The Ria Formosa Natural Park, a mosaic of barrier islands, winding channels, and shimmering salt flats, is a wildlife sanctuary and a natural treasure of the Algarve. This paradise, stretching for 60 km along the coast, is much more than a picturesque landscape; it is a vital ecosystem teeming with life and ecological significance. It serves as a nursery for countless marine species, a nesting site for protected birds, and a natural barrier that shields the coast from erosion. Its salt marshes and mudflats are essential for water purification and maintaining the ecosystem’s quality.
However, beneath this beauty lies an inherent fragility. Climate change, pollution, and development pressures threaten this paradise. Rising sea levels, intensifying storms, and saltwater intrusion are just some of the challenges Ria Formosa faces. It is our responsibility to protect this natural treasure and ensure its preservation for future generations. By valuing Ria Formosa, we are safeguarding an invaluable heritage—a legacy of beauty and biodiversity that inspires us to care for our planet.
1
Follow the marked trails.
2
Respect the local inhabitants , their way of life , and local traditions.
3
Keep your distance from animals , do not feed them , observe them with binoculars .
4
Find out which season is best for hiking . In principle, from February to April and the beginning of autumn are the most suitable periods.
5
Prefer photographic memories. Do not collect plants, rocks, or wild animals.
6
Respect the signage of the Ria Formosa Natural Park.
7
Trails should be used by small groups at a time, as an excess of visitors can cause erosion and the destruction of important habitats.
8
Do not make fires, use flashlights and bring appropriate clothing for the season.
9
Each visitor is responsible for the garbage and waste produced; deposit it in the appropriate places.
10
Picnics should be held in the designated picnic areas within the Ria Formosa Natural Park. Therefore, before starting your visit, check their locations. Never make a fire outside these areas.
11
Use the existing caravan parks. Overnight stays in unauthorized locations are prohibited in Portugal and subject to a fine.
12
Practice nature tourism activities in authorized places and with all safety conditions; be accompanied by duly accredited tourist animation companies.
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