Discover the vibrant wetlands of the Tejo estuary and spot majestic flamingos on this captivating 3-hour birdwatching adventure. Perfect for nature lovers eager to see Portugal’s iconic bird species in their natural habitat.
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels, with walking primarily on flat terrain
Wildlife
History
This area has been designated as a protected wetland since 1998, playing a crucial role in Portugal’s conservation efforts.
Conservation
The wetlands are managed to promote habitat health and support migratory bird populations, emphasizing sustainable tourism.
Companhia das Lezírias
Discover the vibrant wetlands of the Tejo estuary and spot majestic flamingos on this captivating 3-hour birdwatching adventure. Perfect for nature lovers eager to see Portugal’s iconic bird species in their natural habitat.
Companhia das Lezírias is a nature-focused operator based in Vila Franca de Xira, Lisbon, offering a range of guided and self-guided experiences that highlight the Tejo estuary and EVOA lagoons.
The organization runs year-round birdwatching activities, including short private visits (1.5 hours), three-hour private tours, guided searches for flamingos, and longer itineraries such as the eight-hour Grand Tour Aves, Vinho e Cortiça. Guided access frequently uses electric vehicles for comfortable, low-impact travel across lagoon and observatory areas. Self-guided visitors can use dedicated infrastructure at EVOA: four observatories, three photography hides, and multiple viewpoints for independent exploration.
Tours such as “Tour na Lezíria: Dos Arrozais ao Estuário” highlight seasonal landscape changes, rice-field ecology, and local horseback work by cowboys. The Grand Tour includes estuary viewing, a crossing of the Vasco da Gama Bridge, wine tasting at Catapereiro, and EVOA lagoon visits. The on-site Entrada Exposição is an immersive exhibit composed of 20 interactive modules that present the Tejo estuary’s habitats, migratory patterns, and conservation challenges through visuals and authentic sounds.
Selected tours offer practical transport from Vila Franca de Xira or Braço de Prata. Guided tours include personalized guidance in electric vehicles and on-foot options, ensuring comfortable access to habitats, seasonal bird migrations, and photographic opportunities across varied Lezíria landscapes. Booking and schedules are available through official channels and partners.
Tours Offered
9
Guided and self-guided experiences
Observatories
4
Year-round birdwatching viewpoints
Photo Hides
3
Dedicated wildlife photography hides
Exhibit Modules
20
Interactive Tejo estuary displays
Book a private birdwatching tour, join a full-day Grand Tour, or explore EVOA independently — discover flamingos, lagoons, and the living landscape of Companhia das Lezírias.
Bring binoculars
Ensure you have binoculars or a camera with zoom for optimal bird visibility.
Wear weather-appropriate clothing
Dress in layers to stay comfortable while on the open wetlands.
Arrive early
Arrive a little before the scheduled start to maximize the birdwatching opportunities.
Respect wildlife
Keep a respectful distance from the birds and do not disturb their habitat.
Binoculars
Vital for spotting distant birds and getting detailed views of wildlife.
Sun protection
Hats, sunscreen, and sunglasses help protect against sun exposure during the open wetlands.
spring;summer;fall
Water bottle
Stay hydrated while exploring the habitat.
Camera
Capture incredible moments of wildlife and scenery.