12 Cool Things to do in the Algarve
So you’ve seen the caves and the wild dolphins, been to the water parks and explored the markets. Now what? How about herding some goats? or experience a hot air balloon flight over Lagos? Here are a few activities we found in the Algarve that will make your holiday unforgettable.
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1. Gyrocopter Flight
Featured in Forbes as one of the best adventures of 2019, the Gyroscope Flight in Monte Gordo is an amazing adventure. The aircraft is similar to a helicopter but lightweight, quiet and efficient. The tour takes off from the Ria Formosa Natural Reserve and flies over some of the Algarve’s most beautiful beaches and villages.
The aircraft accommodates only one passenger and is wheelchair accessible. This experience has a 5-star rating on Viator, check out the reviews here.
2. Astrophotography and Light Painting Night Photo session
Everything about this experience is original. Get picked-up in a vintage VW van in Vilamoura or Albufeira, from there to the Salgados beach where you will experience a unique night time photo session. Your photographer will use some very cool techniques to provide you with amazing photography. Enjoy a glass of Portuguese wine and some snacks during this 2 hour experience.
3. Algarvian Goat Herding
This experience is available in Vila Nova de Cacela (near the town of Monte Gordo). During 4 hours your group (maximum 8 people) will accompany the goatherder and assist in his daily routine. Basically a 4-hour private walking tour where you will be accompanied by goats
You can book this experience on Viator, group rate for the 4 hours is €410.26 includes hotel pick-up.
4. Loulé Salt Mine Tour
If you’re not claustrophobic and into geology and mining this might just be the tour for you. This mine is located in Loulé practically inside the town. The guided tour consists of descending 230 meters and learning about the historical importance of the site, engineering and geology.
Tours are available Monday to Friday – morning or afternoon starting at 9:30am. Tickets cost €25 per person.
5. Algarve 'Dead Sea' Experience
This jeep tour takes place in Olhão’s Ria Formosa Natural Park. Discover the wildlife and salt ponds of Olhão during this 3-hour trip. You will learn about the salt production, have an opportunity for a float in the ponds and also purchase artisanal salt products.
Meeting point for this tour is in Faro and tickets starts at €35.90 per person. Read reviews here.
6. Portimão Hovercraft Experience
The Hovertrack Portugal near Portimão offers this unique experience for groups or individuals. Learn to operate a hovercraft over wet and dry tracks with different levels of difficulty.
Online bookings not available email your enquiries to [email protected].
7. Dive the Ocean Revival Park
The Ocean Revival Park is a diving site just off the coast of Portimão. Four decommissioned ships from the Portuguese Navy have been sunk to create an artificial reef. This non-profit organisation has created a unique project. Even if you are not a diver the Ocean Revival website is really worth a read.
This activity is for experienced divers, rates start at €110 per person on Viator.
8. Hot Air Balloon Flight
How about a hot air balloon flight from Lagos? This amazing experience is available all year round (weather permitting) for adrenalin seekers older than 7. Book either a private flight or join a group. The whole experience takes about 4 hours and the actual flight time is 1 hour.
9. Private Photo Session with a Photographer
Have your family holiday or honeymoon pictures taken by a professional photographer in the Algarve. Book a photo shoot at any of the beautiful locations and settings. Various options available prices per group start at €112.50.
10. Magic Mountain Retreat
Enjoy a full-day relaxing experience in the mountains. Get in touch with nature and yourself in the western Algarve hills.
Experience price is €96.68 per person and includes hotel pick-up, a guided meditation session, silent hike, cacao ceremony and lunch and snacks throughout the day.
11. Rock Climbing Lesson Beginners
A full-day experience for beginners (must be 18+ years old) to try out rock climbing in the Algarve. Your guides have all the necessary qualifications and a full safety briefing will be given before you take your first step.
Rates start at €65 per person and groups will have a maximum of 5 participants.
12. Guided Donkey Tour and Picnic
This adventure is available in Paderne and a great activity for kids and adults alike. The tour is suitable for all ages and you have the choice of riding or walking the donkey. The donkeys can carry up to 100kg so small children can ride with their parents.
Rates start at €69 per adult and €49 per child, picnic and olive oil tasting is included. Hotel pick-up in not included in this rate.
Should you require transportation check out these links:
Guided Donkey Tour with Transport from Vilamoura
Donkey Farm Tour in Paderne with hotel pick-up in Vilamoura
More to See and Do
For more ideas for your holiday or weekend check out these categories.
- Boat trips from Vilamoura
- Water sports at the Falésia Beach or from the Marina
- Water parks and zoos in the Algarve
- Day trips to Lisbon, Gibraltar, Fátima, Seville and more
- Jeep Safaris in the Algarve
- General events happening now in Vilamoura or nearby
