Nature and Wildlife

It’s not only underwater that Portuguese Nature and Wildlife can surprise visitors. Birdwatch, Nature Trails, visiting Natural Parks, among others, are must activities in the mainland, as well in Azores or Madeira. Flamingos and other species can be seen in the Tagus River Estuary; the wonders of the Alentejo coast, with its endless dunes and steep fossil cliffs; the deer community in the Tapada de Mafra Protected Reserve; wolves in Gerês National Park; reptiles and fauna endemic on Arrábida Mountain Range, right next to the majestic landscapes, fossil coastline and dinosaur footprints of Espichel Cape, just to name a few. Although not considered wildlife, bulls and horses are part of Portuguese history. Bulls are raised for bullfights in big farms, where they are free to move around for some years, until they are ready. Bullfights happen mainly in the summer, but you can watch the bulls in the countryside all year round. The Lusitano Horse is internationally recognized and one of Portugal’s jewels. These beautiful animals, with high intelligence and physical skills, are raised mainly in Ribatejo, central Portugal. In Golegã, every year in the two weeks surrounding the 11th of November, you can ride Lusitano and other horses at the International Horse Fair. Besides this event, horseback riding is possible throughout the country, including most islands, all year round. So, if you love Nature and Wildlife take you camera and visit these Portuguese wonders.

More about Nature and Wildlife soon…