Step aboard Ollem Turismo Fluvial’s Rota dos Avieiros for a unique immersion into Portugal’s Avieiro fishing culture and the untouched landscapes along the Tejo River. Visit historic villages and serene river islands in a tour that blends history, nature, and tradition.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3–4 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mainly gentle walking and boat rides with minimal exertion.
Wildlife
History
The Avieiro fishermen have inhabited this section of the Tejo River for centuries, sustaining a distinctive river-based culture centered on traditional fishing techniques and mudbrick settlements.
Conservation
Ollem Turismo Fluvial actively supports sustainable tourism by promoting cultural preservation and minimizing impact on sensitive river ecosystems and bird habitats.
Ollem Turismo Fluvial
Step aboard Ollem Turismo Fluvial’s Rota dos Avieiros for a unique immersion into Portugal’s Avieiro fishing culture and the untouched landscapes along the Tejo River. Visit historic villages and serene river islands in a tour that blends history, nature, and tradition.
Ollem Turismo Fluvial is a river tour operator based in Valada, Santarém, offering boat experiences on the Tejo River. The company operates private events aboard an exclusive boat, accommodating celebrations, lunches and corporate gatherings with personalized packages and an attentive crew. Birdwatching cruises depart from Valada do Ribatejo and showcase the Ilha das Graças and the “Barreira das Andorinhas,” providing opportunities to observe local birdlife along calm river stretches.
The House Boat 'Barco casa Ollem' offers overnight stays for up to five guests with a fully equipped kitchen, cozy accommodations and a peaceful upper deck; the vessel is described as eco-friendly and suitable for tranquil getaways. The Rota dos Avieiros experience focuses on local avieiro culture, visiting the restored village of Escaroupim and the historic Palhota linked to Alves Redol, while navigating scenic river landscapes including the Islands of Horses and Herons and rich riverbank vegetation. Ollem Turismo Fluvial emphasizes safety, comfort and a seamless guest experience by providing knowledgeable crew and tailored trip options. Services suit small groups, families and birdwatching enthusiasts seeking nature-focused outings on the Tejo. Reservations and packages are arranged per trip type, allowing flexibility for private events, guided cultural routes, nature observation outings and overnight stays aboard the houseboat. Each trip highlights the Tejo River's natural and cultural heritage, combining on-board experiences with visits ashore where applicable. Trip options include private charters and guided outings tailored to interests such as birdwatching or local history, with packages adjusted to group size and occasion and seasonal highlights.
Location
Valada, Santarém
On the Tejo River
Tours Offered
4
Eventos, Birdwatching, Houseboat, Rota
Houseboat Capacity
Up to 5 guests
Fully equipped kitchen and deck
Cultural Route
Rota dos Avieiros
Includes Escaroupim and Palhota
Reserve Eventos a bordo, Birdwatching, Dormir a Bordo or the Rota dos Avieiros from Valada, Santarém — flexible packages and overnight houseboat stays available.
Bring insect repellent
The wetlands along the Tejo River can have mosquitoes, especially in warmer months.
Wear layered clothing
River mornings can be cool while afternoons warm considerably; layers help adapt to changing temperatures.
Camera ready for wildlife
Keep your camera handy to capture herons and wild horses found on the river islands.
Respect local customs
The Avieiro culture is a living tradition; engage respectfully with communities and historic sites.
Light waterproof jacket
Protects against sudden rain showers common in spring along the river.
spring
Sun hat and sunscreen
Vital for sun protection during exposed river passages under strong sunlight.
summer
Comfortable walking shoes
Provides support for walking on uneven village paths and shorelines.
Binoculars
Enhances wildlife viewing, especially for spotting birds and wild horses from a distance.