The Best Tours in the Algarve

From boat trips into the Benagil cave to jeep safaris in the hills, kayaking in the grottos and day trips to Seville, the Algarve has a huge choice of tours. Here are the best tours and excursions in the Algarve, and which ones are worth booking.

Quick answer: the essential Algarve tour is a boat trip to the Benagil cave and the sea caves along the coast (by boat or kayak). Also popular: dolphin watching from Lagos or Vilamoura, a Ria Formosa boat trip from Faro or Olhão, a jeep safari, a wine tasting, and a day trip to Seville.

The best Algarve tours

Benagil cave and the sea caves

Boat trips leave from Portimão, Armacão de Pêra, Albufeira and Carvoeiro. Landing on the cave beach is not allowed, but boats and kayaks still visit the caves. See Benagil boat tours and kayak tours. See the best Algarve boat trips.

Ponta da Piedade by boat or kayak

Small boats and kayaks weave through the grottos and rock arches near Lagos. See boat trips and kayak tours.

Dolphin watching

Common and bottlenose dolphins are seen on most trips. See dolphin trips from Lagos.

Catamaran cruises

Relaxed coastal cruises with swimming stops. See catamaran trips.

Ria Formosa

Boat trips through the lagoons and out to the islands, with flamingos and birdlife. See Ria Formosa tours.

Jeep safari

Off-road tracks through the hills to villages, viewpoints and traditional producers. See jeep safaris.

Wine and food

The Algarve’s wine estates are growing fast, and Lagos has good food tours. See Algarve wine tastings and the Lagos food tour.

Day trip to Seville

Spain’s most beautiful city is an easy day trip from the eastern Algarve. See Seville day trips. See the best day trips from the Algarve.

Tips

• Book early in summer: the best boat slots sell out.
• Sea conditions: cave trips are cancelled in rough seas; book early in your stay.
• Morning trips have calmer seas and softer light.

More: where to stay in the Algarve and the 7-day Algarve itinerary.

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