Berlenga Island Small-Group Day Trip from Lisbon
Recommended by 93% of travelers
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Lisbon, Portugal
- 10 hours (approx.)
- Mobile ticket
- Offered in: English
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Overview
Swap the busy city for the serene Berlenga Grande, a scenic island in the Berlengas Nature Reserve, on this small-group day trip. See a side of Portugal many visitors miss and heighten your chance of spotting local wildlife with your guide. On arrival, visit St. John the Baptist Fort and take a guided stroll along the pathways of the UNESCO-listed Biosphere Reserve. Then, take a glass-bottom boat excursion through Berlenga Grande’s caves.
- Visit off-the-beaten-path places that most travelers miss
- Enjoy free time to swim, snorkel, or relax on the beach
- A glass-bottom boat lets you admire marine life without getting wet
- A small-group experience promises personalized attention
What's Included
- Expert guide
- Transport by air-conditioned minivan
- Round-trip boat trip
- Use of Snorkeling equipmentUse of Snorkelling equipment
- Glass-bottom boat excursion
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Kayak ride at the island
Meeting and Pickup
Meeting point
- MangoPraça dos Restauradores 17-24, 1250-187 Lisboa, Portugal
The meeting point is in front of the MANGO clothing Store, in Restauradores Square.
End point
This activity ends back at the meeting point.Operating hours.8:00 am
Itinerary
Meet your guide in central Lisbon and depart for the charming fishing village of Peniche in a climate-controlled vehicle. On arrival, board a boat for the crossing to Berlenga Grande, an island characterized by secluded caverns and twisting rock formations.
After your boat drops anchor at the island’s port, enjoy some free time to pick up refreshments or stretch your legs with a stroll on the beach. Then, board a smaller boat destined for St. John the Baptist Fort, a 17th-century fortress built from the ruins of an old monastery.
Explore the stronghold with your guide and hear stories of invasions and pirate sieges. Then, uncover the island’s flora and fauna on a walk through the Berlengas Nature Reserve.
Back at port, break for lunch at one of the seafront eateries (own expense) or, if you've brought food with you, have a picnic on the beach.
When the time comes, join back up with your group for the included cave kayaking excursion. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a less demanding activity, explore the caves in a glass-bottom boat.
After, travel back to Lisbon, where your tour concludes with drop-off at the starting point.
After your boat drops anchor at the island’s port, enjoy some free time to pick up refreshments or stretch your legs with a stroll on the beach. Then, board a smaller boat destined for St. John the Baptist Fort, a 17th-century fortress built from the ruins of an old monastery.
Explore the stronghold with your guide and hear stories of invasions and pirate sieges. Then, uncover the island’s flora and fauna on a walk through the Berlengas Nature Reserve.
Back at port, break for lunch at one of the seafront eateries (own expense) or, if you've brought food with you, have a picnic on the beach.
When the time comes, join back up with your group for the included cave kayaking excursion. Alternatively, if you’d prefer a less demanding activity, explore the caves in a glass-bottom boat.
After, travel back to Lisbon, where your tour concludes with drop-off at the starting point.
Praca Dos Restauradores (Pass By)
Estacao Do Rossio (Pass By)
Avenida da Liberdade (Pass By)
Estatua do Marques de Pombal (Pass By)
1
Fortaleza de Peniche, Portugal
30 minutes • Admission Ticket Not Included
Baleal Beach (Pass By)
Cabo Carvoeiro (Pass By)
Berlengas (Pass By)
2
Berlenga Grande Island
4 hours • Admission Ticket Free
Castelo de Obidos (Pass By)
Additional Info
- Confirmation will be received at time of booking
- Not wheelchair accessible
- IMPORTANT: From the 1st June of 2022, local authorities are implementing a population control to the island that requires a previous visa. Therefore, we need you to send us the following data for all participants: Name, Country, ID number (an ID you can show locally if requested).
- Infant seats available
- Not recommended for travelers with back problems
- No heart problems or other serious medical conditions
- Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level
- Wear comfortable clothing and footwear
- This tour/activity will have a maximum of 24 travelers
Supplied by
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
Traveler Photos
Featured review
Armando_B
Had a great time, the ride to the island was. Little rough. However it was totally worth it the island was amazing the waters were crystal clear. The fort was awesome and also i would 1000% recommend you try the restaurant. I had a bluefin tuna and it was probably the best dish I’ve had the whole trip.
Reviews
4.7
based on 227 reviews
Anna_D, Sep 2025
BEAUTIFUL site. If you’re looking for “off the beaten path” this is for you!! Our guide Nuno was very informative and knowledgeable about the history of the area.
It’s a gorgeous little surprise of an island and not very crowded. What they do NOT tell you is the hike is quite steep so quite challenging (our guide Nino was great and did stop often) so you have to be moderately fit. The glass bottom tour was AMAZING but a bit short wish we could spend more time out in the water. The caves are gorgeous. There is a little beach but the water is a bit cold. GOURGOUS ISLAND with crystal clear blue green water
Steve_H, Sep 2025
This was a fairly poor tour. It started off with them pushing off the start time by 1:15. They had sent an email via viator chat that had the 8am start time as part of the chat, but buried in the details they had said be at the start point by 915. They didnt highlight that this was a change. And when we emailed them just before 8, we didnt receive a response till 830 that yes they had changed it. There were a couple of others on the trip and they all had shown up at 8 as well, so not an isolated communication problem. Then there was an hour ride to the boat dock, and then an hour plus out to the island. We had been told that we might get a little wet on the ride out there and the original instructions mentioned that some people get sea sick. Well the little bit wet wasnt just a little spray. we all got completely soaked head to toe and were all freezing. I heard mulitiple people getting sea sick and there were barf bags at every seat, so this was obviously a common occurance. When we got to the island we realized the other boats that come to the islands are big cats which would have been way more stable in those seas. So we get to the island and we do a big hike up and then down to the fortress. Im glad i was carrying my beach shoes as im not sure i could have hiked that in my beach shoes. The fortress was kind od interesting. Then we got on a glass bottom boat, we were the last on so we were facing backwards while they nosed into a few caves which we really couldnt see. Then we went back to the main dock, they never pointed out any fish or coral in the glass bottom boat so i dont know what the purpose of that was. We get back to the main dock and we have several hours to do whatever on our own. So we went to lay out at the cute beach. After 20 minutes the tide came in and we were scrambling with everyone else to find someplace dry. There is also no shade on the island unless you are buying something from the resteraunt or snack bar.
Response from Host, Sep 2025
Hi, Steve!
Thanks so much for your feedback.
We're deeply sorry you had a less positive experience.
Regarding start times, boat schedules vary depending on high/low season. We always inform the correct pickup time, together with our advice (including comfortable shoes) and all necessary details.
Last Monday the sea was rough and the boat ride was rocky. However, both our guide and the boat crew recommended you and the others to get shelter in the boat cabin. You chose not to.
There are several options to get to the island, but we assure you we use the best available. Catamarans are clearly not comfortable on these days, we assure you, and this boat is the one which allows you to enjoy Berlengas Island the best, as it stays at the island for 5 hours (comparing to others that only allow you 3 hours at the island).
From our point of view, the island is gorgeous and spectacular. Sometimes (mostly when the sea is bigger or rocky) visibility underwater is very poor, and therefor the glass-bottomed boat is not as nice as on a clear water day, but that's just natural.
Usually, our guests enjoy having some free time to swim, sunbath, snorkel, etc. With the high tide, we locals prefer to stay in the peer instead of the beach, and jump in the water directly.
Anyway, we hope you enjoyed your stay in Portugal and hope you'll return someday.
Sharen_H, Sep 2025
Our guide was fantastic. There is an open water trip to the island, may need Dramamine if you are susceptible.
Barbara_S, Sep 2025
Ferry trip out was a little rough Rest was smooth sailing! Knowledgeable guide an entertaining- Diogo.
Brittany_L, Sep 2025
This island is one of the most beautiful places we have ever been. The color of the water was unreal and being able to hike around the island and being able to explore such a vibrant place. Ferry ride over was quite rocky so if you are prone to sea sickness, that is something to be aware of. Great seafood on the island!
Christopher_C, Sep 2025
Have your camera ready cause the views are iconic. The ride there is choppy but we'll worth it once you're on the island. By the way, there is shade no where so I recommend an umbrella or tons of sun block. Besides that, the views are absolutely worthy of every cent it takes to go ghere.
Lisa_D, Sep 2025
Couldn't have asked for a better tour! It was an amazing day full of breath taking views! Our guide Diego was amazing and you can tell his love for his country. Highly recommend!
Christina_K, Aug 2025
A fantastic organized trip to Berlengas! Everything was taken care of and we were given ample time to explore and enjoy the island!
Ashley_T, Aug 2025
I don’t think I recall the hiking part, but it wasn’t bad! I thought the water would be warmer the weather was perfect and NuNu was amazing! This was not recommended to me, I just found it and I was nervous, but I’m so glad I gave it a shot. Thanks
Lauramcdel, Aug 2025
Amazing day. Excellent food. Our guide Newnew was amazing and knowledgeable. Would highly recommend this day
Armando_B, Aug 2025
Had a great time, the ride to the island was. Little rough. However it was totally worth it the island was amazing the waters were crystal clear. The fort was awesome and also i would 1000% recommend you try the restaurant. I had a bluefin tuna and it was probably the best dish I’ve had the whole trip.
RosaMaria_S, Aug 2025
Worthy! The place is fantastic. LOVELY day trip from Lisbon if you happen to stay there. Our guide, João, was very reliable. 10 out of 10 overall experience.
Robert_A, Aug 2025
They never showed up. I wasted my money booking the tour that day was so looking for and they never showed up and they don’t have a customer service number
Response from Host, Aug 2025
Dear Robert:
We are very sorry you decided not to participate on the tour. We sent you an email with the pickup timing at 8h15. When we called you at 8h20, you told us you had left already and were quite mad with everything.
The other 6 participants had no problems going on the tour, even if some also thought the departure was at 8h00.
It is obvious from all other reviews that WE DO show up.
After so many communications with our office, which was always responsive and even alerted you that you had booked an extra person not necessary, we can't understand your attitude today.
This tour runs every weekday with plenty of satisfied travelers...we really don't understand why you are so frustrated with us.
You're welcome to join the tour anytime. Just contact our office.
Thanks for everything,
Gil
Around Lisbon Team
Gabrielle_S, Jul 2025
Best trip in Lisbon so far. We had very rough seas on the way over, I was regretting the trip….until I had been on the island 3 minutes. Everything went away when I saw the beauty. I have travelled the world, and this was top 5 for me. The views of the sea are some of the best. Our guide Nuno was AMAZING. His passion for the country and island shines through everything. We walked to the Fort, took the glass bottom boat, ate an amazing lunch (to my surprise as there is nothing on the island other than 1 little place) and then rented kayaks. The kayaks are a must but please only rent kayaks if you are in great physical condition. The head wind on the way back to the beach is no joke. Several kayaks got towed in…but I would still do it again. Makes for great stories and memories. Thanks Nuno for the great day!
Megan_V, Jul 2025
This tour was absolutely lovely. Nuno was an incredible guide whose passion for Portugal’s history and Berlenga island made it an unforgettable experience. If you are traveling solo (or not) this is the tour for you. It was the perfect way to spend a day by the sea, swimming and soaking up the sunshine whilst surrounded by stunning scenery.
Lauren_Y, Jul 2025
Bus didn’t pick us up until 8:15, which was a little unnerving but aside from that, it was the best day! Learned lots of info on the ride there and found the boat ride beautiful. It was definitely very choppy, so plan accordingly. The terrain is difficult to navigate, so wear gym shoes! The restaurant and bar on the island were very accommodating and the cave/boat tour was short and sweet! Our guide, Nuno, was incredibly kind and efficient!
Michelle_K, Jul 2025
A great day and so glad we chose to do it. Small hiccups with the van, but our guide Nuno was fantastic, always available and helpful. Perfect outing to get away from the city for a bit.
Asma_H, Jul 2025
This was such a nice way to finish my trip to Portugal. Diogo our guide was great and knew souch about the island and Portugal in general so we learned a lot. I definitely recommend this toir especially if you are traveling solo.
Eli_P, Jul 2025
The kind of magical trip you won't forget. I almost don't want to leave this review because I want to keep this place to myself, but Diego was such a great guide that I owe him the five stars.
Donna_T, Jun 2025
The trip was wonderful’. The best part for us was the glass bottom boat cave tour. Water beautiful greens and blue. Although cold to swim. Do suggest that a meal be included with this trip at the restaurant. Our guide Diogo was great!
Tor_H, May 2025
Wonderful experience for both me and my wife. The island was beautiful, and our giude was excellent with extraordinary knowledge about the island and also Lisbon and the surroundings. Highly recommended.
Vidhi_J, Oct 2024
Great day. Amazing guide who went above & beyond. Well-arranged. Beautiful island. Loved the boat ride to Berlenga Grande. Highly recommended!
Haley_N, Sep 2024
Can’t say enough about this excursion, it was our favorite thing we did in Portugal! Very cool to get some insight into this tiny island. We enjoyed the beautiful views and swimming in the crystal clear (very cold) water! Nuno was extremely passionate about the island which made us love it even more. Would definitely recommend for a fun day trip from Lisbon.
Renata_C, Sep 2024
Highly recommended. One of the Kind experience for nature, adventure and historical interest lovers.
Sujatha_S, Sep 2024
Went there for our wedding anniversary! It was a beautiful day , loved the island . The experience was brilliant our guide Nunu was brilliant
jasmom1, Aug 2024
I had an extra day in Lisbon after spending two full day there as well as going to the The Algarve for three nights. I wanted to see more of the Portugal coast and this is an exceptional sight--particularly if you are not going to The Algarve. Berlenga Island has all the drama and caves of the southern coast!! The only negative --and I do not get seasick--it is a rocky and often cold ONE HOUR crossing from Peniche to the island. Our guide did offer the group motion sickness pills and it is definitely something you need to consider if. you suffer. Our guide, Joao, had good information all day and offered us options to snorkel or hike on the island. We had. a lovely lunch at the restaurant there--excellent seafood and boarded a glass bottom boat to go into the caves. The tour is a one hour drive from Lisbon to Peniche and then then one hour boat ride (bring a sweatshirt!!). The tour will drop you back in Lisbon. I loved this day and highly recommend this tour --especially if you are not going south!!
Karen_Z, Aug 2024
This Berlenga Island trip was a great family trip. Nunu was an awesome guide who knows the timing of the activities very well. He gave us the lunch options when we arrived and made the reservation so that a table was ready for our group of 7 at the perfect time. The kids loved jumping into the water and swimming. You get history, nature, scenery, hiking, nature, swimming and the glass bottom boat tour on this trip. The variety and activity is great for families. We did follow the advice to bring some seabands and ginger pills for the boat ride to the island which seemed to work.
Michelle_B, Aug 2024
What an experience we shared!! Even with the weather not being our friend it was such a great experience. From the beginning you will never forget Nu Nu he has so much knowledge of his country and he treats you like family from the very beginning. I will say that this hike is not for the faint of heart, but it is also so rewarding. We had food at the restaurant, and it was also good. the cave tour by boat was a nice ending to a glorious day when the sun finally came out and then left us again!! By the end of the day we had a lovely family bonding experience. Get Nu Nu!!
Edita_P, Aug 2024
The trip was amazing, beautiful Island, nature😍we had amazing day, food +beach +good weather😊our "DONI" guide was just perfect🌹thank u Doni, we gona remember this trip for long
jordan_h, Aug 2024
An unforgettable experience! Berlenga Island was the perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. The island’s natural beauty is breathtaking, with clear waters and stunning landscapes.
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