Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park Full Day Private Tour from the West

Nazaré , Portugal

Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park Full Day Private Tour from the West

Active

8h - 9h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

On this tour, you'll visit Serras de Aire e Candeeiros Natural Park, a protected park since 1979 that stands in the most important repository of limestone formation in the country. Here you have the chance to visit a variety of geological formations associated with karst topography such as salt pans, caves, poljes, ponors and sinkholes, among others.

Besides that, Tugabuddies is a sightseeing tour agency that has been creating and delivering customized tours through the Center and West of Portugal (and a few other stunning places) since April 2016.

We focus on carefully preparing each experience to meet all customer’s expectations and tastes. Our team’s work is based on the passion we all share for our home country, Portugal, but also on knowledge, experience and a great will to serve with care and quality.

We won’t just be your tour guide; we will be Your Portuguese Best Friend!

Available options

Aire e Candeeiros Nature Park Full Day Private Tour from the West

Pickup included

What's included

Private transportation

Pick up and drop off in your accomodation

WiFi on board

Knowledgeable guide

Mira D'Aire Caves entrance

Bottled water

Air-conditioned vehicle

Detailed itinerary

The Rio Maior Salt Pans are a natural phenomenon, far away from the sea, still working nowadays and for at least 900 years.
The water from this spring is seven times more salty than sea water, and some say that these salt pans were already explored by Romans and Moors.

In this old quarry you will find dinosaur footprints belonging to the Middle Jurassic Period, with about 170 million years age. The owners of such footprints were recognized as theropod dinosaurs (2 feet ) and sauropods (4 feet ).

Discovered in 1985, the Algar do Pena cave is a 35 meters deep pothole with a huge chamber at the bottom. This is the biggest natural chamber of Portugal and where you can find numerous speleothems.

Elected one of the 7 wonders of Portugal, these caves were discovered in 1947. The entrance is 300 metres above the sea level, but inside they reach 180 meters in depth. Their formation goes back 150 million years to the Middle Jurassic age, when the dinosaurs populated this region.

The Polje of Minde or "Sea of Minde", as it is commonly known, is a large karstic depression located between the villages of Mira d'Aire and Minde, which becomes frequently flooded during the rainiest winters. The lake created by the flood gives this place an impressive landscape with a unique fauna

The Fórnea is a pronounced amphitheatre-shaped retreat from a low zone into a limestone plateau. Apart from the scientific explanation, the locals call it, to this day, Fôrnea because of its shape which resembles an oven.

Here we will go for a hike to Cova Velha springs, passing by the Fórnea's brook and its cascade.

A swing with a magnificent view over the surrounding areas of the Natural Park.

What's not included

Lunch

Gratuities

Available languages

Guide guide

PT EN FR ES

Important information

Service animals allowed

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness

Important notes

Este ingresso oferece entrada direta

About Nazaré

Nazaré is a picturesque coastal town in Portugal, renowned for its stunning beaches, dramatic cliffs, and the world's largest surfable waves. It's a unique blend of traditional charm and modern adventure, attracting surfers, families, and culture seekers alike.

Top Attractions

Praia da Nazaré

The main beach of Nazaré is a long, sandy stretch perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant beach atmosphere.

Beach Half day to full day Free

Sítio de Nazaré

A charming hilltop village with stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the town below. Accessible by funicular or a scenic walk.

Historical 1-2 hours Free (Funicular ride costs around €3)

Nazaré Sanctuary

A historic church dedicated to Our Lady of Nazaré, offering beautiful views and a glimpse into the town's religious heritage.

Religious 1 hour Free

Nazaré Promenade

A picturesque promenade along the beach, perfect for a leisurely stroll, people-watching, and enjoying the ocean views.

Scenic 1-2 hours Free

Must-Try Local Dishes

Bacalhau à Brás

A traditional Portuguese dish made with shredded codfish, onions, eggs, and thinly sliced fried potatoes.

Main Dish Contains fish and eggs

Arroz de Marisco

A flavorful seafood rice dish cooked with a variety of shellfish and spices.

Main Dish Contains shellfish and seafood

Sardinhas Assadas

Grilled sardines, a local favorite, often served with boiled potatoes and salad.

Main Dish Contains fish

Pastel de Nata

A famous Portuguese custard tart with a flaky pastry crust and creamy filling.

Dessert Contains dairy and eggs

Popular Activities

Surfing Hiking Paragliding Sunbathing Spa treatments Beach walks Visiting historical sites Local markets

Best Time to Visit

June to August

The summer months offer warm weather, sunny days, and lively beach activities. It's the perfect time for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the vibrant atmosphere.

20°C to 28°C 68°F to 82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Portuguese
Widely spoken: English, Spanish, French
English: Moderately spoken

Currency

Euro (EUR)

Time Zone

GMT+0 (Western European Time)

Electricity

230VV, 50HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

Nazaré is generally safe for tourists, with low crime rates. However, as with any tourist destination, it's important to be aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use licensed taxis or rideshare services
• Be cautious with ATMs and avoid using them at night

Getting there

By air

Lisbon Portela Airport • 120 km

By train

Nazaré Station

By bus

Nazaré Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The local bus service is efficient and covers most of the town and nearby areas.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Bolt, FreeNow

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Praia Sítio Pederneira

Day trips

Alcobaça

30 km • Half day

A charming town known for its UNESCO-listed monastery and beautiful architecture.

Fátima

40 km • Full day

A significant pilgrimage site with a famous sanctuary dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

Óbidos

50 km • Full day

A picturesque medieval town with a well-preserved castle and charming streets.

Festivals

Nazaré Winter Festival • January Feast of Our Lady of Nazaré • September 8th Nazaré Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit the Sítio de Nazaré viewpoint for stunning panoramic views of the town and coastline.
Try the local seafood, especially the grilled prawns and clams, which are a specialty of the region.
Take the funicular up to Sítio de Nazaré for a unique and scenic experience.
Explore the local markets, such as the Mercado da Praia, for fresh produce, seafood, and traditional crafts.
Visit during the Nazaré Winter Festival to witness the world's largest surfable waves and enjoy various cultural activities.