Birding Adventure in Castro Verde - A Rocha Life
Difficulty
Duration
Fitness Level
Overview
Join a 12-hour birding adventure in Portugal's Alentejo region and discover the area's unique avian species with expert guides. Perfect for nature lovers seeking an authentic birdwatching experience.
Castro Verde
155 € per Person | All ages | Friday | 14h | 3km | Easy | Great birding & dinner included!
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Adventure Photos
About This Adventure
Embark on a thrilling 12-hour birding adventure in the stunning Alentejo region, where diverse landscapes reveal unique bird species. Enjoy expert guidance, frequent stops for sightings, and a chance to see majestic birds like Rollers and Bustards. Conclude your day with delicious local cuisine in Castro Verde.
Great birding and snack included!
Rates
Adults: 155 € Children: 155 € Private groups - minimum 4 people
Duration
12 hours
About
This tour starts very early as we have a long drive (1h30) to reach Castro Verde in the Alentejo. This region has a completely different landscape from the Algarve, also meaning different bird species. We usually see the first birds of the day on the way: Storks on nests, Buzzard, Cattle Egret. We drive on an old road leading to Vale Gonçalinho, a property owned by the LPN (Liga para a Proteção da Natureza), so we can stop wherever and whenever we want to look for birds.
Vale Gonçalinho is a good place to see Rollers and Lesser Kestrels in spring as buildings have been arranged for these species to breed. Calandra Larks are abundant in winter and Black-bellied Sandgrouse is a regular sighting. The morning is spent in this property.
In the afternoon, we drive between various localities on small roads, allowing us to stop regularly. We have more opportunities to see Bustards, Sandgrouse and Harriers in the fields around. We go to a vantage point from where we have an excellent overview of the surrounding landscape. From there, we can see Cranes in winter and it is a good place to see big birds of prey.
We finish the day enjoying nice food in Castro Verde before traveling back home.
What is included
The guide, a checklist, the use of field guides, a drink at the end or middle of the day and all the driving are included in the price. Includes a snack in Castro Verde.
Adventure Tips
Bring binoculars
A good pair of binoculars is essential for spotting distant birds and getting a closer look at plumage details.
Wear layered clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable in the varied outdoor conditions throughout the day.
Use sun protection
Bring sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself during long hours in the open.
Stay quiet and patient
Birding rewards silence and patience; avoid loud noises to not scare away wildlife.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Golden Eagles
- Great Bustards
History
Castro Verde has been a vital bird migration stop for centuries, with local traditions rooted in farming and conservation.
Conservation
Local efforts focus on habitat preservation to maintain the region's rich bird diversity, supporting sustainable tourism.
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Adventure Hotspots in Beja
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Binoculars
Essential for observing distant birds in detail.
Field guide to Portuguese birds
Helps identify species and learn more about their behaviors.
Sun hat
Provides sun protection during midday hours.
summer specific
Water bottle
Stay hydrated during long hours in the outdoors.