-off, food and drinks, guide

This is a great option for you if you prefer to visit the barrier islands individually. The ferry service goes between Barreta Island, Farol Island, and Culatra Island.

You can use the ticket the entire day so it gives you a lot more freedom to explore the different islands over a longer period of time as opposed to the regular Ria Formosa boat trips that usually just last 3-4 hours giving you limited time on each stop.

The downside with this option is that you miss out on a local guide to learn more about the natural park.

Make sure you bring your swimwear, snorkel, and sunscreen so that you get the most out of it!

👉 BOOK HOP-ON-HOP-OFF RIA FORMOSA BOAT TRIP

Eco Boat Tour in the Ria Formosa Lagoon from Faro

• Duration: 1 hour
• Explores: Ria Formosa Natural Park and its wildlife
• Included: life jackets, local guide

If you’re looking for an eco-tour of Ria Formosa, this is the one for you. Take in the unique natural reserve from a solar-powered boat.

I love this tour as groups are small and it’s a sustainable option to see the protected area – so you know you’re not doing any harm while exploring it.

In this excursion, Ria Formosa’s unique ecosystem and wildlife are in focus allowing you to learn lots about this incredible natural space.

Since it’s a short tour of only an hour, it’s ideal even if you go on a day trip to Faro .

👉 BOOK ECO TOUR RIA FORMOSA

Ria Formosa Sunset Boat Trip

• Explores: Ria Formosa Natural Park at sunset

Going on a Ria Formosa cruise at sunset is hard to beat. I particularly enjoyed the reflections in the lagoons as the sun went down.

This is an affordable alternative to the private sunset tour I mentioned earlier. Yet, they only take small groups and in a solar-powered boat so it’s not too crowded taking away from the magic.

👉 BOOK SUNSET RIA FORMOSA CRUISE

Conclusion: Boat tours in Ria Formosa

As you can tell, there is a wealth of boat tours to choose from when you want to explore Ria Formosa Natural Park.

I hope you found one or two that suits your itinerary and interests whether you’re based in Faro or Olhão. And no matter where you are, it’s actually just a 10-minute drive between the two.

Happy travels!

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Ria Formosa & Faro Tours and Boat Tours

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Why book faro tours and boat trips with lands, our mission.

Our mission is to promote the Algarve and Ria Formosa. Our tours and activities have a strong interpretive component, seeking to promote what’s unique in Portugal’s southernmost region.

Local Business

Founded in 2003, we were one of the first local companies to specialise in Portugal boat tours, trips, and activities specialized in nature-based tourism.

LOCAL GUIDES IN THE ALGARVE

Whether on our Faro trips or walking tours, we are a friendly team and we’re always here to help. We want our guests to have the best possible experience during their stay in the Algarve.

Sustainable Tourism

Lands is committed to sustainable tourism throughout all of our activities in Faro. We do eco-friendly tours in the Algarve, with a special focus on the Ria Formosa Nature Park.

Popular Activities in Faro, Portugal

Ria Formosa & Faro Kayak Rental Service

Ria Formosa Kayaking Tour from Faro, Algarve

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Enjoy nature on our faro tours.

Lands – Turismo na Natureza hosts fun and engaging eco-friendly boat tours in Ria Formosa and experiences in Faro all year long!

Led by nature lovers and certified biologists, our boat tours in the Algarve and activities in Faro offer unforgettable experiences in the beautiful Ria Formosa, all leaving from Faro.

With multiple Faro tours to enjoy one of Portugal’s Seven Natural Wonders, there is no better way to experience Ria Formosa than through an eco-tour with Lands. Join us on a smooth birdwatching boat trip in the Algarve , in the search for the birds and nature of the Algarve’s Ria Formosa or a Ria Formosa kayaking adventure to experience the natural beauty of this stunning area.

Kayak rental is also possible to head out on a leisurely paddle and take in the beauty of Faro’s Ria Formosa unique habitats on your own time. Walking tours and birdwatching activities in the westernmost part of Ria Formosa also offer memorable outings with local guides who enjoy nature as much as you do.

Since 2003, many guests have joined our eco-friendly activities in Faro, Portugal! Not sure where to begin? Our Ria Formosa Eco-friendly Solar Boat Tour is the most popular one! Join us – we’d love to show you around!

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Whether you have got a question or just want to say hello, get in touch with us.

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As a Clean & Safe certified company, Lands – Turismo na Natureza commits to comply with health safety recommendations issued by the National Tourism Authority according to National Health Authority guidelines.

You’re Safe with us. We want you to have the best experience in Ria Formosa during your holiday in the Algarve.

Enjoy your experience in Portugal and all its beauty in safety.

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Faro and Ria Formosa Articles & Travel Guides

A New Look For Lands, Same Brilliant Eco-Boat Tours

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Top 10 Reasons to Go Birdwatching in The Algarve

The Ria Formosa – The Ultimate Guide to the Ria Formosa [2024]

Deserted islands, white-sand beaches, crystal-clear waters, the Ria Formosa is a truly special place and unlike no other in Portugal. Named as one of Portugal’s seven natural wonders. It’s both nationally and internationally recognised as a protected habitat and home to a wide array of life. Its waters, its islands, and the life inside are intrinsically related to the wider region and its development. Intrigued yet? Read on to find out more about the incredible Ria Formosa in southern Portugal.

The Ria Formosa: An Introduction

The Ria Formosa is a coastal lagoon with a seaward belt of sandbars and islands protecting a shallow lagoon system. Specifically, it is a tidal lagoon which means it is regularly flooded by the sea’s tides.

The tides are entirely responsible for the water circulation inside the lagoon. Within the lagoon are a wide variety of both natural and manmade habitats. The most important natural habitats are the saltmarshes, seagrass meadows, sand dunes, and tidal channels. Which all harbour an impressive array of marine and bird wildlife. As well as this, the Ria Formosa has provided protection, food, and wealth to the people around it.

It’s been inhabited by humans for at least two thousand years, and possibly longer! In 1987 due to it’s unique habitat and biodiversity it became a national park protected by the ICNF (Instituto da Conservação da Natureza e das Florestas). The Portuguese government organisation for the protection of nature and forests.

The Geography of the Ria Formosa

The lagoon has a roughly triangular shape and stretches for nearly 60km along the coast of the east Algarve, Portugal. At it’s widest its nearly 6km wide, and its narrowest is under 100m.

The Ria Formosa is separated from the ocean by two mainland attached spits and five separate barrier islands. From east to west, the five barrier islands are Barreta (Deserta), Culatra, Armona, Tavira and Cabanas.

The two peninsulas are Ancão (locally known as Praia or Ilha de Faro) and Peninsula da Cacela. This series of islands and peninsulas is what protects the lagoon from the extremities of the ocean. Along this stretch are several important, and formerly important towns and villages. These towns are often referred to as ‘gateway towns to the Ria Formosa’. Due to their access and history of development with the lagoon. From East to West, they are Faro, Olhão, Fuseta, Tavira, and Cacela Velha. 

A Brief History of the Ria Formosa 

If you’re familiar with any of those towns, you’ll be familiar with some of Portugal’s longest history.  Human occupation of the lagoon system and nearby is documented to as far back as Roman times, and maybe even earlier. It’s not just in the modern day that the lagoon has been modified and managed by humans.

For example, salt production, and the creation of saltpans has been dated to the Romans. With large quantities of salt and sheltered waters. Fish farming and the creation of fish preserves became an important industry alongside salt production. Large tanks believed to be for salting or preservation have been found across the Algarve, notably in Cacela Velha. The importance of fishing and the sea on local life, can’t be understated and a tour of several historical monuments will confirm this. Many mosaics, like those in Milreu are covered in marine motifs .

Following the Romans, came the Visigoths a Germanic tribe of Scandinavian origin, then came the north African Moors. Which left their mark in many places of the Ria Formosa too. As much as the lagoon offered, the prosperous communities based here were obvious targets to piracy and raiding. You’ll be able to find an important array of defensive structures along the land and coast. Many of these have ties to the Moorish period, some being continuously updated throughout history. Notable examples are the Forte de Cacela Velha, the ruins of Forte de Rato near Tavira, and Faro’s impressive walled old town. The archaeological remains of various periods of human occupation can be found within many of the museums of the region.

The Ecology and Wildlife of the Ria Formosa

Despite the ever-changing nature of the Ria Formosa and its development alongside some of the Algarve’s oldest towns and villages. It’s still an area of incredible natural beauty and haven of wildlife. The lagoon is a winter home for birds from north and central Europe. As well as being an important stopping point for many migratory species. Over 200 different species can be found here, including the rare purple swamphen, which is also the national park’s mascot.

There is an immense amount of diversity across many of the habitats that you can find in the lagoon. Among the barrier islands and inside the lagoon you’ll find saltmarshes, mudflats, dunes, salt pans and tidal channels. All contributing to the diversity of the flora and fauna of the region.

The ecological value of the Ria Formosa is recognized and protected by both international and national conservation agreements. Within Portugal, it became a Natural Park in 1987 and is governed by the ICNF. Internationally, it’s included within the Natura 2000 network and Ramsar Convention on wetlands.

How to Visit the Ria Formosa

The Ria Formasa Natural Park covers a massive 170 km². While the lagoon only covers around 80 km² of that, it’s simply not possible to list everything that you can see and do. However, we’ll attempt to try and give you a taste of what is possible! In the following section you’ll find a few of our favourite places and things to do when visiting the Ria Formosa!

For the Beach Lovers: The Best Beaches in the Ria Formosa

Within the Ria Formosa, you can find a beach for practically everyone. Everything, from your more typical tourist beaches filled with family activities, to practically deserted beaches you can enjoy privately. Here’s our favourite beaches in the Ria Formosa:

Praia da Ilha da Farol

A short ferry ride from Faro or Olhão is Ilha da Farol, and its beach Praia da Ilha da Farol . This is one of the beaches that often gets referred to as an island paradise. Crystal clear water, and white near tropical sand makes this a true paradise for beach lovers. It’s not completely remote though, you’ll still find small cafés, lifeguards and the beach necessities!

Praia de Faro

Praia de Faro : Faro’s beach is often seen as more of local’s beach, than one for the tourists. It’s less developed than the beaches along the coast but still offers plenty for beach goers. It’s also nearly 9km long and has loads of space should you want it.

Praia da Fuseta, Fuseta

Praia da Fuseta : Praia da Fuseta is a family beach in Fuseta. Instead of facing the sea, it’s gently sloping beach faces the inside of the lagoon. This means its extremely calm, there’s days when there are almost no waves at all. Being within the lagoon, the water is also slightly warmer than the sea! It’s a great family beach, or a beach where you can learn to kayak, or stand up paddle board without waves distracting you!

Praia da Cacela Velha, Cacela Velha

Praia da Cacela Velha : Praia da Cacela Velha is a beach paradise, without the need for ferries. A short walk will lead you down from the historic village to a large expanse of sand split by several sections of the shallow lagoon. The shallow lagoon makes for a great and very warm paddling and swimming.

There are so many more beaches to discover in the Ria Formosa. We can’t list them all, but these ones above, will definitely get you started.

For the Wildlife and Nature Lovers: How to Enjoy the Ria Formosa

If you’re a nature lover and want to experience some of the more natural side of the Ria Formosa here’s our top picks of places to go and things to do!

Parque Natural da Ria Formosa Visitor Centre, Olhão

Perhaps the best introduction to the Ria Formosa and some of its wildlife is the official visitor centre located on the outskirts of Olhão. It has as a small visitor centre, a circular walk with informational signs, and a restored tide mill that’s now a museum. It’s not only seabirds and marine life, if you look carefully you might also spot rare chameleons among the trees! It costs €3 to enter and your fee supports the ICNF and infrastructure of the park.

The Ludo Trail, Faro

The Ludo Trail in Faro is the simplest, and shortest way of dipping your toes into the wild side of the Ria Formosa. The Ludo Trail is a short hike on the outskirts of Faro. With several informational boards on the occupants you might come across. On one side of the trail you have the natural tidal lagoon and on the other you’ll find manmade saltpans. Both sides are home to an impressive array of wildlife! It’s one of our favourite places to easily find flamingos in the Algarve too!

Hiking in the Saltpans

Tavira is another popular walking and birdwatching location. On either side of the mouth of the Gilao River in Tavira are many of the saltpans and mudflats that marine birds forage in. Quatro Caminhos and the fortress Forte de Santo Antonio de Tavira (although its in ruins) make a great focal point to walk to with lots of opportunity for wildlife spotting along the way.

Ilha da Culatra

While the other options will get you up close to the water and some of the wildlife within it. Hiking on Ilha da Culatra will allow you to explore some of the protected sand dunes that also make up the unique habitats of the lagoon. 

Boat Trips in the Ria Formosa

Multiple tour operators will take you on trips into the lagoon from Faro, Olhão and Fuseta. There are a wide variety of options, but most will take you into many of the channels and usually stop on one or two of the islands or deserted beaches. Full day, half day, afternoon (2-3 hours) and sunset trips can be organised at any of the marinas and you don’t need to leave the towns to depart. Specific wildlife watching, fishing or deserted island tours can be arranged!

For the Culture lovers: The Best Places to Visit in the Ria Formosa

Faro, The Algarve’s Capital City

Faro is the capital of the Algarve and the largest city connected to the Ria Formosa. It’s walled old town has as much charm and history as some of the oldest towns in Portugal. It’s also got several museums and a lively restaurant scene for the foodies. From its palm tree lined marina, you can book an array of tours and trips further into the lagoon.

Olh ão is a traditional fishing town, its historic market buildings contain the best fish market in the Algarve. Nearby you’ll find some of the best and most reasonably priced fish restaurants too! At its docks you’ll also find a selection of tours and ferries to help you experience the Ria Formosa properly.

Tavira blends the charms and history of both Faro and Olhão. Compared to Faro its much more subdued, the slow flowing river sets the pace of life in Tavira. Compared to Olhão, it’s a lot less industrialised and less rugged. Among many of its cobbled streets you’ll find pastelerias and shops selling local handicrafts. You’ll also find museums, several beautiful churches, and a historic castle. 

Cacela Velha

Cacela Velha is a tiny but beautiful former fishing village which is a personal favourite of ours to go and visit. It’s also a step back in time, and looking down towards the Ria Formosa from the walls of its historic fortress is impressive. Did we mention the beach? It’s one of our favourites in the Algarve! 

For the Active: The Best Things to do in the Ria Formosa to Keep You Active

Cycling : The Algarve has many exceptional cycling routes. One of the best in the Ria Formosa is the ‘Ciclovia de Tavira’. It’s a route that will take you along the Gilão River, through the saltpans and to Cabanas on old roads. It’s a great route that will get you active and hopefully introduced to some wildlife along the way. There are multiple places to hire bicycles in both Tavira and Cabanas, although its still great to walk along if you prefer that.

Stand-up Paddle Boarding : The calm waters of Fuseta are a great place to learn stand-up paddle boarding. Multiple vendors offer board hire and lessons. Head to Ilha da Deserta, and you’ll find more board hire and lessons too!

Kayaking and Kayaking Tours: Kayaking is an incredible way to keep active and view some of the intricate details of the Ria Formosa. You’ll be able to paddle down channels to shallow for boats and get closer to the shallows and wildlife than the traditional boat tours. If you’re confident in your kayak skills, then you can simply rent one for a day and explore at your own pace and find your own island and beach!

Surfing: The east Algarve is not well known for its surfing, as its much more popular in the west. You can catch a wave and learn to surf on Praia de Faro. There are multiple surf schools based there that offer board hire and lessons.

Hiking : There are many great routes for you to hike within the Ria Formosa. The above-mentioned Ludo Trail is a great place to start hiking. It’s a 7km long route through a small section of the Ria Formosa that features both the natural lagoon and the saltponds. Many of the beaches are also great places to walk and explore, Ilha da Culatra has a great route through its sand dunes.

What’s the Best Island to Visit in the Ria Formosa?

With multiple boat trips and ferries available, and with people often short on time. A question we get asked a lot is which is the best island to visit in the Ria Formosa? The decision comes down to personal choice and what you’re looking for in your island experience.

Our favourite is Ilha da Culatra , to us it captures the remote desert island feel without feeling overly commercialised. You’ll find several communities that actually live on the island, and with them a small selection of more local cafés and restaurants. Walk outside of the small villages and you’ll find your desert island. For us, the island that’s marketed as being deserted, Ilha da Deserta is the most touristy of the lot. It might be uninhibited, but there’s still a large restaurant and bar, and a large number of tourists. The main beach gets very busy during the summer season which to us is against the point of a deserted island!

The Best Tours and Activities in the Ria Formosa

The Ria Formosa is an incredibly diverse place to visit – offering an activity for almost everyone. What’s more, with multiple ”access points” you’re bound to find something within easy distance. The main places for boat trips and tours are usually Faro, Olhão and Tavira. You’ll also find smaller trips and activities available in places like Fuseta too! Many of these trips will take you into the Ria Formosa to experience the wildlife, snorkeling, or even kayaking. Take a look at the best selection here!

Should You Visit the Ria Formosa?

The Ria Formosa is an incredible place and combines some of the best aspects of the Algarve, while being able to experience the great outdoors and nature. There really is something for everyone, and a way to experience it that anyone can enjoy.

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How to visit the Ria Formosa, Algarve? ( the complete guide for 2024)

By: Author Kris

Posted on Last updated: February 21, 2024

Are you wondering how to visit the Ria Formosa in the Algarve? You came to the right place.

The South of Portugal may be best known for the impressive rural coastline, but once you have seen the Ria Formosa in the Algarve you will immediately fall in love with it.

The Ria Formosa is a lagoon that hugs the southern coast of Portugal over a length of 60 km from Faro all the way to Tavira. It is a natural park with picturesque white sandy beaches and serves as a protected habitat for a wide array of wildlife. It is a must-visit on every Algarve itinerary.

Nature lovers and bird spotters alike will love this region. It is not for nothing that it received an award as 1 of the 7 natural wonders of the country in 2010.

Here we share everything you need to know when you are planning a visit to this wonderful area.

This post may contain affiliate links. If you click one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

Is this your first trip to the Algarve and are you eager to see all the highlights?

Use our Algarve Travel Planner to create your itinerary. It comes with loads of suggestions and will make your travel planning less stressful and more enjoyable.

In a hurry? Here you will find the most important information about visiting Ria Formosa national park

• The Ria Formosa Natural Park can be best described as a protected area of wetlands and can be visited year-round.
• Ria Formosa bird watching tour in solar boat
• Ria Formosa bird watching day tour

Ria Formosa catamaran tour

Ria formosa segway tour.

• Beach lovers should check out Praia da Cacela Velha, Praia da ilha da Culatra, Praia de Faro, Praia do Barril and Praia da Fuseta.
• The Ria Formosa is full of wildlife it is also a great place for hiking.
• It’s surrounded by some interesting places to visit.
• If you plan on visiting the Ria Formosa, we recommend staying in Faro , Olhão or Tavira.

Ria Formosa Natural Park

The Ria Formosa plays an important role in the lives of the inhabitants of Faro, Olhão, and Tavira.

Over 170 square kilometers has been designated as a natural park and ensures a nice influx of tourists. Outside the protected areas you will find other activities such as seafood farms.

The Ria Formosa Natural Park can be best described as a protected area of wetlands.

It consists of a combination of salt marshes, fresh and brackish lagoons, mangroves, and sand dunes. On top of the natural habitats, there are also agricultural areas and saltpans that provide a living for the local residents.

The unique blend of natural and manmade environments attracts many different species of wildlife. Wildlife in the park includes birds such as flamingoes and waders, mammals including foxes and badgers, reptiles such as turtles and snakes, amphibians including frogs and newts, and insects such as dragonflies and beetles.

Many birds also come to winter in the Ria Formosa national park because of its mild climate.

The lagoon itself is protected by a belt of 5 barrier islands. These islands are genuine paradises for sunseekers as they have some of the best-unspoiled islands in the Algarve.

The varied landscape of the Parque Natural de Ria Formosa means that you can explore the region in a combination of ways. Further on in this post, we look at the different options in more detail.

A good place to learn more about the park is the official visitor center. The Parque Natural da Ria Formosa Visitor Center can be found a little outside Olhão in Quinta de Marim.

At the visitor center is a 3km interpretative hike with various bird hides along the way. You will also pass a tide mill that has been transformed into a museum.

When to visit the Ria Formosa

The Ria Formosa Natural Park can be visited year-round so there are plenty of opportunities to explore its golden beaches and wetland ecosystems. The best time to visit may depend on your objectives though.

Summer tends to be the busiest season. For a more peaceful experience, it is best to avoid the summer crowds.

Outside of that, you can safely visit every season knowing that you will always be able to observe a wide array of birds and other animals.

The Ria Formosa in the Algarve is great for bird-watching any time of the year.

A considerable number of species come winter in the Ria Formosa and the park is also a nesting site for birds that arrive in spring or spend the entire year in the region.

Birders should check out these guided tours.

Eco-friendly Ria Formosa bird watching tour in a solar boat and the birdwatching day tour.

More about these tours later in this post.

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Things to do in Ria Formosa

We already mentioned that the Ria Formosa Natural Park can be explored in several different ways.

The most popular options are on foot or by boat.

They both offer an amazing experience but they are not the only ways to enjoy the park.

Here we will list some suggestions for what to do when visiting the Ria Formosa in the Algarve.

Numerous beaches can be found within the natural park.

We do not list them all but we decided to highlight some of the best beaches for various interests.

Praia da Cacela Velha

This beach is separated from the mainland by a wide lagoon. Depending on the tide it requires a boat trip (from nearby Fábrica) or a long hike to get there. That also explains why the beach is usually mostly deserted.

The water in the lagoon is shallow and a little warmer than the ocean. That makes the lagoon the ideal playground for the little ones.

The charming whitewashed town of Cacela Velha is also worth a visit.

If you want to spend a peaceful day at the beach and don’t mind the extra effort this is the place to go. It was named one of the best beaches of the world by Condé Nast Traveler in 2015.

• Best beach canopy for windy conditions
• Best wind resistant beach tent

Praia da Ilha da Culatra

Culatra is one of the barrier islands of the Ria Formosa. The island is inhabited but there are no paved roads and it can only be reached by ferry. It has a truly remote feeling.

The southern side of the island is 1 long beautiful sand strip.

Ferries to Culatra leave from both Faro and Olhão.

Once you get off at Culatra you follow the wooden boardwalk that leads to the beach at the opposite side of the island. It’s a 15-minute walk.

There is a beach bar and if you didn’t bring your own beach supplies you can rent it. Prices here are a little more expensive than on the mainland though.

The rustic town of Culatra is really out of this world and an absolute must-see. While there you can also spend a few quiet hours on the beach.

Praia de Faro

Faro beach is more popular amongst locals than tourists.

Tourists often skip this beach and instead opt for the more picturesque or secluded beaches found in other parts of the Algarve.

Whilst there’s no arguing that other beaches may indeed be more appealing the asset of Faro beach is the many beach bars.

Praia de Faro is an excellent place to watch the sunset while sipping a cocktail on the beach.

Despite its name, the beach is not that close to the city center.

The two are separated by the Ria Formosa.

To get there you would either need a bike or a car.

If you don’t have either you can take the ferry which leaves from the marina (it only runs during the summer months) or the bus.

Praia do Barril

This beach is located close to Tavira.

It got its name “anchor beach” because of the Cemitério das Ancoras, a monument to celebrate the tuna fishing community that once was here.

The buildings that used to make up the small fishing village now house shops and restaurants. All beach facilities are present.

The beach is located on Ilha de Tavira which is connected to the mainland by a pedestrian bridge.

You can park your car at the pay parking lot near the bridge or for free along the street.

From there you can walk the last 1.3 kilometers to the beach or you can take the train that runs every 20 minutes from May to September.

There is usually a pleasantly busy atmosphere at Barril beach but you only have to walk a few minutes in either direction to escape the crowds.

If you continue going westwards for more than 2 km you will arrive at a nude beach.

Praia da Fuseta (Mar) & Praia da Fuseta Ria

These lovely beaches can be found a little outside Olhão. They’re usually both referred to as Praia da Fuseta but they are two distinct beaches.

Praia da Fuseta is located on Ilha da Armona, one of the barrier islands of the Ria Formosa.

The beach covers almost the whole southern coast of the island and is thus facing the ocean. To access the beach you need to take a ferry to either Fuseta or Olhão.

Praia da Fuseta Ria is located on the mainland along the lagoon, protected by the island. Thanks to its location in the lagoon, the beach offers many advantages.

The calm waters of the lagoon are ideal for several watersport activities such as kayaking and SUP’ing. Beginning kitesurfers will also love to train their skills in these calm waters before being exposed to the whims of the ocean.

Praia da Fuseta Ria is also sometimes referred to as Praia dos Tesos. The beach is next to the town of Fuseta and there you will also find several shops selling and renting water sports equipment.

Praia da Fuseta Ria is a very family-friendly beach that is also ideal for those who are keen on doing some water sports. The beach features all necessary facilities and numerous restaurants can be found within walking distance in the town of Fuseta. The only real drawback is that the beach does sometimes get crowded.

The Ria Formosa is full of life.

Most of the activity is in the water or in the air but those who carefully pay attention can spot other wildlife as well.

The European Chameleon

This area is one of the few places in Europe where you can still find the European Chameleon.

Unfortunately, these animals are very shy which makes them very hard to spot. Your best chance of photographing them is during September when they leave their hideouts to lay eggs on the soil.

Most visitors are drawn to the Ria Formosa in the Algarve for the birds.

Birders love the place because of the colorful line-up of feathered friends.

More than 300 species can be seen in these wetlands. Numerous bird-watching cabins are spread throughout the park and the birdwatching is very accessible.

The Purple Swamphen

The Purple Swamphen is a resident of the area and can be seen year-round. It is the symbol of the National Park. Other birds that can be found are the Little Tern, the Audouin’s Gull, the Black-winged Stilt, the Grey Plover, the Sardinian Warbler, and many more.

The bird population rises in autumn and winter when migratory birds come to winter in the region.

The Ria Formosa covers an area of 179 square kilometers consisting of different kinds of vegetation. If you want to get a specific species on your camera you will have to do some research in advance as certain species prefer specific areas of the park over others.

However, if you are not picky, a visit to the Ria Formosa cannot go wrong.

A good starting point is the Ludo and Quinta Do Lago region near Faro airport.

It is one of the breeding grounds for the Purple Swamphen and an excellent area to spot flamingos as well.

Flamingos can usually be found from November to March although there are some that stay in the region year-round.

They love the algae found in the shallow salty waters and are thus commonly found near the salt pans.

It is in fact their diet that makes them pink because they are white when they are born.

It shouldn’t be that hard to spot birds yourself.

The best hours to do so are early in the morning and around sunset. If you want to learn more about the birds and the ecosystem of the Ria Formosa you should join a guided birdwatching tour .

The Ria Formosa is also a great spot to see dolphins . If you’re lucky you might see a school of dolphins passing by while relaxing on one of the beaches of the barrier islands. Those chances are relatively small though.

You have more chances of spotting these cute animals by joining one of the dolphin-watching tours.

Most tours are done with Zodiac boats and leave from Faro.

For about 2 hours you will cruise along the coastline of the barrier islands and look for dolphins, minke whales, and other marine wildlife such as sea turtles.

The Ria Formosa is vast, so it should come as no surprise that there are many hiking trails.

Here’s a selection of some of the best trails, starting with our absolute favorite.

The Ludo trail is situated in between Faro and Quinta do Lago.

The trail passes salt flats, a golf resort, and of course the wetlands that are a fixture in the Ria Formosa Natural Park.

The trail offers excellent opportunities to spot birds.

It passes through the nesting area of the Purple Swamphen and you have high chances of seeing flamingos foraging in the salt pans.

You will likely also see herons, magpies, Black-Winged Stilts, Hoopoes, as well as loads of other birds.

We recommend starting the trail early in the morning.

Not only because this will considerably improve your chances to see these amazing birds, but a large part of the trail is also exposed and it can be really hot in summer.

Be sure to bring enough water.

The trail is a 7 km long loop and almost completely flat. It should be suitable for strollers and if you don’t want to hike it you can also come with your bike.

If you want to try something completely different have a look at this segway tour .

São Lourenço trail

The São Lourenço trail partly overlaps with the Ludo trail.

It is surrounded by the golf course on one side and the wetlands on the other. Naturally, the habitats and birds that you can see are similar to those of the Ludo trail.

You can extend the Ludo trail by incorporating the other part of the São Lourenço trail.

It’s also possible to combine both trails starting with the São Lourenço trail in Quinta do Lago.

When you do, you can enjoy a well-deserved refreshing drink in the beach bar of Quinta do Lago.

It is located right at the beginning/endpoint of the São Lourenço trail.

The trail itself is a 3,3 km out and back trail with limited elevation changes. It can be done with strollers and bikes.

We recommend doing a combination with the Ludo trail.

Quinta do Lago boardwalk

The Quinta do Lago boardwalk was opened during the spring of 2021.

It starts in Ancão where you also find a large parking lot and it connects to the Ludo and São Lourenço trails in Quinta do Lago. It is 4.8 kilometers in length.

The coastal boardwalk is a great place for a leisurely stroll and you can easily combine it with the two hikes mentioned above.

Interpretative hike at the visitor center in Quinta de Marim

As already said above, the official visitor center of the Ria Formosa is located in Quinta de Marim.

At the visitor center, you can learn more about the park and hike the 3.5 km interpretative trail.

The trail lingers between pine forests and marshes and offers numerous opportunities to see passerines and other birds.

Birds that are commonly spotted include the kingfisher, waders, and the Eurasian coot.

There are three bird hideouts and you also pass a tide mill that worked until 1970 and has now been converted into a museum.

This is also where you can find RIAS, the wildlife rescue center of the Ria Formosa.

They watch, among other things, over the survival of the European Pond Turtle in the Algarve. A species that is seen as endangered since 2005.

The rescue center has a small reception area for visitors where you can learn more about their projects.

Hike the Ilha da Culatra trail

Culatra is a place unlike you’ve seen before.

There are no roads and no big shops of any kind. The inhabitants need to take the ferry to buy their groceries.

As soon as you get off the ferry you feel that life here moves at a slower pace.

We already recommended the island for its untouched beach. In addition to that, the island also boasts several kilometers of deserted hiking trails.

The boardwalk from Culatra to the beach will cross the vast dune system and several salt marshes.

Once at the beach, as you continue following the coastline you can spot lots of birds including the spotted redshank, the dunlin, and the common curlew.

It is also possible to walk from Culatra to Hangares or even all the way to Ilha do Farol where you could take the ferry back.

Tavira Saltpans

The Tavira Saltpans are another birding hotspot in the Ria Formosa. It is a vast region that offers many opportunities for hiking.

Near the mouth of the River Gilão, there are mudflats and scrubland that attract species like the Black-tailed Godwit and the Caspian Tern.

This is also where the ferry for Tavira island can be taken.

The island has no saltpans but can be a good birdwatching spot nevertheless.

Depending on the season you can find the Melodious Warbler, the Sardinian Warbler, and the Redstart.

Across the river is a region known as Arraial Ferreira.

The area consists of salt marshes and scrubland mixed with farmland and saltpans.

You will also come across the ruins of Forte do Rato.

Birds that are commonly observed here include the Little Stint, the Spoonbill, the Caspian Tern, and many others.

There are no signposted trails in the Tavira Saltpans but it is almost impossible to get lost. Hikers can explore the region by walking around the salt fields while being amazed by the birds they see.

Places to visit in Ria Formosa

Here we share a list of places that are worth a visit in the Parque Natural de Ria Formosa.

We absolutely love Tavira as we think that it showcases the charm of the Algarve and the Ria Formosa without the tourist crowds.

There are beautiful historic places worth exploring with their old-world charm.

The old town is absolutely worth a visit. The buildings here are some of the most aesthetically pleasing around. They’re sure to impress.

Tavira is also known for its castle dating back to the Almoravid Dynasty in the 1000s.

To explore the Ria Formosa you could use hotel Albacora as your base. This charming hotel is located right inside the park. Formerly a tuna camp, it now offers guests all the comfort they could wish for for a wonderful stay in this beautiful region.

If you prefer staying in an apartment or vacation home in Tavira, click here. 

Cacela Velha

Cacela Velha is a supertiny white-washed village along the Ria Formosa lagoon.

The old town only has a handful of streets, all of them well-conserved and still in their original Algarvian style boasting colorful accents.

The village is situated on a hill and from the viewpoint behind the church in the old town you have distant views over the Ria Formosa. You also overlook the pristine beach of Cacela Velha.

The town is a fishing community and local fishermen still supply the restaurants in town with their daily catches.

In the restaurants, you can feast on squid, clams, prawns, and more delicacies that are coming straight from the ocean.

Some restaurants have cozy rooftop terraces with impressive views.

Olhão

Olhão proclaimed itself as the capital of the Ria Formosa.

It is a good base to explore the lagoon thanks to ferries and numerous water taxis departing from its port. You will also find several tour agencies along the waterfront boardwalk.

Still, that is not the only reason the town deserves a place on this list.

The port city is full of character and there are so many interesting sights. Dotted across the cobblestone streets are numerous beautiful murals.

Some depict the town’s rich history while others are of a more modern kind.

Make sure you get a bite at the local fish market, Olhão is known for its delicious octopus dishes, and take a stroll along the coastal boardwalk and the Avenida da Republica.

Faro is the capital of the Algarve and the only place in the Ria Formosa that deserves to be called a city. Most tourists arriving at Faro airport directly flee from the city to spend their vacation in one of the resort towns.

Yet Faro also has a lot to offer.

At the heart of the city, next to the marina, is the historic old town. The streets here are lined with well-preserved facades, museums, and churches. At the Igreja do Carmo you will find the macabre yet fascinating bone chapel.

Tours to further explore the Ria Formosa are leaving from the Faro Marina.

If you are looking for a an Airbnb, apartement or vacation home in Faro, click here. 

Here is an overview of more amazing towns in the Algarve. 

How to visit the Ria Formosa

The Ria Formosa covers a vast area. It features countless beautiful places spread across the Algarve coast from Faro to Tavira.

The park is unlike some other national parks where you have a unique starting point and a well-defined scenic route.

This park’s beauty is somewhat hidden in several scattered spots along the coastline. Exploring the Ria Formosa will take multiple excursions and a combination of activities if you want to fully appreciate it.

Some people limit their visit to the visitor center and the interpretive trail but that only shows a small part of the park’s wonders.

We encourage you not to stop there and also visit the barrier islands and the other coastal regions.

It is possible to do this on your own but there are also numerous organized tours you can take. These tours make your visit less complex and have the added advantage that you will also learn about the ecosystem, allowing you to appreciate the beauty of the area even more.

Here are some exemplary tours.

Ria Formosa boat tours

Boat tours are amongst the most popular options to visit the Ria Formosa.

Most tours depart in Faro and Olhão but you will also find tours that start in Fuseta and Tavira.

The trips can range anywhere from a few hours to a full day. A typical journey will include cruising the Ria Formosa channels with stops at some of the islands.

Make sure to bring your swimsuits as there usually is time for a refreshing dip as well.

Book your tour around sunset to see the lagoon come alive with birds.

This tour starts in Faro and passes through the Ria Formosa channels. There is also a stop at the Farol and Deserta islands.

Guests loved this tour to 2 amazing islands. You will enjoy the great scenery, see wildlife and learn more about the Ria Formosa. Some guests say that the time they could spend on the islands was a bit short. But overall an unforgettable experience.

Check prices and availability: Ria Formosa catamaran tour

Ria Formosa bird watching tour in a solar boat

Birders should check out this eco-friendly tour. You will explore the Ria Formosa in a solar boat to see and learn more about the birds that nest in the area.

You will get a pair of binoculars.

Best travel binoculars.

Guests say that the solar boat is perfect to discover the Ria and that the guide has deep knowledge about the area and the nesting birds.

Highly recommended.

Check prices and availability: Eco-firendly bird watching tour

This segway tour takes place in the Ludo – Quinta do Lago area of the Ria Formosa.

It is a one-hour and a half tour that covers part of the Ludo and São Lourenço trail.

You also cruise along the streets of Quinta do Lago where you will be amazed by the superb villas, many of which are owned by international celebrities. On the way back you ride across a section of the Quinta do Lago boardwalk.

This Ria Formosa Algarve segway tour takes in many of the best hiking trails found in the Ria Formosa.

If you don’t like hiking, or if you’re here during the hot summer season, it’s a great way to enjoy the region without breaking a sweat.

We did this tour ourselves and had lots of fun. If you are looking for a different way of exploring the area, this is the tour for you.

Check prices and availability: Ria Formosa Segway tour

Ria Formosa birdwatching day tour

This birdwatching day tour brings you to different areas of the parque natural de Ria Formosa. You will be accompanied by an experienced guide.

This is a great tour for those that want to explore the Ria Formosa on foot accompanied by a guide.

Check prices and availability: Birdwatching day Ria Formosa

Where to stay for visiting the Ria Formosa

Here we share a list of the best places to stay when you plan on visiting the Ria Formosa.

Faro is the capital of the Algarve so it should come as no surprise that the city boasts a huge range of vacation homes as well as hotels in different price categories.

The advantage of staying in Faro is that many boat tours, as well as land tours, leave from the city.

Here is an overview of the best Airbnbs, vacation homes, and apartments in Faro.

Quinta do Lago

Quinta do Lago is an artificially created resort to attract a well-heeled clientele. Perfectly maintained wide boulevards replace the charming cobblestone streets.

The villas try to outdo each other in size and beauty and spread across the resort are numerous golf courses.

Quinta do Lago is centrally located in the Ria Formosa and boasts a number of 5-star hotels .

A stay in Quinta do Lago will certainly be different from a stay in one of the historic towns. However, you can be assured that you will not be lacking in luxury.

We already mentioned how much we like Tavira. The town has everything you could ever want to find in a quintessential Algarvian town without being overly touristy.

Tavira is located at the eastern edge of the Ria Formosa and counts several quaint cafes and restaurants. It prides itself on being the Venice of the Algarve.

In Tavira, you can rent apartments, townhouses, and beach villas. Some are large enough to accommodate a family outing.

There are also several hotels. We stayed in the Vila Galé Albacora , a former fishing camp that has been turned into a hotel. The hotel is located in between the salt pans. Some of the trails mentioned earlier leave from the parking of the hotel. The old town of Tavira is a stone’s throw away.

If you prefer staying in an Airbnb, apartment, or vacation house in Tavira, click here.

Didn’t find what you are looking for? Here we share an overview of the best vacation rentals in the Algarve.

If you traveling with your family, check out our list of family resorts in the Algarve or read our complete post on where to stay in the Algarve.

If you are traveling with your loved one, check out these amazing Algarve resorts for couples. 

FAQ you may have about Ria Formosa

Can you swim in ria formosa.

Most people prefer to swim in the ocean waters of the beaches on the barrier islands but it is also possible to swim in the waters of the Ria Formosa itself.

This water tends to be a tad warmer and also calmer.

A good family-friendly beach in the Ria Formosa is Praia da Fuseta Ria.

Where are the flamingos?

These majestic elegant birds can be seen in several spots in the Ria Formosa.

A number of them usually stay year-round but to increase your chances it is better to come during the autumn and winter months.

These are, according to us, the best spots to see flamingos:

• Ludo trail: Flamingos love the salt pans along the Ludo trail and they can usually be seen all year at this location
• Tavira, at the mouth of the Gilão river: Here also you can find several salt pans with flamingos at both sides of the river.

The Ria Formosa is an incredibly stunning region in the Algarve. It is home to a wide range of animals, on land, in the sea, and in the air.

One of the best aspects of this natural park is its accessibility.

Thanks to the boardwalks, well-maintained hiking paths, and organized boat tours everybody is able to enjoy the pristine beauty of this region.

If you are looking for more great places to visit in the Algarve, click here.

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Ria Formosa Tours

Sunset Tour

Come and experience the captivating beauty of Ria Formosa during our Sunset Tour. Enjoy a serene boat ride to witness the stunning sunset and the numerous captivating moments where the sky is painted with a variety of amazing hues in this natural paradise.

Ria Formosa and 2 Stops at Islands: Deserta & Farol

The duration of the tour is 3 hours in the Ria Formosa Natural Park, with stops on the islands. On the desert island there will be a 45 minutes stop. There you can swim and we can provide diving masks for free. On Farol Island the stop will also be 45 minutes where you can visit the lighthouse and take pictures.

Ria Formosa and 4 stops at islands: Deserta + Farol + Culatra + Hangares

Enjoy the most beautiful waters of the Algarve. This is a tour in a comfortable catamaran with 4 stops in the islands: Deserta, Farol, Culatra and Hangares Island.

Dolphin Watching

Dolphin Watching is one of the most beautiful experiences in the Ria Formosa. Start your day with a 2:30 hour adventure where you can enjoy the beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and navigate its coastline in search of Dolphins ...

Dolphin Watching and 2 more stops at Deserta and Farol islands

Come and start your day on a fabulous  adventure where you can navigate in the Ria Formosa waters, pass between Deserta Island and  Farol Island, cross the “ Barra “ Cape  de Santa Maria and enjoy the beauty of the union of the waters. Afther we go visit and stop in 4 islands , 4 diferent places.

Private tour, Friends and family. Booking of 4 hours

You will have a four-hour private boat ride to discover the beauty of the Ria Formosa Natural Park, where you will find the Deserta and Farol Islands. (2 Stops: Deserta Islands and Farol islands)

Reserve Now

boat trips and tours ria formosa

Discover the beauty of the ria formosa natural park on one of the boat trips we offer from faro in the algarve in portugal.

half day ria formosa

• 1 - 11 pax per boat
• A relaxing and guided boat tour through the channels of the Ria Formosa with a visit to Deserta island and Farol island.

sunset islands tour

• 1 - 11 persons per boat
• Embark on a tour with the charm and beauty of the canals of the Ria Formosa. visit two islands and come back to faro with the sunset

dolphin watching tour

• 1 - 12 pax per boat
• The ideal tour for marine life lovers in the middle of nature to look for and observe dolphins and other marine species.

private boat tour faro

• Perfect for family, group of friends, team building, birthday, bachelor’s party, and other celebrations. Tailor-made solutions!

birdwatching tour

• Ideal tour for nature lovers and observe some birdlife and species in the Ria Formosanatural park from faro.

romantic sunset tour

• only 2 pax per boat
• a unique and exclusive moment for 2! The sun, the sound of the birds, the channels of the Ria & sparkling wine!

marriage proposal

• Don't waste any more time. The time has come! Bring the rings, and we'll take care of the rest! The script is a surprise!

full day ria formosa

• Embark on a tour through the canals of the Ria Formosa Natural Park and the Deserta, Farol and Culatra Islands.

To the Algarve, Faro and Ria Formosa

THE RIA FORMOSA It is a fantastic triangle-shaped lagoon system, consisting of marshland and an impressive number of channels reminiscent of a tidal-dependent labyrinth and protected from the Atlantic Ocean by a string of dunes made up of 2 peninsulas (Cacela and Ancão) and 5 barrier islands (Deserta, Culatra, Armona, Tavira and Cabanas). Ria Formosa is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places in the Algarve , and the Algarve is, par excellence, the best beach destination in Portugal, and Ria Formosa its pearl. Faro and its Ria is a place that must be visited at least once in a lifetime.

Faro and its Ria are places that should be visited at least once in a lifetime.

When it’s your turn, be sure to do it with Islands 4 You .

Why Islands 4 You?

Fleet and equipment.

We have a modern fleet and state-of-the-art equipment

PROFESSIONAL SAILORS

Our guides are trained and experienced local professionals

BEST QUALITY/PRICE RATIO

The best prices on the market, taking into account the value delivered

YOUR EXPERIENCE STARTS HERE

Check out the most popular programs and embark on an unforgettable passion for saltwater that will exceed all your expectations!

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Top Things to Do in Elektrostal, Russia - Elektrostal Must-See Attractions

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