Abicada and Alvor Dunes Birdwatching Tour
Embark on an enchanting 8-hour birdwatching tour at Abicada and Alvor Dunes in Portugal.
Embarking on a captivating birdwatching journey, the Abicada and Alvor Dunes experience offers an enthralling full-day adventure for nature enthusiasts. This tour spans a duration of 8 hours, inviting participants to delve into the natural splendors of diverse habitats and observe a plethora of bird species.
Rates and Group Details
This exquisite experience is priced at 60€ for adults and children alike, with the provision for private groups comprising a minimum of four individuals.
Morning Exploration at a Tidal Lagoon
The day commences by a serene tidal lagoon, where a variety of waders are spotted gracing the mudflats. The sightings include Oystercatchers, Whimbrels, Ringed and Grey Plovers, Dunlins, Redshanks, Bar-tailed Godwits, and Turnstones. Trekking along dykes bordering the lagoon and a marsh, attendees get an opportunity to see Coots, occasionally accompanied by Flamingos and Spoonbills. The marsh area, depending on water levels, hosts varying bird populations, with Black-winged Stilts often being a common sight.
Journey Through Farmlands and Historical Ruins
The path then meanders through farmlands dotted with characteristic Carob, Fig, and Almond trees. This area is particularly known for sightings of Woodchat Shrikes and Red-legged Partridges. A significant highlight is the visit to the roman ruins of Abicada, albeit largely reclaimed by vegetation. The ruins offer panoramic views of a small marsh, frequented by Marsh Harrier, Spoonbills, and Black-winged Stilts. Springtime visitors might spot the Little Ringed Plover, Ruff, Purple Heron, and Avocet.
Afternoon Adventure at Alvor Dunes
Post-lunch, the adventure continues at Alvor dunes, navigated via a boardwalk. This area is rich in passerines like Crested Lark, Zitting Cisticola, Sardinian Warbler, Goldfinch, and Greenfinch. At low tide, the Ria de Alvor estuary reveals mudflats bustling with waders. Spring brings breeding species to the dunes, including Short-toed Larks, Kentish Plovers, and Little Terns, offering a chance to witness their familial interactions and displays.
Concluding the Day
The journey back includes a beach walk with an optional swim. The final leg involves strolling along the Ria de Alvor marsh, a potential spot for additional wader sightings or discovering Bluethroats in winter. The day concludes near the sea with a refreshing drink or ice cream.
The package encompasses the expertise of a guide, a comprehensive checklist, access to field guides, a drink, and all transportation within the tour. This ensures a well-rounded, immersive experience for every participant, making it an ideal choice for birdwatchers and nature lovers.