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Algar Seco

Algar Seco: Our most recommended tours and activities

Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

1. Portimão: Pirate Ship Cave Cruise

Feel like a pirate sailing the Atlantic on this unique cruise from Portimão that combines adventure and relaxation. Visit famous sites like the lighthouse of Alfanzina and the Benagil Cave. Swim in crystalline water, and walk the plank like a real pirate.  After boarding, begin by receiving a full briefing on your safety and comfort for your cruise. From there, hit the open water and navigate the coast off of Rio Arade, the village of Ferragudo, medieval castles, and the Atlantic Ocean. Cruising east, pass Carvoeiro, which contains the famous rock formation of Algar Seco. Arriving to the lighthouse of Alfanzina, transfer to a small boat to visit the inside of the local caves which run from the lighthouse to Marinha Beach. These caves include the famous cathedral cave of Benagil. Returning to the boat, take a dip to swim in the enticing crystal clear water which surrounds you. On your return journey, be on the lookout for dolphins, which are regularly spotted in this area.

From Carvoeiro: Benagil Caves and Praia da Marinha Boat Trip

2. From Carvoeiro: Benagil Caves and Praia da Marinha Boat Trip

Explore the stunning Benagil Caves on this boat tour from Carvoeiro. Cruise into the Algar de Benagil cave and breeze by the Arches of Praia da Marinha. Go for a dip in the sea at a scenic location, when conditions are safe.  Check-in at the activity provider's ticket booth on Carvoeiro beach. Put on a life jacket and follow your guide to the boat. Hop aboard the small but comfortable boat and set off along the coast. Pass by towering cliffs, hidden coves, and long stretches of beach with golden sand. Take in views of the Algar Seco cave and the white sand beaches of Vale Covo and Praia do Carvalho. Capture pictures as you glide by the 63-meter tall Farol de Alfanzina lighthouse. See a cave which got its name from a sunken steamboat.  Enter the famed Algar de Benagil cave and have time to snap some more pictures before skirting by breathtaking caves and rock formations on your way towards the unique landscape of the Arches of Praia da Marinha which is considered one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Cool off on a swim stop, when sea and weather conditions are right at a safe location outside caves in turquoise waters. Return to your meeting point at the end of your tour. 

Portimão: Half-Day Catamaran Cruise to Benagil & Carvoeiro

3. Portimão: Half-Day Catamaran Cruise to Benagil & Carvoeiro

Discover the wonders along the coast of Portimão on a half-day catamaran cruise. You will explore the beaches of Praia de Benagil, and Praia da Rocha, rock formations along the coast, and more. Dive into the water for swimming or snorkeling before returning to the shore. Depart from the marina in Portimão and sail towards the beautiful caves of Algar de Benagil. Take in the dramatic views of various beaches like Praia da Rocha, Farol de Alfazina, Praia de Carvoeiro, Praia de Benagil, and Praia da Marinha. You will also admire the rock formations dotted along the coast before arriving at the bay of João de Arens. Drop the anchor to relax and keep an eye out for the friendly dolphins who inhabit the region. Soak up the sunshine on deck or take a refreshing swim in the turquoise water. You can also try some water activities, such as paddle boarding to get a glimpse of the world beneath the waves as you snorkel. Finally, marvel at the scenic panoramic views of the area while heading back to the shore. 

Portimão: Benagil Caves & Coastline by Luxury Eco Catamaran

4. Portimão: Benagil Caves & Coastline by Luxury Eco Catamaran

Enjoy nature, with zero emissions, in a quiet and relaxing environment, without polluting the ocean. This luxurious and comfortable catamaran is the best choice if you want to visit the Benagil Caves with all the comfort and unique amenities such as an on-board Bar, WC, Lounge Seatings and Deck, swim stop, and music aboard that will defintely make your experience even more fun and special. All this, with the big extra of being a sustainable tourist, leaving no pollution on the ocean waters and atmosphere. Depart from Portimão Marina and sail for 3 hours along the costline, until Praia da Marinha. Pass by Carvoeiro and Benagil and enter the famous and surprising Benagil and Smugglers Caves along the way, with an unforgettable and relaxing scenery. On the way, you will see an unique perspective of Algarve’s Coastline, wonderful picturesque beaches, amazing rock formations, breathtaking caves and, of course, the world famous Benagil Cave. If the weather is hot, stop to cool off with a dip. Don't forget your towel and bathing suit. If it’s cold or any passenger wants to stop, take the chance to sail further and experience more amazing views. Gain access to all information about points of interest with the provider's Sun Boat app. Don’t forget your camera to take beautiful pictures at the coastal scenery along the way.

From Portimão: Benagil Boat Tour with Local Guide

5. From Portimão: Benagil Boat Tour with Local Guide

Departing from Marina de Portimão, your guide will take you on this 2-hour cruise to the world-famous Jurassic caves and rock formations of the Algar de Benagil and Carvoeiro. On the way, take in views of the amazing beach of Praia da Rocha, followed by the Ponta do Altar Lighthouse, Carvoeiro village, Algar Seco, and the Alfazina Lighthouse. Cruise along before arriving at the journey's highlight, the Algar de Benagil. Stop here for some time to take photos and admire the hidden beach of this magical and ancient cave. Head then towards Praia da Marinha, one of the most beautiful beaches in Europe. Relax while sailing along the coast on the way back to the marina in Portimão. Prepare to be amazed as you pass magnificent scenery and all your favorite spots on the way there.

From Olhão: Seven Hanging Valleys Guided Walking Trip

6. From Olhão: Seven Hanging Valleys Guided Walking Trip

Dive deep into the breathtaking Seven Hanging Valleys hiking trail. Make the most of your time in the Algarve region with this convenient guided tour with a transfer from Olhao. Come across stunning cliffs and caves, admire panoramic ocean views, and taste local products. Get picked up from a meeting point in Olhao and drive over to the caves of Algar Seco. Gaze at the striking series of rocks and steep caves, then begin your walking adventure. Allow your guide to point out the highlights of the trail, including majestic cliffs, caves, and beaches. Admire the renowned Benagil Cave along the way, and stay on the lookout for seabirds and dolphins. Finish your journey at the vibrant Praia da Marinha. Unwind as you taste delicious Portuguese specialties, then enjoy a ride back to Olhao.

Algarve: Benagil Cave Boat Tour and Algarseco Coastal Walk

7. Algarve: Benagil Cave Boat Tour and Algarseco Coastal Walk

The adventure begins with pickup from your accommodation in Lagos, Praia da Luz, or Meia Praia and heads to Carvoeiro Beach. Hop onboard a traditional style boat and set sail along the coastline towards Benagil Cave. Soak up the wonders of this fascinating location and snap photos for your holiday album. Next, visit the picturesque Marinha Beach as well as other scenic cliffs and caves. Back on dry land, enjoy a leisurely stroll along the Algarseco boardwalk, which boasts stunning views across the coastline. Along the way, admire the natural pools that form in the holes of the cliffs and fill with water during high tide. At the end of the boardwalk, visit a grotto famous for its two arches which act as a window to the sea.

From Portimao: Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour

8. From Portimao: Benagil Cave and Marinha Beach Boat Tour

Discover the beautiful coastline of the Algarve on a boat cruise from Portimao. Admire the views of rock formations as well as the beaches of Marinha, La Rocha, and Carvalho, with a stop for swimming during the tour. Start the tour from Clube Naval de Portimao located by the Arade River. Pass by the quaint fishing village of Ferragudo, St John´s Fortress situated by the river, the Marina of Portimao, and La Rocha Beach. Next, sail by the various rock formations, hidden beaches, and mysterious caves that dot the coastline between the city of Portimao and beautiful Praia da Marinha. Admire the sights of Carvalho Beach, Canairos Beach, Paradise Beach, and Carvoeiro village. Spot the rock formations of Algar Seco such as the Cathedral Cave, Cave of the Smugglers, Monster Cave, Cave of the Heart, Turtle Cave, and many more. Arrive at the famous Benagil Cave which you can snap photos from different perspectives from the boat. Afterwards head to Praia da Marinha (Navy Beach) and make a stop for swimming in the bay. Afterwards, speed along the coastline back to Portimao.

Algarve: Landscapes, Pottery, and Winery Tour

9. Algarve: Landscapes, Pottery, and Winery Tour

Much of the Algarve’s charm resides in its ability to provide top class tourist facilities and yet retain its own identity, easily visible in the traditional villages and activities of the area. Porches is renowned for its beautiful and original pottery. The Porches Pottery workshop is one of the best representatives of this art and many of the traditional methods of production are still used here today. You can see the pottery being made and painted by hand by the artisans. The fishing village of Benagil is perched above the Atlantic and a tiny but picturesque beach, the sound of the Atlantic the uninterrupted sound track to the village’s activities. Heading towards the resort of Carvoeiro we visit Algar Seco where you can see the amazing caves and grottoes carved from the coastline over the centuries. Enjoy a stroll through the village of Ferragudo, along the cobbled streets and down to the small harbor. Our last stop is in a winery where you can enjoy a guided tour and taste some of the wines produced in this region.

Algarve: Carvoerio and Benagil Walking Tour and Cruise

10. Algarve: Carvoerio and Benagil Walking Tour and Cruise

If you want to get closer to nature join us on a walking tour through some of the most beautiful scenery in the Algarve – the 7 hanging valleys trail, followed by a fantastic cruise to visit the famous Benagil caves. This scenic route is situated in Carvoeiro area and offers a string of notable stops at Benagil and Carvalho beaches, among others. The walk takes place along the top of coastal cliffs defined by deeply sculpted shapes and beautiful ocher and golden Cliffs. The walk is led by an experienced guide. At the end of the walk you will have free time in Ferragudo to have a snack or just walk around. Our next Experience is the visit to the beautiful grottoes of the Algarve in our comfortable boats! We depart from Portimão and cruise at ease towards Algar Seco and Benagil we will take you into different grottoes, where you will find natural rock formations that have been formed due to the sea and wind erosion to amaze us with their beauty. Relax and enjoy the beautiful coastal scenery along the way…

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What people are saying about Algar Seco

Overall rating

4.7 / 5

based on 917 reviews

This guided hike for Seven Hanging Valleys was excellent. Nuno and his wife Sandra were on time at the pickup point. I felt very lucky as I was the only person booked for it. It surprised me that they didn’t cancel. Nuno was the guide, while Sandra would meet us at the other end. Nuno’s knowledge and enthusiasm was contagious. He was patient while I took pictures and if I wanted to take a break it was not a problem. I never felt rushed as he matched his pace to mine. I won’t tell but there was a surprise at the end…… Great couple….wonderful day!

Tony was ar The time. That’s very lovely man. He show beautiful , amazing space and views in Albufeira area. I and my family it’s very thankful for that trip. I heartily recommend using Tuk Tuk and driver Tony.

This is an amazing boat tour. We went inside caves that we could never have imagined. Incredible navigation. Loved the local knowledge and guidance. Highly recommended. Thanks for the memories.

The whole journey was smooth and enjoyable. we only wished we could have got off the boat and gone into the caves but the waves were definitely not allowing that!

I found the staff absolutely lovely, kind, and friendly. was really good with my toddeler was only two and run out of patience on the way back.